The Buffalo Bills indicated Tuesday that Dick Jauron will return as coach in 2009, ending speculation that he would be sacked in the wake of a losing National Football League season.

Jauron coached the Bills to a 7-9 record for a third straight season, but received a vote of confidence from team owner Ralph C. Wilson in a statement released Tuesday.

The announcement came after the 90-year-old Wilson met with team executives Monday.

"It is well known that I share many of the fans' dissatisfaction with our offensive game management," Wilson said in the statement.

"That being said, I believe that this team, at this time, is better served by continuity in the coaching staff rather than a disruptive overhaul.

"The team played hard all year long and there are many positives to build on," Wilson said. "This is not to say that we will be complacent. In my discussions with Dick and our senior football people, the issues are recognized and I am confident they will be addressed."

The Bills got off to an encouraging 5-1 start, but lost eight of their last 10 games and finished last in their division.