The NFL’s first full-time female coach will have an on-field role with the Bills.
After seven years in an administrative role with the team, Kathryn Smith was named quality control-special teams coach by the Bills Wednesday. Bills Coach Rex Ryan said Smith will be on the field for practices and games and will help run the scout team during practices.
Thursday, Smith thanked Ryan and team owners Terry and Kim Pegula for the oppportunity.
“The amount of attention generated from this announcement in the past 24 hours has been extraordinary,” Smith said in a statement. “However, my focus remains on my job responsibilities and helping the team win.
“I would like to thank my family and friends for all their support. It’s a tremendous honor to become the first full-time female assistant coach in the National Football League and I appreciate Rex Ryan giving me this opportunity based on the merit of my work and commitment to this organization.”
The Bills officially announced her hiring Wednesday night.