Widow of Ralph Wilson taking over as controlling owner of Bills
Mary Wilson is taking over as the Buffalo Bills’ controlling owner after the death last week of her husband, Ralph Wilson.
Ralph Wilson was the founder and only owner of the franchise. He died March 25 at the age of 95.
The team says “A process will be established at an appropriate time for the sale of the franchise.”
The Bills also announced that CEO Russ Brandon, general manager Doug Whaley and coach Doug Marrone will remain in charge of football operations under the new ownership.
Ralph Wilson founded the Bills when the American Football League began play in 1960 and was a major factor in the merger of the AFL and NFL that was completed in 1970.
He long expressed no desire to leave the team to his family, and this announcement is the first step in what’s likely a lengthy path to new ownership.
The team said in a statement: “This process will ensure that the club complies and is faithful to NFL rules and to its obligations to New York State and Erie County. We plan to have detailed discussions with the NFL, the state and county, and others as we determine the timing and structure of any sales process.”
Around the league
The Baltimore Ravens and tight end Owen Daniels have reached agreement on a one-year contract, pending a physical. … The Cincinnati Bengals signed strong safety Danieal Manning, three days after his release by the Houston Texans. … Veteran fullback John Kuhn has re-signed with the Green Bay Packers, coming to terms on a one-year deal worth just over $1 million. … The New England Patriots have signed safety Patrick Chung. He returns to the team after spending one season in Philadelphia. … The Washington Redskins signed quarterback Colt McCoy, giving them a new potential No. 3 quarterback to replace Rex Grossman, who is a free agent. … The Chicago Bears have agreed to a one-year contract with offensive tackle Eben Britton. The Bears also say safety Chris Conte had shoulder surgery in late March and will likely be out at least until the start of training camp….The Tennessee Titans have agreed to terms on a one-year deal with offensive lineman Eric Olsen….The Miami Dolphins have signed receivers Kevin Cone, Michael Rios and quarterback Jordan Rodgers each to one-year deals.