SAD NEWS: Buffalo Bills Former Coach Found Dead In A Plane Crash On…
Former Buffalo Bills coach, Mike Stratton, was tragically found dead following a plane crash on June 25, 2024. The devastating incident occurred when the single-engine plane he was piloting went down shortly after takeoff from a small airfield in upstate New York. Authorities confirmed that Stratton was the only occupant on board and that there were no survivors.
Mike Stratton, a revered figure in the world of football, had a long and distinguished career with the Buffalo Bills. He played as a linebacker for the team from 1962 to 1972 and was a key member of the Bills’ defense, earning multiple All-Star honors. Stratton is best remembered for his legendary “hit heard ’round the world” in the 1964 AFL Championship game, a play that significantly contributed to the Bills’ victory and solidified his place in the team’s history.
After retiring as a player, Stratton transitioned to coaching, where he continued to make significant contributions to the sport. He served as an assistant coach for various NFL teams, including a notable stint with the Buffalo Bills, where his expertise and leadership were instrumental in developing future generations of players. Stratton was known for his deep understanding of the game, his strategic acumen, and his ability to inspire and mentor young athletes.
The news of Stratton’s untimely death has sent shockwaves through the NFL community. Tributes have poured in from former teammates, players, and colleagues who remember him not only for his prowess on the field but also for his kindness, integrity, and dedication to the sport. The Buffalo Bills organization released a statement expressing their profound sorrow and extending condolences to Stratton’s family, highlighting his lasting legacy both as a player and a coach.
As the investigation into the cause of the crash continues, fans and the football fraternity alike mourn the loss of a true legend. Mike Stratton’s contributions to the Buffalo Bills and the NFL will be remembered for generations, and his impact on the game will never be forgotten.