NFL commissioner Roger Goodell has suggested that the Buffalo Bills need a new stadium in order to remain competitive.
The American football team has played at New Era Field since 1973 and the stadium is among the oldest in the NFL. The Bills’ owners, Pegula Sports & Entertainment, last year hired strategic consulting firm CAA ICON to assess a potential new stadium for the team, as well as renovations for KeyBank Center, home of the Sabres NHL ice hockey franchise.
Earlier this year, the Bills canvassed opinions from supporters on whether the team should build a new stadium or renovate New Era Field. The team’s lease deal to play at New Era Field expires in 2023.
The results of CAA ICON’s study are set to be revealed later in the summer, which would provide more clarity on the Bills’ plans. Goodell has previously stated that Buffalo needs to “stay up” with modern NFL facilities and he has reiterated the need for the Bills to consider their options.
“The reason why I’m supportive is because I want to make sure this franchise remains stable here, and continues, and remains competitive,” Goodell said, according to Buffalo News.
“And I think it’s great for this community. And we’ve been able to do these stadiums in such a way that it creates a tremendous economic benefit, too. I want the Bills to be successful and I want them to continue to be competitive here in Buffalo.”
Image: Buffalo Bills
