April 30, 2006

Some Reach, But Not For Stars

While it remains unclear whether the Bills used a draft board or a Ouija board to rank players Saturday, quarterbacks Matt Leinart and Jay Cutler spent some nervous hours in freefall before landing safely. Buffalo unleashed a pair of questionable moves in the opening round of the 2006 NFL draft, choosing Ohio State defensive back Donte Whitner with the eighth selection, then trading up with the Bears to reach for tackle John McCargo, the third North Carolina State defensive lineman off the board within the first 26 picks.

Pennington Goes To The Buffalo Bills On Day Two

Terrance Pennington became the second New Mexico offensive lineman in as many days to be selected in the 2006 NFL Draft when he was taken by the Buffalo Bills with the eighth pick of round seven (216th overall) this afternoon.

Draft Wrapup - Bills Draft Defense Early

For the first time in team history the Bills selected defensive players with their first five draft picks this past weekend. After addressing many of the offensive needs in free agency, including the signing of veteran guard Tutan Reyes last Thursday, it was obvious defense would be a focus.

Bills stay put, take Whitner earlier than expected

The first pick of the Bills’ new regime was a shocker to many observers and fans, but it wasn’t a surprise to other teams. Ohio State S Donte Whitner, a junior eligible, was expected to go in the mid-to-late first round, but Buffalo had him ranked high on its board and may have reached a bit to get its man at No. 8

Bills Draft More Defense On Day Two

The Bills continued focusing on defense on the second day of the 2006 NFL draft in round four, by selecting free safety Ko Simpson of South Carolina. Simpson is 6-1, 209 and had 6 interceptions last season; his 40 time is listed at 4.47.

Simpson Drafted By Buffalo Bills

Former South Carolina safety Ko Simpson was selected by the Buffalo Bills with the eighth pick of the fourth round (105th pick overall) of the 2006 NFL Draft on April 30. In doing so, Simpson joins fellow Gamecock Johnathan Joseph as Carolina draftees in 2006 and becomes the 18th Gamecock drafted since 2000.

Buffalo moves surprise

The New York Jets took the safe route in former Patriots defensive coordinator Eric Mangini's inaugural draft yesterday. Miami Dolphins coach Nick Saban selected a familiar prospect. But the Buffalo Bills, led by the ''Golden Boys," 87-year-old owner Ralph Wilson and 80-year-old general manager Marv Levy, pulled a couple of surprises in the first round as AFC East foes look to dethrone the Patriots.

Ko Simpson Drafted by Buffalo Bills

USC safety Ko Simpson was drafted early in day two of the NFL draft when the Buffalo Bills selected him in the 4th round.

Critics are taking aim, but Marv stuck to his guns

Levy and Tom Modrak left themselves wide open to criticism with two first-round picks that were seen as reaches by NFL draft experts

Bills may be doing QB Shuffle in fall

No matter how much the Bills may have helped themselves in some priority areas as a result of the weekend draft, the fact is that in a sport where the name of the game is quarterback what they have are three backups.

Top pick Whitner likes to keep it reel

It takes more than talent to play in the National Football League. It takes preparation, too. Lots of it. Donte Whitner already has that down pat. His attention to every detail helped make the Ohio State star one of the best strong safeties in college football last season

Spotlight finally on McCargo

John McCargo did not get as much attention as his more heralded teammates, but the North Carolina State defensive tackle will get a chance to break out of their shadow with the Buffalo Bills, who drafted him with their second pick in the first round.

Bills pull the safety trigger

The Buffalo Bills got their big defensive tackle and filled a glaring need at strong safety in the NFL draft Saturday.

Whitner surprise early pick by Bills

On a day that turned out better than he might ever have hoped, Donte Whitner's first instinct was to cry. Expected to go much, much later on the first day of the NFL draft, the Ohio State defensive back cracked the top 10 when the Buffalo Bills took him with the eighth overall pick.

Bills addressed needs, but the logic isn't clear

Draftniks and ESPN analysts weren't the only ones scratching their heads when Buffalo selected Donte Whitner with the eighth pick of the draft. Whitner was caught off guard, too.

Bills start with stoppers

Under their old leadership regime, the Buffalo Bills used 10 of their last 12 draft picks on offense, watching their defense erode into one of the worst in the NFL. New general manager Marv Levy put a halt to that trend on Saturday and used an exclamation point.

And with the No. 8 pick, The Buffalo Bills select…

Since it was known who was draft eligible, fans and experts have been looking at players that the Bills could find. Most picked one of the defensive tackles Broderick Bunkley or Haloti Ngata, an offensive lineman or maybe a safety. Well Marv, Tom Modrak and Dick Jauron caused a collective “Huh?” from ESPN’s analysts, fans and well anyone else watching.

Big Day for Buckeyes

On a day that turned out better than he might ever have hoped, Donte Whitner's first instinct was to cry. Expected to go much, much later on the first day of the NFL draft, the Ohio State defensive back cracked the top 10 when the Buffalo Bills took him with the eighth overall pick. "I came to tears. I didn't think I would but I had to put my head down when I received the call," Whitner said on Saturday.

Draft notes: Bears, Bills, Bucs simply blow it

The Buffalo Bills, the Jets' AFC East rivals, had the kind of draft that will have people scratching their heads for some time. Perhaps general manager Marv Levy and owner Ralph Wilson know what they're doing, but their first day drafting effort must be baffling western New York.

Top pick Williams leads three N.C. State first-rounders

When it came to defensive linemen, N.C. State had the first round of the 2006 National Football League Draft covered on Saturday. Led by end Mario Williams who was taken No. 1 by the Houston Texans, the Wolfpack placed a history-making three players among the first 26 selections in the NFL Draft. Williams was followed by his counterpart at end, Manny Lawson, who went 22nd to the San Francisco 49ers, and defensive tackle John McCargo at No. 26 to the Buffalo Bills.

Bills Draft Day is Full of Surprises

MARV LEVY'S FIRST DRAFT... IN A WORD, STUNNING. All the so-called draft experts had their predictions about who Buffalo would take...for the sake of Bills fans everywhere...let's hope those experts were wrong.

John Clayton: Draftday winners and losers

The Bills baffled everyone with their selections. Some players who expected to go high were forced to endure long waits. Here are the winners and losers.

Bills Draft Weekend Running Recap - Day 1

Here is a running recap of the events at One Bills Drive on Day One of the NFL Draft.

April 29, 2006

Bills Choose Defense With First Pick

The Bills went on the defensive with their first round pick of the 2006 NFL Draft. Although Matt Leinart was available to take at the 8th spot, first-year Bills General Manager Marv Levy and company selected 5’11, 205 pound safety Donte Whitner.

Best and worst of the first round

Buffalo Bills: Donte Whitner, S, Ohio State. Whitner got away with mediocre run support in college because he played behind two first-round Buckeye linebackers, A.J. Hawk and Bobby Carpenter. The Bills can't afford to have stopping the run be part of Whitner's on-the-job training. And if Bills general manager Marv Levy liked Whitner so much, he probably could have traded down with some team that wanted to move up to draft Leinart and still landed Whitner later in the first round.

Fletcher Gives Whitner Stamp of Approval

If you were wondering what the veteran players on the Bills' roster think of top pick Donte Whitner you need only ask London Fletcher his opinion.

"He's a guy you can ink into the starting lineup for many years to come," said Fletcher of the chances of Whitner coming in and nailing down the starting strong safety role.

Bills trade with Bears; take DT McCargo with 26th pick

Marv Levy was not satisfied with just one first-round pick. After trading with the Chicago Bears, the Buffalo Bills selected North Carolina State defensive tackle John McCargo with the 26th pick.

Bills Acquire Additional First-Round Pick From Bears

The Buffalo Bills acquired an additional first-round pick in the 2006 NFL Draft on Saturday, sending its second- and third-round picks in this draft to the Chicago Bears in exchange.

Donahoe drafts get average grade

Tom Donahoe refused to take credit for the Buffalo Bills' drafts. The team's former president and general manager always said the selection process was a group effort.

For Bills, Bunkley may be there for the taking

The Buffalo Bills will get the chance to become a bigger, tougher football team this weekend

Buzz: Birds, Bills talk of swap

The unofficial Eagles buzz yesterday continued to focus on the possibility of moving up in the first round of the NFL draft, which starts at noon today. The Eagles are believed to have discussed switching picks with Buffalo, which chooses eighth, six slots before the Birds.

Levy seeks team 'backbone'

"I believe that every source possible is important but I still think the backbone of the league is the draft," Levy said. "I'd give the largest percentage to the draft, but it isn't a percentage large enough to win the election. You need more than that."

Levy back in the game, now as GM

Although his title has changed and it's been nearly a decade since he last participated in the NFL draft, Marv Levy's approach remains the same. The Hall-of-Fame-coach-turned-rookie-general-manager will seek a consensus among his scouting department and coaching staff before announcing the Bills selections this weekend.

April 28, 2006

Bills Had Better Work on Lines, … Or Else…!

OK, so the final hour is here. Within 24 hours the long-awaited 2006 NFL Draft will be underway prompting cheers, boos, kudos, and criticism from fans of their respective NFL teams worldwide. As to the Bills, some disturbing rumors have emerged suggesting a departure from wisdom in this draft.

RB Thomas the Latest Addition Before Draft Weekend

Last offseason then free agent running back Anthony Thomas was brought in for a free agent visit by the Bills, but serious contract negotiations never ensued. Fast forward to a year later when Thomas was again on the free agent market after playing nine games for New Orleans last season. There was little doubt how interested Dick Jauron was in bringing Thomas into the fold when he made his second free agent visit in as many years. “The second time was the charm I guess,” said Thomas.

