In a move expected my most, and hoped for by many Bills fans, the Buffalo Bills organization announced earlier today that they have fired head coach Chan Gailey, as well as his entire coaching staff.
In the initial release, the team said, "The Buffalo Bills today are announcing that Chan Gailey has been relieved of his duties as the team’s head coach."
In a news conference, Gailey declined to answer questions from the media. Instead, he read a prepared statement:
"First thing I wanted to say is thanks to the Bills organization, to Buddy (General Manager Buddy Nix) and (owner) Mr. Wilson for the opportunity. I understand this is a business. We didn't get the job done. I've been called two other times to get things turned around, was able to do it, we weren't able to get this one soon enough and I understand that completely.
“I want to thank the fans, great Buffalo fans, great football town. These are loyal, loyal fans and I understand that. I think that the next staff will have a great opportunity for success and to make this another great football franchise. This'll probably be, and I say probably, but I think it will be the first place that's ever fired me that I'll pull for. Thank you."
Multiple Bills players tweeted their well wishes. There’s no question Gailey was liked, but unfortunately he could not get enough out of his players, and his offensive play calling abilities came under heavy fire as the season was slowly lost.
Running Back C.J. Spiller: “Just wanna say thanks to coach Gailey for believing in me 3 yrs ago with that 9th pick in draft made my dream as a kid become a reality.”
Wide Receiver David Nelson: "Just want to say thank you to Coach Gailey. He believed in me when not many else did. Gave me a shot to live my dream. Thank you Coach."
Wide Receiver Donald Jones: "Like to thank chan gailey n his staff for giving me the opportunity to b in this league. Sorry things didn't work out."
Fullback Corey McIntyre: "Wanna take time to say thank u to Coach Gailey and his staff for everything and I wish them much success in the future."
Center Eric Wood: "Going to miss Coach Gailey. He is a great man and I thank him so much for sticking by me thru my injuries."
Wide Receiver Stevie Johnson: "At the end of the day it is a business. I'm happy he came here and I was able to get that opportunity from him. My feelings about coach Gailey is always good. He gave me the opportunity, he gave me chances."
Comments