The Buffalo Bills are gearing up for a thrilling new chapter in their broadcasting history, marking a significant return to FM radio. With the 2026 season in sight, the team has announced a strategic partnership with Cumulus Media, making 97 Rock WGRF-FM their official flagship station. This move signifies a homecoming of sorts, as 97 Rock previously served as the team's flagship from 1998 to 2011.
The partnership extends beyond the station, as the Bills are launching the Buffalo Bills Radio Network, a comprehensive broadcasting initiative. This network will manage all radio broadcasts, including pregame and postgame coverage, promising an immersive experience for fans. The network's reach will extend to Syracuse, with WSKO The Score 1260 as the affiliate, and further stations in Rochester and Southern Ontario are expected to join soon.
Pete Guelli, Bills president of business operations, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, highlighting the team's commitment to delivering a top-tier broadcast experience. He believes this move will strengthen the Bills' connection with fans across New York and Southern Ontario, especially as they transition to their new home, Highmark Stadium.
At the heart of this broadcasting endeavor are familiar faces. Chris Brown, the "Voice of the Bills," returns for his fourth season as the play-by-play announcer. He will be joined by Eric Wood, a former Bills Pro Bowl center, who steps into his seventh season as the color analyst. This dynamic duo brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the team's dynamics.
Adding to the broadcast team is Bills legend Steve Tasker, who will take on the role of sideline reporter. Tasker's extensive network experience, honed during his time as a color commentator and sideline reporter for CBS football telecasts from 1998 to 2018, will undoubtedly enhance the game day coverage. His ability to provide live updates and insightful commentary from the field will bring fans even closer to the action.
The collaboration between Brown, Wood, and Tasker is a testament to their shared passion for delivering an exceptional broadcast. Brown acknowledges the value of their familiarity with each other's work, while Wood expresses his excitement about the opportunity to contribute to the Bills Radio Network and the partnership with 97 Rock. Tasker, a five-time first-team All-Pro, is thrilled to be part of the broadcast team, especially with the prospect of covering the Bills in their new stadium.
Beth Coughlin, Cumulus Media regional vice president, emphasized the significance of this reunion, noting the company's pride in reuniting with the Bills as they embark on a new stadium journey. This partnership, she believes, will elevate the game day experience, uniting two organizations dedicated to excellence, community engagement, and, most importantly, the fans.
In summary, the Buffalo Bills' new broadcasting partnership with Cumulus Media and the launch of the Buffalo Bills Radio Network promise an exciting future for Bills fans. With a talented broadcast team and a strategic approach to radio coverage, the team is poised to create memorable experiences, ensuring that Bills games will continue to captivate audiences for years to come.
