May 31, 2006
OTA Notes: Gates Enjoying Extra Reps
With Willis McGahee not taking part in the voluntary OTAs, Lionel Gates is making the most of the extra reps he's been receiving.
"We encourage Willis (McGahee) to get here and we would love to have him but since he's not it's an opportunity for me, Shaud (Williams) and Anthony (Thomas) to get some more reps to show the coach that we can be dependable if Willis does go down," said Gates.
Former NFL star makes debut at Open Championships
After a 10-year career in the National Football League, Mark Maddox of Scottsdale, Ariz., became a rookie all over again when he made his first appearance at the Open Championships on Friday.
Bills add defensive back
The Buffalo Bills on Tuesday signed a free agent defensive back who didn't play pro football last year.
Hunter's Hope Candlelight Ball
Tuesday, Hunter's dad, former Buffalo Bills quarterback Jim Kelly, announced this year's 4th Annual Candlelight Ball. The annual event is held here in Rochester and raises important funding for the fight against Krabbe's Leukodystrophy.
This year's candlelight ball will be held on July 28th at the RIT Inn and Conference Center.
May 30, 2006
Bills Sign Ward as OTAs Resume
With a new week of OTAs getting started Tuesday, the Bills also had a new addition to the roster.
Free agent DB LaShaun Ward was signed by the club. Ward has bounced around the league the past couple of seasons spending most of his time on the practice squad of a few teams.
NFL Crystal Ball Time
When all is said and done, the consensus will be that the Buffalo Bills had the best 2006 NFL Draft in the AFC East (excluding player trades and picks given up in the 2005 Supplemental Draft). Donte Whitner and Ko Simpson will make an excellent safety tandem, while John McCargo and and Kyle Williams form a defensive tackle tandem that plays a hard-nosed, disciplined, penetrating style suitable for the style of defense.
Greer a College Graduate
For Jabari Greer his first two years in the NFL were anything but a given. He scraped and clawed to make Buffalo's roster in 2004 as a rookie free agent cornerback.
Lee and Galaxy Win World Bowl XIV
Rob Lee and the Frankfurt Galaxy won an unprecedented fourth World Bowl title after downing the Amsterdam Admirals 22-7 in a hard-fought defensive battle. Amsterdam held a 7-2 half-time advantage but was shut out in the second half.
Wilsons Help Fund New Children's Services Center
On Wednesday, May 24th, Mary M. Wilson, wife of Buffalo Bills owner, Ralph C. Wilson, Jr., presented a special gift to the Western New York community.
A closer look at the Bills' new defensive scheme
Thanks to their new coaching staff, the Buffalo Bills have switched their defensive scheme from a 4-3 to a Tampa 2. Although it is a variation of the Cover 2, rarely are any explanations given on how it works and what the players are expected to do. Because of its proven track record, the Tampa 2 is gaining popularity in the NFL, and the Bills hope to join three other notable teams who use it.
May 29, 2006
Undrafteds in Depth: Nance Could Have a Chance
The 2003 season was a very special one for Bills rookie free agent Martin Nance. Of course when you're a college wide receiver and the quarterback throwing to you is Ben Roethlisberger the odds are good you're going to have solid stats.
What Nance did with Roethlisberger at Miami University was ridiculous. He shattered the school's single season marks for receptions and receiving yards with 90 catches for 1,498 yards along with 11 touchdowns.
He just couldn't win for winning
Chris Hale is proof that it takes a winner to be a loser.
Hale, a former cornerback for Southern Cal and the Buffalo Bills, was certainly a winner during his football career. He played in two Pop Warner championship games, one high school championship game, one junior college championship game, two Rose Bowls and three Super Bowls.
Q & A with Buffalo Bills fullback Jon Goldsberry
When former Purdue standout special teamer/backup linebacker Jon Goldsberry entered the NFL prior to last season, he wasn't sure what the league would have in store for him. He went undrafted, and was soon signed by the Buffalo Bills, who released him prior to the season, only to re-sign him shortly thereafter. Subsequently, he spent the season on the Bills' practice squad, so the coaches could properly develop him as a fullback.
