In a rather interesting move the Buffalo Bills have given their general manager Doug Whaley a multi-year contract extension according to the NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.
Extension for #Bills GM Doug Whaley is a multi-year deal, source said. Long-term, not 1-year band-aid. Answers questions about an ultimatum.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 10, 2016
Bills co-owner Kim Pegula later tweeted “We have agreed to a contract extension with Doug Whaley!” She also later tweeted “We had a great end of year meetings with Russ,Rex and Doug and are already working on next season. #LetsGoBills”.
Ian Rapoport also reported that this extension should solidify the Rex Ryan-Doug Whaley partnership. This is a somewhat of a shocking move as just at the end of the season Terry Pegula said it’s playoffs or bust for the Bills.
Doug Whaley was the former assistant general manager for the Bills from 2010-2013, before succeeding the retiring Buddy Nix as general manager in 2014. Whaley has made his mark on the Bills roster by drafting Sammy Watkins, Robert Woods, Ronald Darby among others and an infamous draft pick of E.J. Manuel. He has also traded for LeSean McCoy and Jerry Hughes. A noticeable free agent signing happened this year when he signed quarterback Tyrod Taylor. Whaley certainly has been responsible for building the current Bills roster.
Prior to coming to Buffalo, Whaley spent ten years working for the Pittsburgh Steelers where he was their pro-personnel co-ordinator. He was mostly known for his great scouting in defensive players. During his time he has been credited as being influential in the Steelers draft picks of players such as LaMarr Woodley, Lawrence Timmons and Troy Polamalu.
It is unknown at this time if Terry Pegular still feels that it is still playoffs or bust for the Bills, or if this contract extension gives Doug Whaley more job security. The question can also be asked if the situation is the same for Rex Ryan and his job security?
