The Bills' courting of prized free-agent Mario Williams has stretched into its third day, with the linebacker returning to One Bills Drive on Thursday morning, and the two sides are close to agreeing on a deal, league sources told NFL Network's Albert Breer.
Williams' fiancee is in town, and he has been inquiring about real estate in the area. His comfort level with the area is important in pulling the trigger on the deal.
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The Billsflew him into town by private jet from his home in North Carolina shortly after the NFL's free-agency period opened Tuesday.
Williams' agent, Ben Dogra, wrote in a text to The Associated Press on Wednesday: "We are still continuing to talk."
NFL Network insider Jason La Canfora reported Tuesday that Williams wasn't expected to reach a decision before the end of that day, citing a league source. La Canfora also reported that Williams has a visit planned to at least one other team.
Despite failing to make a decision, Williams was busy Wednesday, one day after he had dinner with Bills management and coaches at a downtown Buffalo restaurant. After taking a physical and touring the Bills' facility Wednesday morning, Williams traveled to Buffalo International Airport to pick up his fiancée.
Williams told Buffalo's WIVB-TV, "We'll see," when asked if his fiancée's arrival was considered a good sign regarding his negotiations with the Bills.
The Bills said Williams and his fiancée, who wasn't identified, were given a tour of the region.
Williams is a two-time Pro Bowl starter who has a Texans franchise-best 53 career sacks, including a team single-season best 14 (2007). Williams was limited to playing just five games last season as a result of a torn chest muscle. He also missed three games in 2010 after having surgery to repair a sports hernia.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
