The
AFL Buffalo Bills were known for their dominating defense but their back
to back AFL titles would never have been possible without a top notch signal
caller. During their first few seasons, the Bills defense ranked among
the best, but it wasn't until 1962, when the Bills acquired Jack Kemp,
that the Bills started to win. Sid Gillman, coach and GM for the San Diego Chargers, tried to sneak the injured Kemp through waivers to make room for another roster spot. The sharp eyed Bills scouting dept. took note of this and claimed Kemp for the sum of $100, much to the dismay of Gillman and Kemp.
Kemp, being a native Californian, didn't like the idea of playing football in balmy Buffalo, let alone dilapidated War Memorial Stadium. After arriving though, he soon changed his attitude.
With Kemp at the helm, the Bills won 2 AFL titles and made the playoffs in 4 straight years. Jack Kemp ranks 3rd on the all-time Bills list for TD passes with 77, behind Jim Kelly and Joe Ferguson.
After finishing his playing career, "Quarterback Jack Kemp" became "Congressman Jack Kemp." He later served as Housing Secretary for President George Bush and ran for Vice President in 1996. Some feel it's only a matter of time before Jack Kemp becomes the 1st. Buffalo Bill to become President of the United States.
Back to: The AFL Years