The news that the Bills are committed to hiring a football czar is welcome news.  They need one.  The news that they’ve already contacted Mike Shanahan–even better. He’s the type of man the Bills need to steer their football fortunes.

But whether or not they get Shanahan, the important thing is that they’re committed to an overhaul of their football fortunes. They need an experienced football man–whether he’s the general manager or director of football operations–the title doesnt matter. And here are a couple of realistic suggestions for the Bills new football czar.

How about Bruce Allen–George Allen’s son, who spent nine years with the Raiders and the last five years as general manager of the Tampa Bay Bucs. He would get the blessing of Marv Levy.   And Allen built winners in Oakland and Tampa Bay.

Another name–Buffalo native Greg Gabriel, the Bears director of College Scouting the last nine years.  He learned from the Giants great George Young, and he has a total of 28-years of service in the NFL.

Both Gabriel and Allen are solid, respected football men. They’d be affordable.  They’d most likely be interested in the job. And both would come with extensive football contacts and would be able to provide meaningful input into the selection of a coach.

If the Bills land Shanahan, that would be great. But Shanahan figures to attract a couple of other NFL offers. The future of the franchise hangs in the balance.  The Bills have to get to work now and find the right man to steer the ship.