Remember Kalsu on Memorial Day
Today, being Memorial Day, is a time to remember the legacy of the Bob Kalsus. Kalsu, an All-American tackle at Oklahoma in 1967, could have easily joined a reserve or National Guard unit after a successful rookie season with the Buffalo Bills.
May 28, 2006
Bills Team Report
OLB Jeff Posey may be the answer to the he team's search for a fourth defensive end. He broke into the league as an end nine years ago in San Francisco. He was moved to linebacker two years into his career but was used as a rush end on passing downs by Houston and recorded a career-high eight sacks in 2002. He shows good instincts as a pass rusher and has the size (6-4, 241), strength and toughness to take on blockers and play the run.
NFL should keep politics out of search for new commissioner
Jeb Bush, the governor of Florida, showed a lot more sense than the NFL search committee in turning down the league's invitation to become its next commissioner. What the NFL needs is someone running the league who is deeply experienced in football. The game's the thing, which too many owners keep forgetting.
Price hopes second term is like his first
Peerless Price walked into Ralph Wilson Stadium earlier this week and all the old memories started coming back. The big catches. The 50-yard touchdowns. The cheers from adoring fans.
After a three-year absence, the Buffalo Bills' prodigal wide receiver has come home. And after going through his first on-field workouts this week, he said it feels like he never left.
Losman starts over
My how times have changed for J.P. Losman.
A year ago at this time, the Buffalo Bills quarterback was set to take over as the starter. At just 24, Losman was stepping into one of the most high-profile jobs in Western New York.
But after a 2005 season that saw Buffalo go 5-11 and Losman struggle as the starter, the franchise went through a major reorganization.
May 27, 2006
Getting to Know the Lesser Known Linemen – Part II
In part two of our two-part series on some of Buffalo's newest offensive linemen we get a better handle on a couple of players in Matt Morgan and Jason Thomas, who have spent some time in the league, but have limited experience on Sundays. We'll also take a closer look at seventh round pick Terrance Pennington.
No-show Bills send a troubling message
It isn't a good sign that 11 veteran Buffalo Bills skipped this week's three-day "organized team activity."
The sessions were voluntary, but one would think that players on a less-than-average NFL team would want to impress a new general manager and coaching staff and get a head start on learning a new system.
Bills report: Inside slant
Linebacker London Fletcher would have had good reason to be upset with the Bills front office for using the team's No. 8 overall pick in the draft on a strong safety and not a beefy defensive tackle.
Bills report: Notes, quotes
The Bills were elated to land defensive backs Ashton Youboty in Round 3 and Ko Simpson in Round 4. Each could have been picked in the first or second round and critics wouldn't have raised an eyebrow.
Bills report: Strategy and personnel
It may not mean much in May, but second-year TE Brad Cieslak has moved up to No. 2 on the depth chart behind free agent Robert Royal.
May 26, 2006
Bills' owner, wife help fund hospice facility
Ralph Wilson, owner of the Buffalo Bills, and his wife, Mary, have donated $500,000 towards construction of a new children's services center at the Hospice Mitchell Campus.
Getting to Know the Lesser Known Linemen – Part I
Everyone is familiar with Buffalo's five starters up front on offense from last season. But coming off of free agency and the NFL draft there are plenty of new faces among the corps of offensive linemen for the Bills.
Buffalobills.com checked in with offensive line coach Jim McNally as well as some of the players themselves to get a snapshot of their style of play and where they'll be competing come late July.
Tight end Cieslak climbs Bills' depth chart
Brad Cieslak isn't a name most Buffalo Bills fans would recognize, but he certainly has gotten the coaching staff's attention. He is currently listed as the second-string tight end behind veteran free-agent pickup Robert Royal.
Bills not worried about no-show McGahee
Buffalo Bills star running back Willis McGahee attended the start of the team's off-season workout program in February. He hasn't been seen at One Bills Drive since.
But his teammates and coaches can see him this week on the NFL Network, where he is co-hosting in studio with Rich Eisen from Los Angeles.