Bills Sign Tutan Reyes, Draft Needs Reduced

The Bills bolstered their offensive line on Thursday when they signed free agent guard Tutan Reyes. "He's a young yet experienced offensive lineman who functioned in an offense that worked well last year," said Bills GM Marv Levy.

Bills fill big need at guard

The Buffalo Bills signed a starting caliber guard Thursday and gave themselves more flexibility in Saturday's NFL Draft. Tutan Reyes, who started the past two years for the Carolina Panthers, agreed to terms with the Bills.

Bills too good for their own good

The early ’90s should’ve been Mardi Gras four years straight. The combination of such glorious talents as Jim Kelly, Thurman Thomas, Bruce Smith and Andre Reed formed a monster more fierce than the Power Rangers’ collective robot and stronger than the force of Captain Planet when those wussy kids put their rings together.

Bills should focus on linemen in draft

With the No. 8 pick, the Bills merely have to select one of the top two defensive tackles available, Haloti Nagata or Brodrick Bunkley, to potentially be better. But what if Levy does the Donahoe thing and goes for the headline, the pick that sells tickets and moves merchandise off the shelves?

Buffalo Bills draft preview (Defense)

This offseason, the Buffalo Bills have stood relatively pat on the defensive side of the ball, an area they fell all the way to 29th in last season. In 2003 and 2004, the Bills' defense ended up with consecutive second-place finishes. They were expected to lead the Bills to the playoffs last year, but ended up as a major disappointment.

April 27, 2006

Bills Draft Analysis- Part 1- Playmakers

Bills Report takes a look at the Buffalo Bills position by position and where they might look to fill holes in this Saturday's NFL draft. Today we look at the offensive skill positions.

Bills Draft Analysis- Part II- Offensive Line

Bills Report takes a look at the Buffalo Bills position by position and where they might look to fill holes in this Saturday's NFL draft. Today we look at the offensive lone, arguably one of the weakest areas of the team.

Bills Draft Analysis-Part III- Defensive Line

Bills Report takes a look at the Buffalo Bills position by position and where they might look to fill holes in this Saturday's NFL draft. Today we look at the defensive line, hit hard cap casualties and free agent defections the past two seasons.

Bills Draft Analysis-Part IV- LBs & DBs

Bills Report takes a look at the Buffalo Bills position by position and where they might look to fill holes in this Saturday's NFL draft. In our last installment we look at the linebacking corps and defensive backs, where the Bills have probably their best talent as a group on the team. (Billszone.com )

Buffalo Bills sign guard Tutan Reyes

The Buffalo Bills Thursday signed free agent offensive guard Tutan Reyes, a 16-game starter for Carolina last season. Reyes is likely to compete with incumbent Bennie Anderson and second-year backup Duke Preston for the starting left guard spot.

Buffalo Bills draft preview (Offense)

With the NFL Draft just two days away, it's time to really begin in earnest to think about what positions the Buffalo Bills will need to address on both sides of the ball. In this installment I'll analyze their offensive needs position-by-position.

Bills' Jauron hopes for a can't-miss pick like, well, Urlacher

When Buffalo Bills coach Dick Jauron was heading up the Chicago Bears, the team acquired Brian Urlacher with the ninth overall pick in the 2000 NFL college draft. Urlacher, who played at the University of New Mexico, was a freakish athlete who played outside linebacker, safety and wide receiver in addition to returning kicks in college. The Bears saw him as a middle linebacker and well, the rest is history.

April 26, 2006

Short List of Draft Rules for Bills

While it’s anyone’s guess as to what’s up Levy & Co.’s sleeve at this point, there are some general guidelines that if the Bills want to walk away from the draft table as winners, they’ll have to adhere to. Draft Rules for the 2006 Draft that the Bills need to follow:

Levy-Led Bills Have Many Holes to Fill

Just because Marv Levy is a first-time NFL general manager doesn't mean the Hall of Fame coach isn't familiar with running a little misdirection leading up to the NFL draft. "With the eighth pick in the first round, we're going to take Reggie Bush," he said with a wink.

Free-agent feedback

Rating some of the Bills' offseason signings

Pivotal picks: AFC

NFL talent evaluators may spend millions of dollars and months of work poring over the available prospects, but that doesn't mean the draft will ever rise to the level of science. Now that the league's annual personnel crapshoot is again upon us, let's review one recent key draft decision for each of the NFL's 32 clubs, a pivotal move that for better or worse helped shape the teams they are today:

5 more teams are on NFL revenue panel

Several National Football League teams from small and midsized markets - including the Buffalo Bills - will help hammer out the final details of a new labor agreement that has left owner Ralph C. Wilson Jr. worried about the Bills' future in Buffalo. Along with the Bills, the other five teams disclosed Tuesday as members of the league "Qualifier Committee" are the Green Bay Packers, Cleveland Browns, Detroit Lions, St. Louis Rams and Houston Texans.

Busy Bills got younger

The Buffalo Bills might have done some fantastic value shopping the past six weeks. They have acquired a bunch of young players at reasonable prices who could be ready to blossom into key contributors.

Kelso to Join Buffalo Bills Radio Broadcast Team

The Buffalo Bills announced today that former Bills defensive back Mark Kelso will return to the team as the color analyst for the Buffalo Bills Radio Network. Kelso replaces former analyst Alex Van Pelt, who joined the Bills coaching staff as the offensive quality control coach in the offseason. Kelso enjoyed an eight-year NFL career with Buffalo (1986-1993) and served as the starting free safety for the final seven seasons of his career.

Kelso to count on experience in analyst role

It wasn't an open secret on the scale of Katie Couric's move to CBS, but the Buffalo Bills announcement today that Mark Kelso will replace Alex Van Pelt as the team's radio analyst on 97 Rock was hardly a shocker.

"Brick" should top Buffalo's first round big board

The Bills have many needs, which are headlined by the gaping hole at defensive tackle as well as the perceived weakness at strong safety, even though free agent signee Matt Bowen might be able to fill that void. Nevertheless, with the eighth pick in the draft, the Bills find themselves in prime position to fill a need, or take the player who is supposed to be the best available. Without any further delay, let's take a look at how the Buffalo Bills' draft board should look for the eighth overall selection this Saturday.

Bills can skip offensive linemen in first round

With D'Brickashaw Ferguson expected to be long off the board, the Bills, who own the eighth overall pick, have no justification for spending another Top 10 selection on an offensive lineman so soon after the Mike Williams' debacle of four years ago.

April 25, 2006

Tagliabue adds five to revenue committee

NFL commissioner Paul Tagliabue added five teams to a committee that will help determine how a new revenue-sharing plan -- important to small-market franchises' economic stability -- will work under the league's new labor deal.

Grading the Levy Influenced Drafts

It’s no secret that Marv Levy’s impact in this brief offseason to date more resembles that of Tom Donahoe than of Bill Polian and that is stating things very favorably for Levy & Co. The reality is that Levy has signed even more questionable players to Donahoe-sized contracts than Donahoe ever did. But what do we know of "Levy’s drafts?" Nothing really. He has no formal record.

Bills have opportunity for defensive upgrade

The days of stuffing the run are long gone for the Buffalo Bills. Memories of Fred Smerlas and the Bermuda Triangle have been fossilized. The Ted Washington Era can be studied in cave wall hieroglyphics. Even remembering the Sam Adams-Pat Williams halcyon days of the recent past takes a good Google search. Welcome to 2006, The Rebuilding Project.

Cieslak rising up Buffalo's depth chart

Whether talking about his beloved 1970 Nova stockcar or the upcoming football season, Brad Cieslak isn't frightened at the thought of starting anew. The former Northern Illinois tight end visited with several friends and teammates during Saturday's annual spring football game. Cieslak, entering his second year on the Buffalo Bills, welcomed the opportunity to work with a new coaching staff.

April 24, 2006

Grading the Modrak Drafts

Heading into this weekend’s draft, it has not escaped notice that the sole unifying force at the top from the worst of the Donahoe era still in place to unify the Levy era, is Assistant GM Tom Modrak.

Bills New Schemes, Character Determine Who Fits

A college prospect could look very tantalizing to a team scout. He might have all the measurables, plays well on tape and has plenty of upside. But the most important question a Bills scout has to ask is, 'Does he fit the Buffalo Bills?' It's a question that requires different criteria to provide a complete answer. Bills Assistant GM Tom Modrak explains that now is the time for the coaching staff to have its greatest input with respect to the draft.

TKO: Comebacker

Talking to Takeo Spikes, you get the feeling that he's ready to suit up for the Buffalo Bills today. But now is not the time. The season opener at New England is the target date for the veteran linebacker, who expects to be fully recovered from his Achilles injury by then.

Bills building coalition of power

Wilson and Bills treasurer Jeffrey Littmann believe the new labor pact will drive up the players' salary cap beyond what small-market teams like the Bills can afford. Wilson was one of only two owners (Cincinnati's Mike Brown was the other) to vote against the bargaining agreement last month.

Native son Russert joins fight for Bills

He was a fan long before he became a journalist, so when the Bills' future in western New York appeared in doubt, Buffalo native Tim Russert gave objectivity the boot and went on the offensive. The long-time moderator of NBC's Meet the Press became a lobbyist of sorts, joining Sen. Chuck Schumer for a meeting with NFL commissioner Paul Tagliabue Thursday.

