Buddy Nix is stepping down as the Buffalo Bills general manager, the team announced Monday. Nix will remain with the team in a new role as special assistant, the Bills said in a statement issued on Monday.

"I've made this decision to step away from the general manager's position because I feel it is the right time. By the 'right time' I mean I think we have a good young roster, an excellent head coach [Doug Marrone] with a good staff, and it's time to let someone else handle these responsibilities and move forward together," Nix said in a statement.

"Timing is the main thing, but there are other benefits as well. This job is very demanding with a 24-7 schedule of responsibilities. This new position will enable me to spend more time with my family. I appreciate the opportunity given to me by [owner] Mr. [Ralph] Wilson and [president and CEO] Russ [Brandon] and I'm fortunate to step away from the job and still remain a part of the team."

The team did not announce an immediate replacement for Nix. However, The Bills have spent much of the offseason grooming assisntant GM Doug Whaley to take over.

The move may not have come as a surprise and comes after Nix oversaw the team's draft last month in which Buffalo opened by selecting quarterback EJ Manuel. Nix, 73, spent three complete seasons as the Bills general manager.

"I feel strongly that the team is on the right course for success," Nix added in the statement. "We have some excellent talent on our team and Coach Marrone and his staff are doing a terrific job in leading and teaching the players we have on our roster. I was very impressed with the 24 rookies we had in this past weekend and I'm very excited about the upcoming season. I think this is going to be an exciting time for our team and our fans."