Donald Trump says he will consider buying the Bills
The man who once convinced his fellow USFL owners to move their league's schedule to the fall to compete directly with the NFL - a decision that killed the USFL - says he's interested in an NFL ownership bid.
Noted rich guy Donald Trump revealed in a radio interview Tuesday that he has been approached about a bid to buy the Buffalo Bills and is considering the proposal.
"People have actually talked to me about the Bills," Trump told WBEN radio in Buffalo, N.Y., via ESPN.com. "I mean, the group of people called me -- would I be interested in investing, and I'll take a look at it. I mean, I look at a lot of things. I'll take a look at it."
Buffalo Bills owner Ralph Wilson died last week and the Bills are reportedly set to be sold to the highest bidder.
It's unclear if Trump is referencing recent conversations he's had about buying the Bills or if he's simply recalling a discussion from years ago. Rumors that Trump might attempt to purchase the Bills alongside retired quarterback Jim Kelly have been around for years.
Of course, it must be mentioned that there are several large hurdles Trump will have to overcome before being granted ownership of the Bills. First, there are rumors he doesn't have nearly as much money as he wants everyone to think he has. If an ownership bid involving Trump actually happens, he may be merely a minority partner.
There's also the matter of Trump's reputation. He is reviled by many for his controversial statements and beliefs, as well as his attention-seeking behaviors. Convincing the NFL's 31 other owners that he would have a positive impact on the league could be nearly impossible.
Trump seems to know he is facing an uphill battle, and he's working hard not to make any more enemies - especially not enemies in Western New York. Trump insisted he would keep the Bills in Buffalo if he were in charge of the team.
"I know so many people in Buffalo, and they have asked me about looking at that and I certainly would look at it, but I would ... if it were me, I'd keep the team in Buffalo," he said. "I think it's something that is really vital to the area. ... It would be catastrophic, in my opinion, if Buffalo lost the Buffalo Bills."