April 23, 2006

Positional rankings: Defensive line

Considering the dearth of top defensive line talent in recent drafts, it may not be a coincidence that more NFL teams have moved toward 3-4 alignments. The 2006 draft may finally bring this drought to an end.

Positional rankings: Linebacker

As many as six outside linebackers are projected to be taken in the first round alone, according to ratings by NFLDraftScout.com. This group is led by Ohio State's demon of destruction A.J. Hawk, who could be among the first five players selected.

Positional rankings: Defensive backs

Topping the list is Texas tough guy Michael Huff, who is projected as a strong safety but might be the best cornerback or free safety in the draft. He sets the tone for a draft that could include as many as 21 defensive backs selected in the first two rounds, according to ratings by NFLDraftScout.com.

Positional rankings: Offensive linemen

Topped by Virginia's massive left tackle, D'Brickashaw Ferguson, as many as six offensive linemen could be selected in the first round, according to ratings by NFLDraftScout.com

Wilson's way got him the backing he needed to protect Bills

ou've got to hand it to Buffalo Bills owner Ralph Wilson: He knows how to push all of the right buttons. While his concerns about his NFL club's future haven't been completely resolved, the 87-year-old Wilson is feeling a lot better than a couple of weeks ago. After Wilson gained the support of people such as Gov. Pataki and Sen. Chuck Schumer, NFL Commissioner Paul Tagliabue assured Wilson last week that the situation wasn't as dire as Wilson believed.

Call him Buffalo Bill Weld

First, New England quarterbacks Doug Flutie and Drew Bledsoe shuffled off to play for Buffalo. Then the Buffalo Bills stole safety Lawyer Malloy from the New England Patriots, their AFC East rival. Could that explain the recent moves by former Massachusetts governor William Weld?

Wilson's way got him the backing he needed to protect Bills

You've got to hand it to Buffalo Bills owner Ralph Wilson: He knows how to push all of the right buttons. While his concerns about his NFL club's future haven't been completely resolved, the 87-year-old Wilson is feeling a lot better than a couple of weeks ago.

April 22, 2006

Sugar Ralph Scores Big

NFL Commissioner Paul Tagliabue, feeling the heat from Capitol Hill, has announced the Buffalo Bills and other small market teams will be protected under the terms of the new collective bargaining agreement with the players. Small market and large market teams, according to the commissioner, will be equally represented on the 8-member committee that will hammer out the details of the pact. Additionally, Tagliabue said, Wilson will be one of the select eight.

Bills report: Notes, quotes

It pays to make noise. After losing a vote for the NFL's labor extension with players last month, 30-2, then studying the fine print, Bills owner Ralph Wilson took his concerns to his local elected officials. The result? He's won a spot on the league's eight-person committee that will determine how teams qualify for the new proposed $150 million pool of previously unshared revenue.

Bills report: Inside slant

Asked his analysis of why the Bills, after making strides with a 9-7 record in 2004, crashed to a 5-11 finish in 2005, new general manager Marv Levy didn't hesitate to answer. "The defense went to pot and everything went down hill from there," Levy said.

New NFL deal will drive the Bills out of Buffalo

This will not be a popular opinion, but it is my belief that the writing is not only "on the wall" but has been chiseled into the wall for the Buffalo Bills in Western New York. The writing clearly states that the Bills are moving out of Buffalo, and it is accurate and true.

Think fast when it comes to this year's defensive backs

Young and fast are the words to describe this year's crop of defensive backs in the NFL draft. "The corner position is one that if you look for true raw speed, that has been a little bit hard to find over the last couple of years," Tennessee General Manager Floyd Reese said. "There is a group this year that runs pretty well. The corners are young, but they are talented."

Bills could go big with Bunkley

The Buffalo Bills recognize the need to go for big men in the NFL Draft, and the evidence is pointing toward Florida State defensive tackle Brodrick Bunkley as their likeliest first-round pick.

Levy dodges speculation on odds of drafting Young

With the No. 8 pick in the NFL draft, the Buffalo Bills never thought they'd be answering questions about the possibility of taking quarterback Vince Young, who led Texas to the national championship with a game for the ages.

April 21, 2006

Bills Forever Tinkering with Soft Indicators

Recent media reports have been painting a nostalgic picture in part regarding the big, bad return of Peerless Price to the Bills. The typical "fluff" flowed forth like lava and ash out of the side of Mount St. Helens back in 1980.

Tagliabue reassures jittery Buffalo fans

NFL commissioner Paul Tagliabue reassured a New York senator and jittery Buffalo Bills fans Thursday that the league's new labor agreement won't hurt small market teams and force the team to re-locate.

At quiet LB position, still waters run deep

The glamour usually eludes the linebacker position in the NFL draft. No linebacker has been taken in the top 10 picks in six years. Only nine linebackers have been taken in the first round overall in the last five years. Finally, linebackers will get some time in the spotlight this year. Next to running back Reggie Bush, Ohio State's A.J. Hawk arguably was the most dominant player at his position in college football last season.

Peerless returns, ego intact

Humility was never Peerless Price's strong suit. In his early days in Buffalo, Price carried himself with a swaggering superiority, far beyond his modest achievements as an NFL receiver. Eric Moulds, an early mentor, sometimes urged the kid to tone it down until he'd done something in the league. So it was no surprise to hear Price begin his second tour as a Bill by insisting he has not been humbled by three successive seasons of struggle and decline.

Bills to get seat on NFL's new contract committee

Buffalo Bills owner Ralph Wilson and the team's fans gained some reassurances Thursday about the pro football franchise's future in western New York. After a Washington, D.C., meeting with Sen. Charles Schumer on Capitol Hill, National Football League Commissioner Paul Tagliabue said the league's new labor contract would not hurt "small-market" teams and force the Bills to relocate.

April 20, 2006

Competitive Balance is the Real Issue

Lost in the discussion of the impact of the collective bargaining agreement between the National Football League and its players’ union is its impact on the competitive balance of the 32 teams. While it is understandable that Bills fans are worried about the team’s future in the area, what should concern every football fan is the danger that the playing field has been tilted in favor of teams located in large markets.

Bills’ Draft Needs

While the Bills may still make another acquisition or two prior to the draft at the end of April, the team that will be on the field this fall has begun to establish itself. In order to determine team draft needs, we need to start with the current starting lineup. From there priorities can be established. Suffice it to say however that the Bills’ needs by far exceed what they’ll be able to pull out of it this year.

Politicians Can't Solve a Problem that They Created

Were I not a devoted Bills fan it would be laughable to think the hopes of the area’s football fans rest in the hands of local and state politicians. They are the people who created the basic problem, namely the demise of the area’s economy. How on Earth can anyone expect them to find the solution?

Attending Pro Sports Becoming Increasingly for the Wealthy

An article recently appeared in the Washington Post recently in which a long time Redskin fan justifiably criticized Redskins owner Dan Snyder for trying to squeeze every penny out of his fan base. While a Bills fan, after having left the Upstate NY area I have lived in the D.C. metro area for 13 years now and can fully empathize with this fan.

Wilson Encouraged After Meeting In Washington

"We are encouraged by the information we are hearing coming out of today's meeting with Senator Schumer, Commissioner Tagliabue and Tim Russert. I want to publically thank Senator Schumer for taking such an interest in this effort which is vital to not just the Buffalo Bills situation, but to all small market teams in the NFL.I also want to thank Commissioner Tagliabue for his involvement in this meeting as well as NBC'S Tim Russert."

Tagliabue reassures Bills will stay competitive

NFL commissioner Paul Tagliabue reassured a New York senator and jittery Buffalo Bills fans that the league's new labor agreement won't hurt small market teams and force the team to relocated.

Tagliabue: Ralph Wilson Jr. To Sit On New CBA Panel

Even though labor peace was achieved in February, the Bills owner has been on his soap box to make sure that the new CBA will not doom the Buffalo Bills. Senator Chuck Schumer said today that Ralph Wilson Jr. will be one of 8 people on the new committee NFL Commissioner Paul Tagliabue is setting up to write the new rules of the Collective Bargaining Agreement.

NFL tells Schumer: Bills should stay

NFL commissioner Paul Tagliabue reassured a New York senator and jittery Buffalo Bills fans Thursday that the league's new labor agreement won't hurt small market teams and force the team to relocated.

Schumer Scores in Fight to Keep Bills in Buffalo

The fight's not over yet, but Senator Charles Schumer has won a big victory in the battle to keep the Bills a vital part of Western New York. The senator's meeting with NFL Commissioner Paul Tagliabue just wrapped up a short time ago in Washington. News 4's Ellen Maxwell has late breaking details. Senator Charles Schumer says he's confident that NFL Commissioner Paul Tagliabue is committed to keeping the Bills in Buffalo.

Tagliabue: Bills should continue in Buffalo

A one-hour meeting Thursday in Washington should spark optimism over the Bills future in Buffalo. The session among NFL Commissioner Paul Tagliabue, Sen. Charles Schumer (D-NY), and Buffalo native Tim Russert of NBC News, was called to discuss concerns of owner Ralph Wilson regarding the a new labor pact.

Schumer Says Meeting with Tagliabue Very Positive

The Buffalo Bills future in Western New York is a lot brighter according to U-S Senator Chuck Schumer after a meeting with NFL Commissioner Paul Tagliabue earlier today in Washington, D.C. Schumer tells 7 NEWS Tagliabue has agreed to let Bills owner Ralph Wilson sit on a committee that will decide how revenue is distributed. Schumer also says other small market owners will also sit on that committee.

