Bills fans think about Wilson's health

ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. (WIVB) - Many Bills fans are thinking about Ralph Wilson’s heath. Thursday, the longtime team owner was admitted to a hospital in Detroit.

Ralph Wilson is still in the hospital, but he seems to be doing well. Officials say he's listed in good condition. But still many worry that if he takes a turn for the worse, what could happen to the future of the Buffalo Bills?

Ralph Wilson was cutting a ribbon at a ceremony at the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton earlier this month. News 4's Lou Raguse was there as the 93-year-old team owner was honored with the Ralph Wilson Junior Pro Football Research and Preservation Center.

Wilson needed a little help getting around that day. And now just weeks later he's hospitalized.

East Aurora resident Jake Smith said, “It's sad. Ever since I was a kid, he's been the icon of the Buffalo Bills.”

Wilson has a mild infection and is listed in good condition. But the hospitalization comes at a critical time for the franchise. The Bills lease is up next July.

But the question remains if Wilson unexpectedly passes, who will own the team and will it go to another city?

Former Erie County Executive Dennis Gorski helped quarterback a stadium improvement deal back in 1998.

Gorski said, “Whether it's sold to another party or whether it stays in some type of construct developed by Mr. Wilson. The bottom line is the franchise will be here in Buffalo.” Gorski says Wilson's plans for the team will be recognized whether he's present or not.

He says currently officials from Erie County, the sate and the Bills are working together to create an agreement. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell says it's a top priority to create a long-term agreement for the Bill to stay in New York.

Goodell said, “I know they're working hard on it and I'm hopeful they can get something done in the near future.”

But for now the stadium's lease lies in the hands of Wilson. On August 3rd, Wilson said, “I hope that they have as great a time in the game, win or lose, as I have.”

Gorski says Wilson most likely has a plan for what will happen to the Bills when he dies. He says if the team goes up for sale, there's already been a number of people interested in the roughly $900 million franchise.