Doug Marrone opts out as Bills coach

The Buffalo Bills are searching for a coach after Doug Marrone’s surprise decision to step down after the team’s best finish in a decade. Bills owner Terry Pegula announced Wednesday that Marrone exercised the opt-out clause in his contract. “We are disappointed that Coach Marrone will no longer be an important part of our organization,” Pegula said in a team statement. “We thank him for all of his hard work and leadership during his tenure, and wish him and his family the best with the next chapter in their lives.” Pegula said the team will immediately begin searching for a coach. One candidate might already be on the staff in defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz, who previously spent five seasons coaching the Detroit Lions. The Bills finished 9-7 this season. – AP