Buddy Nix – Buffalo’s New GM

The Buffalo Bills have found their new General Manager in an old face, Buddy Nix.  Although it is not a popular choice it is good news for those who are fans of the Buffalo Bills.  Nix who was instrumental in the construction of the very successful Bills teams of the early 90’s as well as the San Diego Chargers from 2003-2007.  Nix came back to Buffalo and was given the role of National Scout back in February after a brief stint in retirement.  

The Nix hiring was interesting because there was very little inclination that he was even considered the front runner for the job.  Having a GM in place now is a good move for Buffalo, as the new GM will want to have as much time possible to evaluate the talent on this squad.  But as Buffalo continues to search for it’s next head coach they have written off anyone who was looking to have  more involvement in the managerial aspects as well as coaching.  But that is not necessarily a bad thing either.  It is possible that with Mike Shanahan not considering Buffalo, they had to figure out a plan B and realize that they couldn’t just throw money at one person and that the problem would be solved.

Nix brings in a wealth of talent as well as an actual football knowledge, something Russ Brandon did not have.  Although his strength is his ability to scout the college ranks, his ability to evaluate talent should transfer to established players as well.  It will be interesting to see how well he is able to deal with the managerial aspects of the job.  How will he handle contract negotiations?  Can he wine, dine, and sign free agents (a constant problem area for Buffalo).  Most importantly, how will he handle hiring his new coach.  Nix is much more “old school” with his football philosophies and prefers hard nosed, smash mouth players.  Although he has not ruled out bringing back Perry Fewell, he has not endorsed it either.

Although Buffalo and Nix are looking for an established coach they may have to be realistic in realizing the market may not be out there for Buffalo.  Fewell has proven to have an aptitude for coaching at the NFL level and has earned to be seriously looked at to maintain his current role.  Whatever happens, the decision belongs to Nix.