Bills Begin Installing Stainless‑Steel Bison Outside New Stadium

Overview

• The Bills released footage this week showing the first of three stainless‑steel bison — the 12‑foot calf — arriving at the New Highmark Stadium as crews begin installation.
• The three sculptures are built with steel substructures and stainless‑steel exteriors and include a 27‑foot bull, a 22‑foot cow and programmable lighting plus a smoke effect for the larger pieces.
• The franchise frames the works as a public tribute to Buffalo’s strength and community identity and says the pieces were designed to be a prominent visual welcome at the new $2.1 billion stadium.
• Fans on social media have divided sharply over the look of the silver bison, with critics questioning the finish, proportions and realism and other supporters praising the symbolism.
• The stadium’s ribbon cutting is scheduled for June 23 and the venue will open for a primetime Week 2 game on Sept. 17 against the Detroit Lions, when the remaining statues are expected to be in place.