Holcomb starting won't lead to victories for Buffalo
With summer's training camp getting ever closer for the Buffalo Bills, there's been a lot of discussion as to who will be the team's starting quarterback next season. The Bills' top three quarterbacks, in no particular order, are Kelly Holcomb, Craig Nall and J.P. Losman. If Holcomb ends up being named the starter by head coach Dick Jauron, it likely won't mean big things for the 2006 version of the Bills. Instead, it'll simply mean more mediocrity for a team that has grown all-too-familiar with underachieving over the last six seasons.
May 25, 2006
OTA Wrap-up – Defense Has Strong Final Day
Buffalo's defense dominated in the final session of the four-day set of OTAs this week. The secondary was responsible for three interceptions on the day and the defensive line notched a fumble recovery.
Berger wins Wilson scholarship
East Amherst native Samantha Berger became a beneficiary of Wilson's generosity by becoming the first recipient of the Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Jefferson Scholarship to Virginia. His endowment allows his alma mater to award a scholarship as part of the national Jefferson Scholars Foundation.
Levy, 81, pitches his walker for a sprint with Bills
Marv Levy didn't tiptoe back into pro football.
He bounded back.
At his age, 81, there's not much time to waste.
Ralph Wilson Jr., the 87-year-old owner of the Buffalo Bills, was in a hurry, too.
McGee stands out as Bills' premier player
Quick, name the Buffalo Bills' best player. Willis McGahee? No. Takeo Spikes? No. Nate Clements? No. Still not sure? Well, the answer's simple, it's Terrence McGee. The cornerback/kick-return dynamo has become the most electrifying player the Bills have had on their roster in a long time. Quietly, McGee stands out as perhaps the best two-way threat the NFL has to offer today.
May 24, 2006
New Talent Ratchets Up DT Competition
Bills defensive tackle Tim Anderson didn't have a whole lot to worry about two months ago with respect to competition for the starting role he currently holds next to free agent acquisition Larry Tripplett on Buffalo's defensive line.
Inside the Bills
WILLIS WATCH: Thought you might be interested to know you can find Willis McGahee talking football on the NFL Network Wednesday night through Friday night in studio for the NFL Total Access program. I believe he'll be there in person today and tomorrow and they'll re-run his Thursday appearance Friday evening.
Jeb Bush Is Approached About Running NFL
Florida Gov. Jeb Bush said he was privately approached about his interest in becoming the NFL's next commissioner. Bush said Tuesday the issue was discussed at a recent meeting with Patrick Rooney Sr., according to the South Florida Sun-Sentinel. Rooney's brother is Dan Rooney, owner of Super Bowl champion Pittsburgh Steelers and co-chair of the search committee looking to replace the retiring Paul Tagliabue.
May 23, 2006
Bills: Likely To Stay Or Go?
Buffalo Bills owner Ralph Wilson recently said the team's future here could be in jeopardy. We decided to look into how serious that prospect still might be.
When Wilson speaks Western New York listens. And when he recently questioned the long-term stability of the team in the area, local leaders lined up to help.
Update on Buffalo Bills in NFL Europe
Buffalo Bills QB prospect Craig Ochs has his Frankfurt Galaxy squad on the cusp of a World Bowl appearance and a shot at the NFLE crown. They need one more victory to secure a spot in the Championship game.
Meanwhile the Bills’ Fred Jackson is second in the league in rushing, and is amongst the leaders in special teams and all- purpose yardage. He has become a solid versatile running back and the league's best return man.
Ochs is the second-rated passer in the league after nine games. He has completed 82 of 136 attempts for 993 yards and six touchdowns. He has thrown only four interceptions while completing more than 60 percent of his passes, for a league second-best QB rating of 85.2.
Frankfurt is 6-3, but 6-1 in games in which Craig Ochs starts. In fact, the loss last week to Amsterdam, in which Ochs uncharacteristically suffered two interceptions, was his first defeat as a starter. Ochs has had help fitting into the system from Frankfurt quarterbacks coach Biff Parson. The Galaxy have used their big wide receivers Aaron Hosack (6-5, 210), Walter Young (6-4, 215) and Adam Herzing (6-3, 205) to produce a high-percentage passing game.
