Buffalo Bills Unveil Bison Statues for Highmark Stadium's Family Circle

The Buffalo Bills have revealed detailed renderings of three massive bison statues that will be prominently displayed outside their new Highmark Stadium, set to open in 2026. The statues, representing a bull, cow, and calf, are designed to symbolize the strength and resilience of the Buffalo community. The bull will stand approximately 27 feet tall and 29 feet long, while the cow and calf will measure 22 feet and 12 feet, respectively. Each statue will be constructed with a steel substructure and a stainless-steel outer layer, weighing a combined total of around 23,000 pounds.

Bills unveil bison statues to adorn entrance to new stadiumBills unveil renderings of massive bison statues at new stadiumThe Sporting NewsESPN

The design of the bison statues has been a collaborative effort led by Frank Cravotta, the Bills' Senior Vice President of Design and Stadium Operations. The project began with a national request for qualifications in 2024, attracting 144 artists, from which Blessing Hancock was selected for her unique approach that incorporated the team's branding. The statues will feature five programmable lighting elements and a carbon dioxide system that emits vapor from their nostrils, simulating breath in the winter months. The statues are currently being constructed in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and will be transported to Orchard Park for installation.

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The bison statues will anchor an area called "Family Circle," designed to foster community engagement and celebrate the history of western New York. The plaza will be shaped like a bison hoof print and will include placards detailing the region's history, including acknowledgments of Native American tribes. The space will also feature dedications to members of the Bills' Wall of Honor, benches for fans, and elements that reflect local culture, such as a miniature version of the Peace Bridge connecting Buffalo and Fort Erie, Ontario.

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Frank Cravotta expressed enthusiasm about the project, stating, "This portion of the project has taken several years to come together... It's taken a lot of hard work and coordination; we're thrilled with the result." He emphasized that the bison statues are intended to be a centerpiece of the stadium's entrance, enhancing the overall experience for fans.

While the bison statues have garnered excitement, there remains some debate among fans regarding their size and design. Some fans have expressed concerns about the statues being too large or not fitting the intended aesthetic of the stadium. Additionally, there is ongoing discussion about whether former Bills running back O.J. Simpson will be included in the plaza's dedications, with no final decision made yet.

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As the construction of Highmark Stadium progresses, the installation of the bison statues is anticipated to be completed ahead of the stadium's opening. The Bills organization aims to create a year-round destination for fans, with the Family Circle serving as a welcoming space that embodies the spirit of the team and the community.

• “This portion of the project has taken several years to come together. Right from the start, we wanted to place American Bisons in front of our stadium. It's taken a lot of hard work and coordination; we're thrilled with the result,” — Frank Cravotta, Senior Vice President of Design, Buffalo Bills

• “There's so many things in the stadium that are fun, that people are just going to really think are cool.” — Frank Cravotta, Senior Vice President of Design, Buffalo Bills

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