Before hiring the man former Steelers coach Bill Cowher recommended for the job, the Buffalo Bills wanted Cowher.
On Tuesday, Cowher spoke for the first time about the courtship.
“I have tremendous respect for Buffalo,” Cowher told Tim Graham of ESPN.com. “We had some talks. It didn’t really go that far. I couldn’t make the commitment. I have tremendous respect for [Bills owner] Ralph Wilson. I think it’s a tremendous fan base. I think it’s a golden opportunity for Chan Gailey.
“It just wasn’t the right time and place. I pretty much go with a gut feel when I make decisions like that. I think it through, but there was nothing specific. It’s a class organization.”
Cowher was expected to return to coaching in 2010, but fewer jobs than expected were available. Former Steelers running back Jerome Bettis has said that he believes Cowher will be the next coach of the Giants.