Bills Staying Put: Tagliabue To Schumer

Buffalo's beloved football team, the Buffalo Bills, will be "staying put", according to NFL Commissioner Paul Tagliabue. Tagliabue met this morning with U-S Senator Charles Schumer, who said the one thing Bills' owner Ralph Wilson wanted Schumer to persue was a seat for the team on a new panel that will set the rules under the league's new Collective Bargaining Agreement.

Bills and Clements Maintaining Contact

The Bills and the representative for cornerback Nate Clements, have kept in touch since he was named the franchise player by the club in late February."I would say there's been periodic contact," said Bills Executive Vice President of Football Administration Jim Overdorf. "There hasn't been as much as there may have been during the three weeks (after he was tagged)."

Former Bills assistant dies

Bob Dove, who was an assistant coach with the Buffalo Bills in 1960 and 1961, died Wednesday in Youngstown, Ohio. He was 85.

NFL To Hear Case For Bills From Heavy Hitters

NBC Newsman Tim Russert, a Buffalo native, and U-S Senator Charles Schumer are meeting with NFL Commissioner Paul Tagliabue today to make a case for ensuring the Collective Bargaining Agreement is fair for all, including small-market teams.

Bills could sink to red ink

The Buffalo Bills have always thought of themselves as a well-run business, with the NFL's time-honored system of revenue sharing, rabid fan and corporate support, a friendly stadium lease and taxpayer subsidies keeping the "small-market" team competitive and profitable. Now, owner Ralph Wilson claims his enviable business model is in danger of being sacked by the NFL's new labor agreement that will pay players $150 million more per year.

Bills should wait on Reyes' fate until draft concludes

Last week, the Buffalo Bills brought in Carolina Panthers' free agent offensive guard Tutan Reyes in for a visit at their facilities in Orchard Park, NY. Reyes was thought of as a solid yet replaceable player on the Panthers' offensive line, but he'd catapult to being one of the Bills' best on what appears to be an uninspiring collection of blockers.

April 19, 2006

Bills Undrafteds Have Staying Power

When it comes to NFL teams giving an honest look to an undrafted rookie free agent in training camp, sometimes politics get in the way of giving a deserving player an opportunity. Fortunately that hasn't been the case in Buffalo. Since 2001 more than 25 players were kept on the roster or practice squad by Buffalo at the start of the regular season that year. For a dozen of them it was the first 53-man roster they had ever been a part of at the NFL level.

Legislature is expected to support owner of Bills

The Erie County Legislature, in its next meeting, is expected to support Buffalo Bills owner Ralph C. Wilson Jr. in pressing for a change to the National Football League's collective bargaining agreement.

Fans won't balk if Bills raise admission

Although Buffalo may not be as wealthy as other cities, it boggles the mind that the best seats have season-ticket prices of $470, $440, $410 and $320 — $320 dollars for a season's worth of excitement for the most popular sport in the country! Some people in other cities pay that to go to one game.

Migratory politician wants Bills to stay home

A few weeks ago, one of William Weld's more creative staff members sought to enhance the boss' efforts to become the Republican Party's nominee for governor of New York, by doctoring news stories and sending them out as campaign statements. Weld or someone on his staff apparently got wind of Ralph Wilson's almost annual threat to sell the Buffalo Bills or move them to some locale that does not so closely resemble Youngstown, Ohio.

Ngata would be a huge boon for the Bills' defense

On Tuesday, the Buffalo Bills hosted former University of Oregon nose tackle Haloti Ngata at their facilities in Orchard Park, NY. Most experts believe the Bills will end up selecting Ngata with the eighth overall pick in the draft, but others don't think the 338 pounder makes sense in the Bills' new Cover 2 defensive scheme.

April 18, 2006

Ngata Visits One Bills Drive

Early on, many of the so-called draft experts and draft publications had the Bills taking Haloti Ngata. The Oregon defensive tackle did visit with the coaching staff and front office people today but, Ngata may not be a good fit with the club's new defensive scheme.

The Bills Are Not Immune

Over the past few years, we have been relentless with politicians who spend campaign dollars out of the area for advertising and web design, when that money could be put back into the community locally here in Erie County. Most recently with the 2005 mayoral campaign for example. But if were going to be tough on politicians who do this, shouldn't we be equally tough on the Buffalo Bills, who have been outsourcing their web design and maintenance to a company in Chicago for almost 6 years?

Schumer calls meeting with Tagliabue, Russert

National Football League Commissioner Paul Tagliabue plans to show Sen. Charles E. Schumer how the NFL's new contract with its players will help, not hurt, the Buffalo Bills during a meeting here Thursday, league spokesman Greg Aiello said Monday.

Bills release Thomas

The Buffalo Bills announced Monday they have released backup cornerback Kevin Thomas. Thomas, Buffalo's sixth-round pick in the 2002 draft out of UNLV, missed all of last season with a knee injury.

April 17, 2006

Tagliabue to meet Schumer, Russert to talk about Bills

Outgoing NFL commissioner Paul Tagliabue will meet Thursday morning with Schumer and TV newsman Tim Russert, host of NBC's Sunday morning Meet the Press program, and an avid Bills fan.

Reynolds airs Bills concerns to NFL, fellow lawmakers

After meeting last week with Buffalo Bills owner Ralph Wilson Jr., Rep. Thomas M. Reynolds (R-Clarence) has written to 94 of his congressional colleagues about the potential impact the National Football League's new collective bargaining agreement could have on small-market teams.

Jumping On The Bills Bandwagon

In a unanimous show of support, all 12 Democrats on the Erie County Legislature are sponsoring a resolution to make sure the Buffalo Bills stay in town.

One more voice on Bills dilemma

Erie County Legislator George Holt Jr., D-Buffalo, and immediate past chairman of the county lawmaking body, said Monday he and his fellow Democratic Party legislators will present a resolution at their next meeting urging the National Football League to reconsider some of the terms in its new collective bargaining agreement that hurt small market franchises like the Bills.

Bills' Red Ink Claims Simply Incredible

There's not much question the National Football League's new collective bargaining agreement will make things harder for the smaller-market teams. The claim that the Buffalo Bills will lose money next year, however, doesn't do a lot for the credibility of owner Ralph Wilson's arguments.

Bills Unveil New Look for Buffalobills.com

The Buffalo Bills launched its newly designed version of buffalobills.com, the official website of the Buffalo Bills. Introducing its first new design since September 2004, Buffalobills.com offers visitors expanded coverage, more content and interactive activity on the home of the most extensive Buffalo Bills information on the internet.

Just a whole lot of talk

The words were barely out of Buffalo Bills owner Ralph Wilson Jr.’s mouth last week before local politicians started tripping over themselves as they set out to help “rescue” the team.

Senator Maziarz starts on-line

Senator George Maziarz today launched an on-line petition on his website, www.senatormaziarz.com, to allow his constituents to express their support for keeping the Buffalo Bills in Western New York.

Bush is best among backs

Today's story looks at the running backs. Heisman Trophy winner Reggie Bush is reluctant to put himself in the class of other great running backs. "I don't like comparing myself," Bush told reporters at the Indianapolis scouting combine, "especially to guys already in the NFL who have done so much, just because they're at a whole 'nother level and I'm still trying to get to that level."

Bills' Wilson should sell stadium's naming rights

With the recent talks of the Buffalo Bills’ demise running rampant of late, many have begun to wonder how the small-market franchise can start pulling in more revenue. Bills owner and president Ralph Wilson has bickered about the NFL’s new collective bargaining agreement being awful for organizations such as his, but he’s yet to take any real action in trying to take the proverbial lemons and make lemonade out of them.

April 16, 2006

NFL antitrust hearings being pushed by Higgins

Touching the nerve center of the National Football League's finances, Rep. Brian Higgins is asking Congress for hearings into whether the NFL's new agreement with the players union violates laws against monopolies. The Buffalo Democrat's letter to the chairman of the House Government Reform Committee mirrors some of the financial problems Buffalo Bills owner Ralph C. Wilson Jr. recently cited. Wilson, however, did not go near the hot-button word "antitrust" in his news conferences and interviews. Higgins did.

Three QBs may break into top 10

This is the first of seven stories sizing up the college talent available for the upcoming National Football League Draft. Today's story looks at the quarterbacks. They are three quarterbacks with three different styles.

Cold gesture against Bills will hurt

I may sound like a conspiracy theorist, but when I consider that half of the Bills' home games in the 2006 NFL schedule will be played after Thanksgiving my suspicion is that it's payback for Ralph Wilson's failure to get in lock step with the majority of owners who suggest that departing Commissioner Paul Tagliabue is the greatest American leader since Abraham Lincoln.

Why Wilson is battling new revenue-sharing plan

The NFL, a $6-billion-a-year business, has a license to print money. That's why Buffalo Bills owner Ralph Wilson is often accused of crying wolf when complaining about the economics of doing business in western New York. The Ralph Wilson I know, though, doesn't cry wolf unless he sees a four-legged hairy beast with big teeth standing at the 50-yard line.

Fourth and long for Buffalo Bills?

Take the Bills out of Buffalo, though, and what you would have is a city, and area, with its heart torn out. Having an NFL franchise in Orchard Park is the No. 1 thing that puts Western New York on the map. Take the Bills out of the equation and it adds up to one big zero.

April 15, 2006

2 elected officials respond to fears of Bills leaving

Two elected officials from Western New York have taken action in response to concerns about the Buffalo Bills leaving town, with one writing a letter to fellow members of Congress and the other launching an online petition.