Out of the University of Montana, the undrafted Ochs signed as a free agent with the San Diego Chargers last summer and was later released. He kept himself in shape throughout the football season and signed with the Buffalo Bills. The organization sent him to Europe to hone his skills, and he has taken advantage of the opportunity.
"I just came into this with the mind-set that I wanted to get some things accomplished," Ochs said in a phone interview from his Frankfurt hotel room this week. "The most important thing was to get back on the field and show that I could make plays, read the field and lead a team."
Ochs faces stiff competition to make the Buffalo Bills 53-man roster to open the 2006 season. Right now he’s 4th on a 3 QB depth chart behind JP Losman, veteran journeyman Kelly Holcomb, and newly acquired free agent Craig Nall- also a former NFLE passing leader.
He has passed Tory Woodbury, the 5th QB under contract. Showing some promise last season in camp, Woodbury was re-signed by the Bills and also sent to NFL Europe. Injuries to ligaments in his foot ended his season before it could get started.
The Bills again have a good prospect out of the backfield in RB Fred Jackson . Whether returning, rushing or receiving, Fire running back Fred Jackson gets the job done. He’s second in the league with 577 rushing yards on 135 attempts. Jackson also added 315 yards (second on the Fire). His 5-4 Rein Fire are trying to catch Och’s Galaxy for the final spot in the World Bowl game.
This season Jackson has stayed true to those claims by gaining countless extra-effort yards after initial contact. He’s totaled 1,061 combined net yards this season and is the only running back of the top three in the league to have balanced yardage across the board.
Jackson makes a living by being versatile, and offensive coordinator Steve Logan says he couldn’t ask for more. “His lower body strength has been the most surprising thing for me. He’s a real slender hip athlete, but he’s incredibly strong in the lower body and his yards after contact are impressive,” said Logan. “And to top it off, his hands are impeccable and he catches everything thrown to him.”
Left Tackle Dylan McFarland has been starting for the otherwise disappointing Hamburg Sea Devils. A team mate of Craig Ochs at Montana , his steady play has earned him a place on the final ballot of the All- NFL Europe team to be determined at the conclusion of the season.
The Sea Devils offense has exploded in the past two weeks, scoring 51 points in their back-to-back victories. Quarterback Brock Berlin (Miami Dolphins) has thrown four touchdowns and for 387 yards coming off the bench.
The Sea Devils success throwing the ball may be partly down to the fact that their quarterbacks are the least sacked in NFL Europe this season. They will aim to retain that mark in this final game against an Amsterdam defense that ranks second with 17 sacks.
“It is a big goal for us to keep that record and one thing that we still have left to play for,” says tackle Dylan McFarland. “We have a good offensive line and that is something that we can walk away with to show what we have accomplished this year as a unit. We all can’t be like quarterbacks, wide receivers and running backs and get all of the glory, but this is one that we have a lot of pride in.”
Kicker Nick Setta is 8/11 in Field goals for the Cologne Centurions.
Safety Rob Lee of Frankfurt has a lot of competition when the Bills open training camp in July with the Bills spending three of their first four picks in the draft on defensive backs, including safeties Donte Whitner and Ko Simpson. He has one interception with a 40 yard return. He’s also registered 28 total tackles.
Hamburg Sea Devils defensive tackle and Bills prospect Tai Tupai has similar competition. Since his departure to Europe the Bills have acquired Larry Triplett from the Colts in free agency, as well as drafting Johnny McCargo and Kyle Williams. A backup on the Sea Devils- he has managed 1 sack and 6 tackles.
Posey More Than a Linebacker for Bills?
The subject has been raised before in his time with the Bills, and now in year four with Buffalo Jeff Posey could return to his positional roots at times again. Excelling in college as a defensive end at Southern Mississippi, Posey was moved to linebacker in his third NFL season while still with San Francisco. Since then the closest he's come to playing a role similar to that of a pass rushing defensive end was as an outside linebacker in Houston's 3-4 defensive scheme back in 2002. That year he led the Texans with eight sacks.
