By PFW staff
Jan. 16, 2008

In the aftermath of Marv Levy agreeing to step down as general manager of the Bills shortly after the completion of the team's season, owner Ralph Wilson opted against appointing a successor. Instead, Wilson gave nominal promotions to three of his top aides — director of pro scouting John Guy, director of college scouting Tom Modrak and executive vice president of business operations Russ Brandon. Their new titles are vice president of pro personnel (Guy), vice president of college scouting (Modrak) and chief operating officer (Brandon).

The PFW spin

Don’t read too much into these “promotions.” For all intents and purposes, their responsibilities and authority with the club remain fairly static, especially Guy and Modrak. Brandon’s realm will be more far-reaching, as he’ll now oversee the entire business side of the organization, but his role in personnel matters remains minimal.

Wilson was pleased with Levy’s egalitarian managerial style, and ensured the status quo by declining to appoint a successor. Under the prior and current setup, Modrak will be primarily responsible for drafting players and Guy will make the free-agent decisions. Also, head coach Dick Jauron is expected to have more of a say in terms of the makeup of the roster.

The Bills have been leery about looking outside the organization to fill key areas since outsider Tom Donahoe’s authoritative persona and failure to produce a playoff team as general manager earned him contempt both within the organization and in the Buffalo community.