Buffalo Bills Add ESPN New York to Radio Network

Radio Deal Details

The Buffalo Bills announced a new partnership with ESPN New York 1050 on Tuesday morning, revealing 23 affiliates for the 2026 NFL season. The flagship station remains 97 Rock WGRF‑FM, while ESPN New York will serve as an additional broadcast home. Notably, the station’s 880 frequency will not carry Bills games, leaving that signal for other programming. The agreement expands the Bills’ reach across the metropolitan area.

Don La Greca, a longtime ESPN New York afternoon host, once publicly criticized the station for “including the Buffalo Bills on a list” ranking teams’ odds to end New York’s championship drought. Three years after that controversy, the station now becomes the radio home for the Bills, marking a notable shift in its editorial stance. The move reflects the Bills’ growing national profile and the station’s willingness to embrace a team that historically belonged to Buffalo.

Why It Matters For Fans

From the Bills’ perspective, securing additional airtime helps them connect with as many NFL fans as possible, especially those who tune into the New York market. Fans who follow the team through ESPN New York’s programming will gain more game‑day coverage and analysis. The inclusion of ESPN New York also offers a new listening option for fans who prefer the station’s style of commentary. Ultimately, the partnership broadens the audience for Bills content beyond traditional Buffalo channels.

Impact on New York Market

ESPN New York’s decision underscores the Bills’ rising popularity, driven by Josh Allen’s stardom and seven straight playoff appearances. While the Jets and Giants have struggled during much of that stretch, the Bills’ sustained success has given them a foothold in New York’s sports conversation. This is not a sign that the city has fully embraced Buffalo as its football home, but the station likely would not have made the move if the Bills were in a playoff drought or if the Jets and Giants were perennial Super Bowl contenders. The affiliation reinforces the Bills’ status as a national brand while giving New York listeners another outlet for NFL news.

Background on the Teams

The Bills’ recent run of playoff appearances has been a key factor in attracting broader media interest, with Josh Allen emerging as a franchise quarterback on the national stage. In contrast, the Jets and Giants have recorded disappointing seasons during much of that period, leaving a void in New York’s professional football landscape. ESPN New York’s shift from being the Jets’ flagship to joining the Bills’ radio network highlights how on‑field performance can reshape broadcasting partnerships. The deal illustrates the intersection of team success, market expansion, and media strategy in modern professional sports.