Winners
Buffalo Bills: DT Marcus Stroud has had injury problems the last two seasons and missed four games in 2007 on suspension for violating the NFL's policies on performance-enhancing drugs. He may be the centerpiece of this defensive renovation that also includes Mitchell and DT Spencer Johnson. The Bills continually rank in the lower echelons of the NFL in total defense and need to firm up.
Losers
New York Jets: Remade their offensive line with LG Alan Faneca and RT Damien Woody, but Woody, a career center and guard, played tackle last year with the Lions for the first time. Traded for DT Kris Jenkins and signed edge rusher Calvin Pace. All but Faneca could be expensive gambles. These four got $74 million in guaranteed money on contracts worth about $142M. Pace was a one-year wonder and Jenkins has had weight issues.
Patriots: Still a little lean at linebacker despite re-signing Tedy Bruschi. Already cut Rosevelt Colvin, unlikely to bring back Junior Seau, and Mike Vrabel will be 33 heading into 12th season. Will have new starting corners and perhaps a new safety if Wilson leaves. SS Rodney Harrison is 35. Keeping WRs Moss and Jabar Gaffney is a plus.
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