Wilson finds an ally among owners

Cincinnati Bengals owner Mike Brown said that if people want to criticize Buffalo Bills owner Ralph Wilson over his views on revenue sharing in the NFL, they ought to be fair about it and debate him using "Marquis de Queensbury rules."

Bills report: Inside slant

Some players need a change of scenery to revive their careers. Wide receiver Peerless Price hopes that familiar scenery helps him.

Bills report: Strategy and personnel

The Bills continue to negotiate with CB Nate Clements, who has been given the franchise tag, but a deal isn't close. That was evident when Clements skipped the team's voluntary mini-camp for veterans last weekend.

Bills report: Notes, quotes

The Bills say they could lose between $5 million and $10 million this season unless the NFL's final CBA reflects more liberal revenue sharing. Owner Ralph Wilson, one of two owners to vote against the new labor deal, fears being shut out of a proposed revenue pool of $150 million when rules to qualify are finalized.

Bengals owner Brown defends Bills owner Wilson

Bengals owner Mike Brown went out of his way to defend Buffalo Bills owner Ralph Wilson, who contends that the NFL's new collective-bargaining agreement hurts small-market clubs. Brown set up a meeting with reporters and said he was upset with the personal attacks on Wilson, who is a close friend. Critics have called Wilson out of touch for voting against the agreement because he didn't fully understand it.

"Bills Will Leave Western New York Over My Dead Body"

The message is big and bold from Republican gubernatorial candidate Bill Weld. His press release proclaimed: "Bills will leave Western New York over my dead body." 2 On Your Side’s Stefan Mychajliw: "If you are elected Governor, what will you do to keep the Bills in Buffalo?"

April 14, 2006

J.P. Losman's New Outlook

It's a different year and a much different situation for Bills quarterback J.P. Losman. Last year at this time he was preparing for his first minicamp shortly after being appointed the starting quarterback. This year it's a three-man competition for the starting job under center.

It's inevitable the Bills will eventually go

They've been dropping hints for years as younger, absurdly wealthy owners began assuming power and the old guard died off. We can read between the lines. We know the NFL could do without poor little Buffalo and its economic problems while a potential gold mine in Los Angeles sits empty. Hey, we get it.

Wilson gains political allies

Buffalo Bills owner Ralph Wilson has rallied a lot of political support in his fight for more revenue sharing from the NFL. But he remains a lone wolf in garnering support, at least vocally, from within the league.

April 13, 2006

Bobby April to Join Bisons Home Opener Festivities

The Buffalo Bisons announced today that Bobby April, Assistant Head Coach and Special Teams Coordinator of the Buffalo Bills, will throw out a ceremonial first pitch prior to the Bisons Home Opener, on Friday, April 14 at 6:05 p.m. at Dunn Tire Park.

Feeling Out the Bills Offense

When Steve Fairchild was hired by the Bills as the team's new offensive coordinator this offseason, Bills fans immediately had visions of deep balls soaring downfield. After all Fairchild most recently worked under former Rams head coach Mike Martz who turned to the pass far more often than the run.

Bills Franchise in the Red This Season

The Bills don't plan on losing any games on the field, but the team's financial brass says the League's new collective bargaining agreement will put the franchise in the red this season.

Jim Kelly: Don't Worry About Bills

With the National Football League's new labor deal, the Buffalo Bills' future in western New York is in doubt. Earlier this week, the team's owner Ralph Wilson said he can't guarantee that he won't move the team. Bill's Hall of Fame quarterback Jim Kelly was in Rochester on Wednesday and weighed in on the possibility of the team leaving Buffalo

Bills expect to lose - money

The Buffalo Bills made a profit last year, but less than $10 million, team officials say. This year, under the National Football League's new labor agreement, they expect to lose money, somewhere between $5 million and $10 million. And Bills officials fear their financial situation may only get worse in the coming years.

Bills should shop the delusional Clements

At the Buffalo Bills' first minicamp last weekend, one of the team's most notable players, cornerback Nate Clements, was conspicuous in his absence. However, the fact that Clements failed to show up didn't at all come as a surprise, since he has not yet signed the one-year tender that goes along with being the Bills' franchise player. Should Clements sign the franchise tag tender, he'll earn $7.2 million next season, but don't look for that to happen any time soon.

Bills, the Downward Spiral

I realize that comparing baseball and football is like comparing apples and oranges but just stick with me for a moment. I'm a Bills fan, yet I live in SE Kansas. As a result, I'm also a Royals fan. Anyone that has paid attention to baseball knows that the Royals have not seen a playoff game in 21 years. The Bills are starting a similar trend:

The Buffalo Buffoons

What’s going on in Buffalo these days? Whatever it is, it shouldn’t be making Bills fans proud of their organization.

Bills could pass up No. 8 pick, deal down

The draft stock of Oregon nose tackle Haloti Ngata appears to have slipped a bit and ESPN NFL draft guru Mel Kiper's latest mock draft instead has the Buffalo Bills selecting Florida State defensive tackle Brodrick Bunkley No. 8 overall in the college draft April 29, just after Oakland picks Texas quarterback Vince Young No. 7.

Bills' Wilson is not crying wolf: New CBA may force his hand

To the best of my knowledge, no Mayflower moving vans have been spotted at One Bills Drive. Ralph Wilson hasn't ordered his minions to pack up the helmets and shoulder pads and steal away in the dead of night the way Robert Irsay did while relocating the Colts from Baltimore to Indianapolis roughly two decades ago.

April 12, 2006

Jets, ex-Bill Teague agree to two-year contract

The New York Jets, who last month released six-time Pro Bowl center Kevin Mawae for salary cap reasons, on Wednesday found his replacement, reaching agreement with unrestricted free agent Trey Teague on a two-year contract.

Buffalo Bills 2006 Draft Preview

The first draft of the Dick Jauron era in Buffalo is likely to center on help for both line units. On offense, the team cut underachieving tackle Mike Williams on Feb. 24, their attempt to sign Cardinals guard Reggie Wells was rebuffed when Arizona matched Buffalo's offer, and center Reggie Fowler (Vikings), brought into replace free agent Trey Teague, was the only o- line addition via free agency.

NFL Europe Update: Week 4

Another exiting Saturday night for BuffaloBills.com columnists and Bills Backers of Germany Frank Stritzel and David Lux at the second home game of Rhein Fire in Düsseldorf. After three impressive wins the unbeaten Rhein Fire played the winless Hamburg Sea Devils in a very close and dramatic game. Bills allocated player LT Dylan McFarland did a good job on the Sea Devils' offensive line but couldn't prevent the Rhein Fire of a 31-21. Bills allocated player RB Frederick Jackson had his fourth great game. He finished with 20 rushes for 79 yards and caught two passes for 31 yards. He has 285 yards rushing and he caught 12 passes for 140 yards in the first four games.

Position Battle: Centers of Attention

It's a position that might be the most mentally challenging on the football field after quarterback. The center spot is one that needs to be manned by a cerebral player who also has the physical ability to hold his ground in the face of the 325-350 pound defensive tackles that are growing in numbers in the NFL these days. While the Bills know for sure the position will have a new starter this season, at this point it's uncertain who that starter will be.

Lawmaker Calls For Congressional Hearings On The N.F.L

Buffalo Bills owner Ralph Wilson is considering handing the team over to a family member if that would mean the franchise would stay in Western New York. That comes on the heels of lawmaker Brian Higgins calling for Congressional hearings on the N.F.L.’s new collective bargaining agreement. "In the end, we want to be helpful in keeping this franchise in Buffalo for the longer term," said Congressman Higgins.

'Cue the snow!' say visiting filmmakers

Buffalo's snowy image will remain safe when a National Football League/Reebok commercial being filmed here this week provides television audiences with a glimpse of life in Bills country. Forget that spring has arrived and daffodils are blooming. Out-of-towners will be none the wiser because our home turf will be covered in several inches of fake snow.

Tale of the tape: Wire in mix

Coy Wire got a message on his answering machine a few weeks ago. It was from Lawyer Milloy. The veteran strong safety had been released by the Buffalo Bills but wanted to deliver some parting words of encouragement to Wire. "I saved it because of what he told me," Wire said. "He said that it's my time, and I'm ready. So for him to recognize that in me, it means a lot because he sees me for what I am."

Football fiasco

Every Fall Sunday the thruway jams up, devoted tailgaters ignite their hamburger grills, and the footballs fly in a friendly game of catch, all in support of the Buffalo Bills. Recent developments in the league's collective bargaining agreement, however, threaten the team's ability to compete and paves a possible road for the team to leave town for good.

April 11, 2006

Bills Still Free Agent Shopping

The NFL Draft might be just 18 days away, but the Bills haven't shifted much focus away from the free agent market. A day after signing wide receiver Peerless Price, the Bills hosted Carolina free agent guard Tutan Reyes and Houston free agent running back Jonathan Wells.

Anderson Takes on Nose Job

For Bills defensive tackle Tim Anderson last season was mostly about getting his feet wet. The 2005 season was his first opportunity to play a role in Buffalo's interior defense as the first tackle off the bench behind Sam Adams and Ron Edwards.

Wilson's Talk of Moving the Bills Has Been Heard Before

On Sunday, Bills owner Ralph Wilson said he could no longer guarantee that the team will remain in Western New York. This however isn't the first time, or even the second time, that Wilson has raised the possibility of moving the team out of town.

