‘"It’s too bad," Modrak said. "It’s a great town and great fan base. It was just timing. [The Bears’ search] just kept going on."’
BillsBeat - June 5, 2001
Phillips narrows GM candidates to three
‘Modrak, former Philadelphia Eagles director of football operations, was thought to be the frontrunner for the job. But they talked earlier Monday and Modrak told Phillips he didn’t think he was the right fit for the job.’
Offseason Overview: Buffalo Bills
‘The Bills will likely need to make more cuts after June 1 to clear cap space to sign their 12 rookies. Running back Jonathan Linton and offensive lineman Victor Allotey were released and more moves may follow.’
Modrak withdraws name from Chicago GM race, agrees to join Bills staff
‘From the start, Modrak had told friends he was uncomfortable with a process that included an interview with Russell Reynolds and Associates, a Manhattan executive search firm.’
Modrak to join Bills' personnel
‘Yesterday, Modrak withdrew his name from consideration to become general manager of the Chicago Bears. Instead, he is expected to accept Donahoe’s standing offer of an undisclosed high-level front office position with the Buffalo Bills, likely heading up the team’s college scouting department.’
BillsBeat - June 4, 2001
Cottrell's Approach Has Calming Effect
‘"A lot of coaches, in their attempts to reach us, are out of touch," said Wiley, now with the San Diego Chargers. "They don’t know the language. He knows all those things. He knows what we’re thinking about. He was definitely like one of the guys, but not just like a private like we are. He was definitely a general."’
Former Bills RB Smith reaches crux of career
‘"Antowain needs the right fit and it was the not right fit in Buffalo. He’s not Thurman Thomas, he’s not shifty like that. But Mr. Wilson could never make that connection."’
BillsBeat - June 3, 2001
Linton among Bills cuts
‘The Buffalo Bills’ offensive backfield got even younger after they released multipurpose running back Jonathan Linton on Friday.’
Moore charged with aggravated assault
‘Though no motive has been determined for Moore being shot, the Sun reported Moore was arrested recently in Haywood County and charged with aggravated assault. Moore was allegedly involved in a May 15 incident where a man was hit with a beer bottle, Blackburn told the Sun. Moore was released on bond.’
Kelly Wall ceremony Nov. 18
‘Quarterback Jim Kelly’s name will go on the Buffalo Bills Wall of Fame on Nov. 18, the team announced Saturday…Individual game tickets for 2001 will go on sale on July 14.’
Bills press the flesh for image's sake
‘The organization that for years seemed barely able to suffer the Western New York community, whose marketing approach might have been summed up as "The Bills: Love Us or We’re Leaving," has changed its tune.’
BillsBeat - June 2, 2001
Linton could merit solid interest in free agency
‘By releasing Linton, the Bills saved $512,000. They received rebates of $418,000 apiece on two other players who were cut loose, cornerback Ray Hill and offensive lineman Victor Allotey.
Linton could merit solid interest in free agency, because he is a big back with some speed, and has been a part-time starter in the past.’
Moore OK after shooting incident
‘The bullet was lodged in soft tissue and can safely be left in Moore’s leg permanently if he chooses…’.
Bills draft profile: DT Ron Edwards
‘Here is the draft profile of recently signed defensive tackle, Ron Edwards.’
Camp won't be a vacation anymore
‘Former Bills coaches Marv Levy and Wade Phillips weren’t big fans of heavy offseason contact. In fact, they did so little hitting their training camps often were referred to as Club Med. Those days are over. New coach Gregg Williams is bringing a more physical attitude to his first training camp this summer. In other words, expect to see plenty of hitting with full pads.’