The Buffalo Bills have officially decided that former running back O.J. Simpson will not be inducted into the team's Wall of Fame at their new stadium, according to a team spokesperson. The decision, announced on June 29, 2026, comes as the Bills prepare to move to a new venue in 2028.
Team cites values and community impact
Bills executive vice president and general counsel, Jim Overdorf, stated that the decision was made after careful consideration of Simpson's legal troubles, including his 1995 acquittal for the murders of Nicole Brown Simpson and Ron Goldman, and his later conviction for armed robbery and kidnapping in 2008. "The Buffalo Bills are committed to honoring individuals who exemplify the highest standards of character and sportsmanship," Overdorf said. "While O.J. Simpson was a remarkable player on the field, his off-field conduct does not align with the values we wish to represent in our new home."
The Wall of Fame currently honors 28 former players and contributors, including Hall of Famers like Jim Kelly and Thurman Thomas. Simpson, who played for the Bills from 1969 to 1977 and was the first NFL player to rush for over 2,000 yards in a season (1973), had been considered for inclusion in the new stadium's Wall of Fame.
Public opinion and legacy
A recent poll by the Buffalo News found that 68% of respondents opposed Simpson's inclusion, citing his criminal record. Simpson, now 79, has maintained a low public profile since his release from prison in 2017. The Bills' decision mirrors a broader trend in professional sports to distance themselves from controversial figures.
"We understand that some fans may disagree, but we believe this is the right decision for the team and the community," Overdorf added. The new stadium, set to open in 2028, will feature a redesigned Wall of Fame that will include current inductees and future selections determined by a committee.