Schumer reports NFL assurances on impact of pact on Bills

Sen. Charles E. Schumer said Monday that Commissioner Paul Tagliabue had assured him that proposed local revenue provisions in the National Football League will not harm small-market franchises as much as they fear. The senator told The Buffalo News that Tagliabue did not elaborate but said the commissioner agreed to meet with him on Buffalo Bills issues soon in New York City.

Bills find that the Price is still right

One week after trading away one of their top wide receivers, the Buffalo Bills brought in another one you might be familiar with. Peerless Price is back in Buffalo after signing a four-year contract with the team he spent his first four seasons.

The Business and Politics of the NFL

Buffalo Bills owner Ralph Wilson, in a rambling news conference Friday, again attacked the collective bargaining agreement reached between the league and its players. Only two teams—the Bills and the Cincinnati Bengals—voted against it. Those teams claim small market franchises are the big losers in the deal. I’ll tell you to add players to that list.

Worry to the west

As the owner of a National Football League team in a small market, Ralph Wilson has a lot of politics in his playbook. He knows how to leverage his team's status as the most important professional sports franchise in upstate New York. He's done it before — that's how he ended up with millions in state funds to renovate the stadium that bears his name

Fairchild says new Bills offense will have better balance

Ever since the Buffalo Bills signed Green Bay clipboard-carrier Craig Nall to a contract that included a $1.3 million signing bonus, speculation has run rampant in Buffalo that J.P. Losman's days on One Bills Drive are numbered. Let Steve Fairchild, the team's new offensive coordinator, clarify the situation.

Price hopes to revive his career by joining Bills

Peerless Price discovered that the grass isn't always greener on the other side of the football field. Well, at least not on the field. On Monday, Price, 29, rejoined the Bills as a free agent, signing a four-year contract that will pay him a much more modest $2.5 million per season but give him the chance to jump- start his career.

Bills being killed by NFL's big-business

"As I sit here today, this is not a matter of making money for the Buffalo Bills, it's a matter of survival." Those were the words of Bills owner and president Ralph Wilson in what can best be described as an alarming Friday news conference.

April 10, 2006

NFL Schedules Released: Bills Face Early Season Gauntlet

The NFL released schedules a couple of weeks earlier than usual this offseason, likely due to the lack of the quantity of free agent market movement as the NFL has hit a steady state there generally speaking. This bone thrown to the fans should keep fan interests peaked until the draft. Of course after the draft there’s plenty to discuss until the start of training camps.

Amidst a Sea of Controversy, Bills are Still a Bad Team Not Getting Any Better

The recent events regarding Wilson v. the League in a modern day David v. Goliath scenario seem to have Bills fans and NY politicians on edge. Meanwhile, the greater woes of the Bills are being somewhat masked. Perhaps the recent events will create a "surge" at the box office in a "show of force" of sorts of Bills fans for keeping the team in Buffalo or WNY otherwise.

Higgins seeks congressional hearing for Buffalo Bills

Buffalo congressman Brian Higgins called Monday for a congressional hearing into the National Football League's new labor deal, which Bills owner Ralph Wilson says threatens the economic viability of his and the league's other small-market teams.

Bills sign WR Price to one-year contract

Peerless Price is back at the place where he enjoyed his most success. The Buffalo Bills signed the wide receiver to a one-year contract on Monday.

Price Is Right For Bills

The Buffalo Bills today announced that they have signed free agent wide receiver Peerless Price. Terms of the contract weren't disclosed.

NY Senator Meets With Ralph Wilson

Buffalo Bills owner, Ralph Wilson, said the new collective bargaining agreement is putting a lot of pressure on the franchise, and is asking for help.

Jauron Satisfied with Progress of First Camp

With the Bills' first minicamp in the books under Dick Jauron, Buffalo's new head coach was generally content with what the players accomplished over the three days of workouts.

For the Bills the Price is Right

After a visit last week to One Bills Drive, former Bills wide receiver Peerless Price became a member of the Buffalo roster again signing with the Bills earlier today. Price saw the irony in his returning to the team that made him a second round draft pick in 1999.

Wilson's pleas don't matter to NFL sharks

You have to give Ralph Wilson credit for this much: When he goes on the attack, he doesn't fool around. This past week, the Buffalo Bills owner has run his own version of the no-huddle offense, a one-man lobbying effort on behalf of the NFL's small-market franchises.

Injury delays Everett's return

Nearly one year after suffering a serious knee injury, tight end Kevin Everett is still waiting for his NFL career to begin. The 2005 draftee watched from the sidelines as the Buffalo Bills went through three days of minicamp. He was supposed to return to the field this weekend, but aggravated his groin muscle during an on-field workout prior to the camp.

Wilson leaves door open for Bills' exit

Buffalo Bills owner Ralph C. Wilson Jr. told reporters Sunday that the team could relocate if proposed changes to a new National Football League agreement are adopted.

Wilson campaigns against NFL deal

The National Football League's new collective-bargaining agreement was minutes old when Ralph Wilson - one of only two owners opposed - publicly bashed the agreement. The Buffalo Bills founder has escalated the fight with his fellow owners to establish more favorable terms in the agreement, particularly as the deal applies to franchises operating in smaller markets.

Schumer Wants Bills In Buffalo Too

Senator Chuck Schumer says he plans to put pressure on the NFL to help keep the Buffalo Bills in western New York. He plans to call league commissioner Paul Tagliabue Monday.

Schumer offers help to Wilson in revenue-sharing fight

U.S. Senator Charles Schumer, D-New York, has added his support to Buffalo Bills owner Ralph Wilson in his fight against the NFL over revenue sharing. "It makes it hard for small teams to survive in small cities and I want to see the Bills stay in Buffalo," Schumer told reporters on Sunday in a news conference at One Bills Drive.

April 09, 2006

Wilson reconsiders succession plans

Ralph Wilson is reconsidering plans on who eventually will succeed him in owning the Buffalo Bills, saying selling the team might not be the best option under the NFL's new labor deal. Speaking to reporters Sunday after meeting with Sen. Charles Schumer, Wilson said the new collective bargaining agreement could restrict any prospective Bills buyer from receiving revenue-sharing assistance, making it financially difficult to keep the team in Buffalo.

Groin injury latest setback for Bills' TE Everett

Kevin Everett's long-awaited return to practice with the Buffalo Bills has been delayed once again. The tight end hurt his groin and had to miss this weekend's three-day voluntary minicamp.

Schumer advocating for Bills, other small-market teams

Paul Tagliabue's phone is going to ring Monday morning, and on the line will be a rather influential - and concerned - United States senator. "I hope the NFL hasn't lost its way," Schumer said. "I hope it sticks with the original model ... where smaller teams are viable."

Wilson talks with Senator Charles Schumer

Bills Owner Ralph Wilson spoke to the media on Friday to explain the future competitive and financial challenges presented to the NFL's smaller markets. Wilson has enlisted the help of politicians, he met with Governor George Pataki, Erie County Executive Joel Giambra and, most recently, Senator Charles Schumer. Senator Schumer flew into Buffalo on Sunday to meet with Ralph Wilson and told the media that he will do his part to keep the Bills in Western New York.

Jauron Satisfied with Progress of First Camp

With the Bills' first minicamp in the books under Dick Jauron, Buffalo's new head coach was generally content with what the players accomplished over the three days of workouts.

Wilson and Schumer Will Hold Press Conference

Buffalo Bills owner Ralph Wilson and U.S. Senator Charles Schumer are holding a press conference at 3:30.

Kelly Addresses Bills' Future

Former Buffalo Bills quarterback Jim Kelly says the team will not be leaving -- at least not on his watch. Kelly and others with ties to the Bills talked about the team's situation at the Adam's Mark Hotel in Buffalo, at the "Athletes in Action" breakfast.

NFL's new salary cap leads to some wild spending

It's great to be a free agent in the NFL these days. With the new $102 million salary cap, players are getting fat contracts and a great feeling of security. The inflated cap also has driven teams to become free and sometimes overzealous spenders.

Former No. 1 Gibson attempting a comeback

His size and unfulfilled expectations conjure images of Mike Williams. But in 6-foot-6, 375-pound Aaron Gibson, the Buffalo Bills are hoping this former first-round draft pick still has enough talent to match his considerable girth.

Davis moves up in no time

Andre' Davis joined the Buffalo Bills hoping to earn a backup spot behind fellow receivers Eric Moulds and Lee Evans. But with Moulds being traded to Houston, Davis suddenly has a shot to win a starting job.

New breed of NFL owner is killing Bills

It makes you wish even more that Scott Norwood had hit that field goal back in '91. Not since then has Buffalo gotten that close to winning a Super Bowl. Deciphering Bills owner Ralph Wilson's meandering comments Friday, our next Super Bowl moment is further away than ever. Maybe never.

Gibson Glad to Have Second Chance

Gibson was considered one of the most promising offensive linemen after a solid career at Wisconsin that spring. He wound up going to the Detroit Lions with the 27th pick. But unfortunately the weight concerns that followed him cropped up as did injuries.

Former Bills Players Confident the Team Will Stay WNY

Buffalo Bills players from the team's Super Bowl years are confident the football team will stay in Western New York, but they share Owner Ralph Wilson's concerns about this region's ability to keep its team.

Bills, Jets are the least in the AFC East

Last week's NFL trade sending veteran wide receiver Eric Moulds from Buffalo to Houston isn't likely to help make the Texans a playoff team or cost the Bills a playoff berth this year. Both teams appear to be at least a few years away from the postseason.

April 08, 2006

Buffalo Bills Mini-Camp Blog

*Kelly Holcomb was picked off by Liam Ezekiel on a pass intended for Parrish. Losman also threw a pick (Matt Bowen).

