Wednesday, January 10
Cottrell would like the opportunity



ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. -- With Wade Phillips out as Buffalo coach the question now becomes: Who's in?

If some of the Bills have any say, it will be defensive coordinator Ted Cottrell.

"He's knows the system, he has all the tools, he has the experience," Pro Bowl nose tackle Ted Washington said. "He's been around this business a long time and I think he's ready to step up and be a head coach. So, hopefully, it'll go to Ted Cottrell."

Phillips was fired Sunday night by Bills owner Ralph Wilson with a year remaining on his contract. Phillips was 29-19 in three seasons with Buffalo. However, the Bills finished 8-8 this season and missed the playoffs. Wilson said Phillips' refusal to fire special teams coach Ronnie Jones led to his dismissal.

Former Pittsburgh executive Tom Donahoe accepted the Bills offer to become the team's general manager on Wednesday.

General managers often bring in their own coaches. While Cottrell doesn't have a relationship with Donahoe, former head coaches who do include Dom Capers and Chan Gailey. Both worked with Donahoe with the Steelers and both have been mentioned as strong candidates for the Buffalo job.

Current University of Pittsburgh coach Walt Harris has also been mentioned.

Still, Cottrell, who has spent three seasons as Bills defensive coordinator and planned to interview with the expansion Houston Texans, said he would appreciate some consideration.

"You would always like the opportunity, no question, but that's up to Mr. Wilson," Cottrell said. "I'm not lobbying for the Buffalo job."

Under Cottrell's guidance, Buffalo finished as the No. 1 defense in the league in 1999, setting team records for fewest points, touchdowns, total yards and first downs allowed in a season.

This season, the Bills finished third despite losing four starters, including Bruce Smith, in the offseason, then five more to injuries during the season.

In addition to his coaching ability, Cottrell's affable demeanor toward both his players and the media is considered a strength.

"You couldn't get a better combination of a good coach, motivator and one you respect," Buffalo defensive end Marcellus Wiley said. "Ted can get on your case and make you play to another level. Hopefully, that's what Mr. Wilson takes into account when looking for a new head coach. There are lots of names floating out there, but who cares? I think we've got one of the best candidates right here at home."




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 ESPN's Chris Mortensen reports with further developments regarding Buffalo's GM vacancy.
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