Whaley began his career in the NFL in 1995 as a pro personnel assistant with the Pittsburgh Steelers. He quickly rose through the ranks, becoming the team's pro scouting coordinator in 1999. During his time with the Steelers, the team made it to two Super Bowls, winning one. His keen eye for talent and strategic acumen played a significant role in the team's success.
In 2010, Whaley joined the Buffalo Bills as the Assistant General Manager and Director of Pro Personnel. He was instrumental in the Bills' player acquisition and scouting processes. His leadership and strategic planning were recognized when he was promoted to General Manager in 2013, becoming the second African American to hold this position in the team's history.
As General Manager, Whaley was responsible for all aspects of the Bills' football operations, including player personnel, coaching, player development, and scouting. He was instrumental in drafting and developing key players, including Sammy Watkins and Ronald Darby. Under his leadership, the Bills ended a 17-year playoff drought, one of the longest in NFL history.
Despite his successes, Whaley's tenure with the Bills was not without controversy. His decision to trade up for Watkins in the 2014 NFL Draft was criticized, as was his handling of the team's quarterback situation. He was also involved in several coaching changes, including the hiring and firing of Rex Ryan.
Whaley's tenure as the Bills' General Manager ended in 2017. Despite the controversies, his contributions to the team and the sport of football are undeniable. His strategic vision, talent evaluation skills, and leadership have left a lasting impact on the teams he has worked with.
After leaving the Bills, Whaley continued to contribute to the sport. He joined the NFL's Football Operations department as a senior executive, where he continues to influence the future of the sport. His experience and knowledge make him a valuable asset to the NFL and the sport of football as a whole.
🏈