Archives for May 2, 2014

‘Whether it be Jacobs, Golisano, Rich, Pegula, a group headed by former Bills quarterback Jim Kelly or a combination of the aforementioned, the long-term viability of the team in the region will hinge on the stadium issue-whether a new one should be built or whether the Ralph should be renovated even further. This issue will not be easily resolved because taxpayers undoubtedly will be asked to foot a good chunk of the building or renovation costs. That won’t be an easy sell, given that it would amount to corporate welfare in a region with a poor economic climate.’

‘”There’s a delicate balance there,” Whaley said. “You want to get somebody who can come in and contribute right away, but you also have one eye open for the future. It’s nothing that’s going to weigh on us heavily and say ‘we have to do this because of the future.’ But you’re definitely cognizant of what’s going on after this year.”‘

‘”The biggest thing I want to improve on is becoming more of a leader, taking more command of this offence,” Manuel said by phone from Orchard Park, N.Y., during Week 2 of the Bills’ voluntary team off-season training regime. “That’s a broad statement but I really mean it.”‘

‘Whaley sounded confident in the gains his club made in their first year and there is no question that the addition of free agents Chris Williams (OG), Brandon Spikes (MLB), Keith Rivers (OLB) and trade for talented wideout Mike Williams boost the talent on the roster. To make the jump out of the AFC East cellar, however, Manuel will have to show significant improvement in his second season in the NFL. The Bills could help him in that endeavor by giving him more weapons, as well as help along the line of scrimmage.’

‘Two people familiar with discussions confirmed Milstein’s interest as a prospective owner and keeping the franchise in western New York. The people spoke to The Associated Press on Thursday on the condition of anonymity because Milstein hasn’t publicly revealed his intentions.’

‘A source, who had a lengthy conversation with Milstein just this week, tells our Scott Brown that Milstein is “absolutely interested” in buying the Bills and that if he were successful, he would “definitely” keep the team in Western New York.’