*Craig Nall doesn't look like he has a rocket for an arm. It might just be his throwing motion, but he seems to muscle the ball in there sometimes where J.P.'s motion looks more effortless. Coach Fairchild has been telling Nall to throw his passes flatter. So he might be getting too much air under the ball and to make it flatter Nall might be trying to throw it harder. Just how it looks to me.

By the way Nall was first in the rotation in 7-on-7 this afternoon. As Coach Jauron says "read into it what you will."

READ MORE HERE

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Evans Primed for No. 1 Role

Lee Evans officially became the Bills top wideout once the trade of Eric Moulds was made official this past Thursday. But to think that Evans is only now preparing for his new role as the team's number one receiver would be foolish.

Wilson Comes Out Strong, Blasts League and New CBA in Press Conference

Ralph Wilson came out "guns a blazin’" in his Friday press conference expressing deep concerns about the future of the Bills. What exactly he was shooting at was the league’s new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) and the threat that he believes it poses to small and medium market teams. What, if anything, Wilson’s passionate declamation accomplishes remains to be seen.

Giambra joins Wilson in fighting NFL labor deal

Add Erie County Executive Joel Giambra to the growing chorus of leaders who think the recently approved collective bargaining agreement between the National Football League and its players association could be the death knell for the Buffalo Bills.

Many Bills Fans are Concerned

The Bills Franchise, of course, has been a familiar local asset since 1960, and while Ralph Wilson says he plans to keep it that way, his remarks about their economic viability leave many fans concerned. News 4 Senior Correspondent Rich Newberg reports. Patrons at the Pearl Street Grill didn't know what to expect from Ralph Wilson, as they watched his live news conference on WNLO. They only knew they didn't want to lose the Bills.

Wilson sounds alarm on Bills' future

Buffalo Bills owner Ralph C. Wilson Jr. isn't asking for a penny of government help from New York State or Erie County. He also has no interest in having a new stadium built for the Bills. And he has no plans to sell or move the Bills in his lifetime.

QB battle opens with minicamp

The Buffalo Bills have taken the starter label off J.P. Losman, and the young quarterback says he has taken some of the self-imposed pressure off himself. Losman opened the Bills' first minicamp Friday determined to keep his battle for the No. 1 QB job in perspective.

Ralph Wilson: NFL deal threatens Bills' future

The 87-year-old owner reiterated his deep concern about the long-term viability of small- and medium-sized teams such as the Bills. One of the qualifying elements under the new CBA the league will be voting on is to exclude any new owner from revenue sharing. That would deeply impact a future sale of the Bills and keeping them in Buffalo.

Bills report: Inside slant

So just how irrelevant have the Bills become in the eyes of the NFL? When the league's master schedule was released on Thursday, Buffalo joined Detroit, Houston and Tennessee as the only clubs not to receive at least one prime-time appearance on national television.

Bills report: Notes, quotes

-Bills owner Ralph Wilson, one of just two owners to vote against the NFL's new collective bargaining agreement because he said it failed to address the fundamental structure of the league's revenue sharing plan, is taking his case for small-market teams to the political arena.

Bills report: Strategy and personnel

The Bills will give massive offensive lineman Aaron Gibson, a first-round pick of the Detroit Lions in 1999, a chance to resuscitate his career.

Why Bills keep fighting NFL

Why is Ralph Wilson so worried about the Bills' future? Isn't the NFL rolling in money? Indeed, the NFL is thriving like never before. Each franchise, for example, will receive an estimated $100 million in television contract money this year.

Wilson implores politicians for help

Buffalo Bills owner Ralph Wilson said Friday that he doesn't want more money from fans, taxpayers or politicians, or even a new stadium. He also doesn't need help from Rochester billionaire Tom Golisano, who bought the bankrupt Buffalo Sabres.

Bills projected to go 4-12

It's time for our annual pre-NFL draft analysis of the Buffalo Bills schedule and early-bird prediction for the 2006 season:
Sept. 19 at New England — No comment necessary. 0-1.

Nall chasing his No. 1 ambition

Craig Nall sauntered over in his stocking feet. As he positioned himself in front of the cameras for his first mini-camp news conference as a Buffalo Bills quarterback, he appeared relaxed and loose — like he'd been doing this all his life.

April 07, 2006

Clements a No-Show at Bills Minicamp

Nate Clements was a no-show when the Buffalo Bills opened a voluntary minicamp Friday because he failed to accept a one-year contract as the team's franchise player. New coach Dick Jauron said it was important for the star cornerback to attend camp to learn the new defensive system Jauron and coordinator Perry Fewell are implementing.

Bills QB Competition is Underway

It's was only April 7, and it was only the first voluntary minicamp under new head coach Dick Jauron, but for the three men who will be battling it out for the starting quarterback job, the auditions have already begun.

Bills owner questions direction of NFL

Bills owner Ralph Wilson is questioning whether the NFL's high-revenue owners have the best interest of the league at heart, stepping up concerns that small-market franchises like his face an uncertain future under the new labor agreement. "I just don't think they're as interested in the game as the old owners, I really don't," Wilson said Friday.

Giambra Supports Wilson's Comments About The CBA

Erie County Executive Joel Giambra called on football fans throughout Western New York to flood political offices in Albany and Washington with their complaints about the new collective bargaining agreement that is being finalized.

Bills Minicamp Preview

Bills head coach Dick Jauron gets his first opportunity to work with the roster he inherits on Friday as he oversees his first minicamp from April 7-9. While the roster is by no means complete with the free agency period still open and the NFL draft a few weeks away, Jauron and his staff are eager to evaluate their personnel up close and personal instead of on tape.

Bills open at division leaders

It won't take long for the Buffalo Bills to know where they stand in the AFC East in 2006.

Bills' Owner, Local Officials Discuss Team's Future

The owner of the Buffalo Bills and Erie County leaders are getting together today to discuss the team's future in western New York.

Ralph Wilson To Buffalo Bills Fans: I am Not Selling The Team

The owner of the Buffalo Bills and Erie County leaders got together Friday to discuss the team's future in western New York, and Ralph Wilson's point came out loud and clear: Wilson will not be selling the Bills any time soon.

Bills holding news conference this afternoon to discuss team’s future

The Buffalo Bills are holding a news conference this afternoon to talk about the future of the team. Team owner Ralph Wilson is meeting with Erie County officials today to discuss the team’s future in western New York. Earlier this week Wilson said the team's future is in jeopardy because of the NFL's new collective bargaining agreement that forces teams to spend 60 percent of revenues on player salaries.

No prime-time play for Bills in 2006

New Buffalo Bills coach Dick Jauron likes the fact his team will have a chance to test itself against AFC East rivals New England, Miami and the New York Jets the first three weeks of the NFL season. What he isn't happy about is how irrelevant the Bills are in the eyes of the league's power brokers.

April 06, 2006

Ramifications of Wilson’s Visit to See Pataki

Ralph Wilson traipsed off to see the big guns this past week. He and NY State Governor George Pataki met primarily to discuss Wilson’s concerns for the Bills’ future. The biggest outcome of the meeting however might be elevating the issue of the league’s new revenue sharing guidelines to another level altogether.

Fans Support Losman

Sometimes a grain of objectivity goes a long way. Just about all of the e-mail that I’ve received in an offseason where many fans simply don’t even care anymore is fully supportive of Losman to the extent that if he isn’t announced the starter, or at least the favorite, by the time training camp starts, then they will not attend any games this fall. Many have already indicated that they will not renew their season ticket subscriptions. How that pans out remains to be seen.

2006 schedule: Bills play first two on road

Sept. 10: at New England, 1 p.m.
Sept. 17: at Miami, 1 p.m.
Sept. 24: New York Jets, 1 p.m.
Oct. 1: Minnesota, 1 p.m.
Oct. 8: at Chicago, 1 p.m.
Oct. 15: at Detroit, 1 p.m.
Oct. 22: New England, 1 p.m.
Oct. 29: Open date.
Nov. 5: Green Bay, 1 p.m.
Nov. 12: at Indianapolis, 1 p.m.
Nov. 19: at Houston, 1 p.m.
Nov. 26: Jacksonville, 1 p.m.
Dec. 3: San Diego, 1 p.m.
Dec. 10: at New York Jets, 1 p.m.
Dec. 17: Miami, 1 p.m.
Dec. 24: Tennessee, 1 p.m.
Dec. 31: at Baltimore, 1 p.m.

Scheduling twist: Bills open on road

Football fans used to seeing the Buffalo Bills begin the National Football League season at home will have to wait a bit longer in 2006. The NFL, in releasing the schedule for each of its 32 teams, have the Bills playing their opener on the road in New England against the Patriots on Sunday, Sept. 10.

Golisano open to talks on buying Bills, he says

B. Thomas Golisano already is credited with saving one Buffalo sports franchise. If it came down to it, there's a chance he would save a second. The Buffalo Sabres owner and Western New York native said Wednesday he is concerned about the possibility the Buffalo Bills could leave town. It's something that became a major issue this week when Bills owner Ralph C. Wilson Jr. expressed "serious doubt" about the team's long-term viability in Buffalo.

Bills sign quartet of free agents

The Buffalo Bills signed four low-profile free agents with NFL experience on Wednesday. The most noteworthy were cornerback Kiwaukee Thomas and offensive guard Aaron Gibson.

