Detroit Lions president Tom Lewand issued a statement on Tuesday following the death of Buffalo Bills owner Ralph Wilson who was 95:

“We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Mr. Wilson. He was a dear friend to Mr. and Mrs. Ford, the Ford Family and the Lions organization.

“Mr. Wilson truly was one of the great visionaries and caretakers of our game. He was a great Detroiter and has left a lasting legacy for the city of Buffalo and Western New York.

"We lost a tremendous leader and a true friend today, and his contributions to the NFL will endure forever.

“Our deepest sympathies and prayers go out to his family, friends and the Buffalo Bills organization.”

Lions owner William Clay Ford Sr., who was 88, died on March 8.