Tom Golisano says he's willing to keep Bills in WNY

Sabres owner Tom Golisano is willing to help keep the NFL Buffalo Bills in western New York. The Rochester billionaire was in town for Wednesday night's Buffalo-Ottawa hockey game. He was asked by reporters if he saw any potential role for himself, in light of Bills owner Ralph Wilson's concerns that the new collective bargaining agreement will hurt the long term viability of small market teams.

Golisano shows interest in Bills

Rochester billionaire Tom Golisano on Wednesday called the Buffalo Bills "a huge asset to this community," and didn't rule out playing a role to ensure the franchise doesn't leave town. "It's concerning to me," said Golisano, who owns the Buffalo Sabres. "I'm very interested in the topic. How I would get involved is undetermined at this point."

Bills report: Notes, quotes

There's a growing belief that the Bills may not be eyeing Oregon DT Haloti Ngata after all with the No. 8 overall pick in the NFL draft. Ngata, who weighs 345 pounds, is a two-gap player whose strength is occupying space like a Sam Adams. But Buffalo's new defensive scheme under Dick Jauron is patterned after Tampa Bay's and requires the defensive linemen to be one-gap specialists, meaning they must penetrate and cause havoc in the backfield.

Bills report: Strategy and personnel

The Bills retained the services of restricted free agent WR Sam Aiken when he agreed to a one-year deal. A fourth-round pick in 2003, Aiken has just two starts in his career but he's an important depth player who emerged as a standout on special teams last season

April 05, 2006

Bills Announce Four Signings

The Bills Wednesday announced that the team has signed free agent DB James Bethea, free agent OL Aaron Gibson, free agent OL Matt Morgan, and unrestricted free agent DB Kiwaukee Thomas.

Levy Ends Losman Trade Rumor

A media report coming out of the NFL Meetings in Orlando last month quoted two unnamed league personnel sources saying they "expect the team (the Bills) to put the former first-round pick (quarterback J.P. Losman) on the trade block before the start of the 2006 season - if he isn't already there."

Eric Moulds Costs Houston a Fourth Round Pick

The Texans and Bills finally agreed on compensation in a deal that lands Moulds in Houston, the Houston Chronicle reports. Buffalo will receive Houston's fifth-round draft pick in the upcoming draft.

Wilson voices concern about Bills' viability

Bills owner Ralph Wilson expressed concerns about the long-term viability of his and other NFL small-market teams during a meeting this week with New York Gov. George Pataki. "While I am committed to Western New York, the long-term viability of our franchise may be in serious doubt," Wilson told Pataki during a private meeting in Albany.

NFL Europe Report: Week Three

The Rhein Fire hit the road again after an impressive win against the Thunder in Berlin last week (22-0) and played the Cologne Centurions in the Rhein Derby (the Rhine River- german Rhein - is flowing through both cities). BuffaloBills.com columnists and Bills Backers of Germany Frank Stritzel and David Lux attended the battle and saw Bills allocated QB Tory Woodbury playing special teams for the Centurions once again without throwing a single pass while the Fire's RB Fred Jackson had a very productive day. He finished with 27 rushes for 97 yards and a TD and caught two passes or 13 yards on his way to a 20-10 victory.

Moulds heads to Texans

Eric Moulds agreed to a contract with Houston on Tuesday and said the Texans have worked out a trade to acquire him from the Buffalo Bills. "Yeah, it's done," said Greg Johnson, Moulds' personal adviser. "I'm ecstatic. I'm relieved, happy and thankful that all parties came to an agreement."

Bills Face Uncertain Future In Buffalo

Buffalo Bills owner Ralph Wilson said he's uncertain about the team's viability in western New York because of a new money-sharing agreement in the NFL. Last month, NFL team owners signed a new deal with players on how to split and share revenue. Wilson, who voted against the agreement, said it favors big city teams and hurts teams from smaller market.

Texans complete deal for Moulds

Eric Moulds finally has a new team. The Buffalo Bills veteran wide receiver, who repeatedly refused requests to cut his $7.1 million salary for the upcoming season, was traded to the Houston Texans on Tuesday for a fifth-round draft pick. "It's a done deal. It's a win-win-win situation," Moulds' personal advisor, Greg Johnson, said.

Moulds in the fold for Texans

Since last season ended, veteran receiver Eric Moulds wondered where he would play in 2006. Tuesday afternoon, Moulds heard the answer he wanted. The Texans and Buffalo Bills finally agreed on compensation, and Moulds became the Texans' starting receiver opposite Andre Johnson. To finalize the deal, the Texans gave the Bills their fifth-round pick in the upcoming NFL draft.

April 04, 2006

Moulds Deal Sealed

The Buffalo Bills have agreed to compensation with the Houston Texans sending their disgruntled WR Eric Moulds for what representatives in the Moulds camp were describing as a second-day pick in the 2006 NFL draft.

The Bills were seeking a 4th round pick, but it appears Houston will be sending over the first pick of the 5th round. Neither team has issued an official statement yet.

“It’s a done deal. It’s a win-win-win situation,’’ said Greg Johnson, Moulds’ personal advisor. Moulds was given permission to seek a trade by the Bills two weeks ago and drew interest from at least five teams, including Houston and Philadelphia. He reached agreement on a four-year, $14 million contract that includes a $5 million signing bonus late last week. Moulds arrived in Houston yesterday to meet with team officials, the coaching staff, and to clear a physical.

Exciting Week for Bills Fans

While the NFL Draft is fast approaching there are other events of major interest to Bills fans coming down the pike this week.

Ralph Wilson Meets with Governor Pataki

Buffalo Bills President and Owner Ralph Wilson, Jr. met Monday with Governor George Pataki in Albany, New York. The purpose of the meeting was to explain to the Governor the future competitive and financial challenges presented to the NFL's smaller markets.

Delivering First Class: Bills Welcome Visitors

"I came in and everybody treated me with the utmost respect. I'm just happy to be here." Those were the words Bills new tight end Robert Royal used with the media after his free agent visit with the Bills in early March. For the Bills it's the reaction they're striving for each and every time an unrestricted free agent is invited to One Bills Drive. Royal signed with Buffalo a short time later.

Report: Texans could land Moulds by Tuesday

Buffalo receiver Eric Moulds vowed he wouldn't return to the Bills, and with his arrival at Houston's Bush Intercontinental Airport on Monday, it seems his wish has come true.

Trade for Moulds hits minor hitch

Negotiations between Texans general manager Charley Casserly and Bills general manager Marv Levy continued Monday. The Bills are asking for a fourth-round pick in the April draft; the Texans are offering a fifth-round pick.

Bills might have a chance at Texas QB Young

Some NFL scouts reportedly believe quarterback Vince Young won't be among the top 10 picks in the NFL draft on April 29.

April 03, 2006

Bills Name Clark Director of Security

The Bills announced today that the team has named Christopher Clark Director of Security.

Levy to Speak at Athletes in Action

The Fifth Annual Athletes In Action: Victory Beyond Competition Experience Breakfast featuring the presentation of the Call To Courage Award will be held on Saturday, April 8, 2006, at 9:00 AM at the Adam's Mark Hotel in Downtown Buffalo. Speaking at this years breakfast will be two National Football League General Managers, Bill Polian, GM of the Indianapolis Colts and Marv Levy, GM of the Buffalo Bills.

Fan Interaction

Regular reader Mark Phillips wrote: Hey, I liked your Part II article on the QB situation. First, anyone who believes Losman should be traded doesn't understand football at all in my opinion.

Vincent Provides Veteran Opinion

Bills free safety Troy Vincent is always busy, whether it's his construction firm, his financial services company, his community work or raising his five children. Over the past year however, he often found himself without a minute to spare. Being president of the NFL Players Association in a year when an extension to the NFL's collective bargaining agreement was necessary the phrase "down time" did not exist.

Bills, Verizon Wireless launch site for Bills fans

The Buffalo Bills and Verizon Wireless today are launching the Buffalobills.com Web site for wireless gadget users. The site is offering updated Bills press releases and news stories, along with roster and schedule information.

April 02, 2006

Losman in limbo while Bills ponder QB dilemma

The signals out of One Bills Drive don't look promising for quarterback J.P. Losman. There are whispers around the league that don't sound promising for Losman, either.

Reports: Texans could get Moulds

The Houston Texans appear close to acquiring veteran Buffalo Bills wide receiver Eric Moulds, several news outlets reported yesterday. Sources told ESPN.com that the Texans have reached an agreement in principle with Moulds on a four-year contract believed to be worth $14 million.

April 01, 2006

Former NFL player named senior pastor

Frank Reich has resigned as president of the Charlotte campus of Reformed Theological Seminary to become senior pastor of Cornerstone Presbyterian, a 70-member Associate Reformed Presbyterian congregation at 9925 Providence Road West in the Ballantyne area of Charlotte. His ordination/installation is set for April 23.

Bills report: Notes, quotes

There's a growing belief that the Bills may not be eyeing Oregon DT Haloti Ngata after all with the No. 8 overall pick in the NFL draft. Ngata, who weighs 345 pounds, is a two-gap player whose strength is occupying space like a Sam Adams.

Bills report: Strategy and personnel

The Bills retained the services of restricted free agent WR Sam Aiken when he agreed to a one-year deal. A fourth-round pick in 2003, Aiken has just two starts in his career but he's an important depth player who emerged as a standout on special teams last season.

Bills report: Inside slant

Rumors are growing that the Bills want to trade quarterback J.P. Losman. But while such a move might make sense for many reasons -- and may indeed eventually take place -- Buffalo's coaching staff has yet to see the team's 2003 first-round draft pick throw a pass in practice.