Everett looks to change Buffalo's tight end history
Throughout their history the Buffalo Bills have been known for a host of different individual performers. O.J. Simpson. Jim Kelly. Thurman Thomas. Andre Reed. Bruce Smith. However, one thing they haven't been known for in their 45-year history is outstanding play from their tight ends. The most productive tight end in Bills history, Pete Metzelaars, played in Buffalo between 1985-1994. The Bills have since tried to find his heir apparent, but have failed.
May 22, 2006
Bills OTA Notebook: Price of Admission
Bills receiver Peerless Price arrived in town last week to begin preparation for his first OTA in his second go round with the Bills which began today in the team's fieldhouse.
"It felt good," said Price of his first practice. "I know the surroundings, I'm getting used to my teammates. So it went well."
Coaches Passing On Their Expertise
In the Ralph Wilson Fieldhouse last Saturday there was chalk flying, overhead projectors running and on field demonstrations executed by Bills players. And it was all for the Western New York high school and college football coaches in attendance.
Bills and Laidlaw Agree to Sponsorship Deal
The Buffalo Bills announced today that the team and Laidlaw signed a sponsorship deal making the bus company the official transportation provider for the Buffalo Bills. In accordance with club policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Laidlaw newest Bills sponsor
The Buffalo Bills have added a bus company to their list of corporate sponsors.
Laidlaw has signed on for marketing deal to become the transportation provider with the football franchise. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Lee and Ochs Head to World Bowl
Week 10 in NFL Europe decided who will face Amsterdam Admirals (7-2) in World Bowl XIV. Two teams had a shot at advancing to the championship, both of them with Buffalo Bills players, the Frankfurt Galaxy (6-3) with QB Craig Ochs and S Rob Lee needed a win against the Berlin Thunder (2-6-1), while RB Fred Jackson and the Fire (5-4) needed a win over the Cologne Centurions (4-5) AND a Galaxy loss to advance.
In a group of small receivers, Aiken stands out
These days, nobody would accuse the Buffalo Bills' receivers of being too tall to play the position. Nope, no Harold Carmichaels in this group. Instead, the Bills' current top five is solidified by Lee Evans (5-10, 197 pounds), Peerless Price (5-11, 190), Andre' Davis (6-1, 194), Josh Reed (5-10, 208) and Roscoe Parrish (5-9, 168).
May 21, 2006
Hold on! Kollar talks to committee about penalties
Buffalo Bills assistant coach Bill Kollar admits that holding probably could be called on every play in the NFL.
Of course, that's exactly what you would expect him to say. He's a defensive line coach.
Bills should emulate overachieving Sabres
The Bills, in their worst playoff drought in 20 years, can still learn plenty from these sizzling Sabres, who have made a Phoenix-like rise out of Chapter 11, a labor lockout, and their own sustained postseason absence to write the most inspirational chapter of their storied albeit Cup-less history.
May 20, 2006
Ex-Badger Evans pays visit to Beloit
It was not hard to get University of Wisconsin football great and current Buffalo Bills' wide receiver Lee Evans to come to Beloit Friday afternoon.
Not just because he is dating the daughter of a Beloiter, but because he loves the Dairy State
Bills report: Strategy and personnel
The Bills hope to get some answers for their many offensive line questions over the next three weeks during a series of organized team activities.
Bills report: Inside slant
One man's trash is another man's treasure.
That axiom is playing itself out when it comes to two very big offensive linemen in the NFL, one now a Buffalo Bill.
Bills report: Notes, quotes
The Bills will conduct a series of three-day organized team activities over a three-week period starting next week. The team's new coaching staff did a good chunk of installation work in two previous voluntary camps.
May 19, 2006
Bills Team Report
PERSONNEL ANALYSIS: Second-year TE Brad Cieslak has been one of the early surprises this offseason. The former practice squad player who was called up to the active roster the final two games last season has vaunted to the No. 2 tight end on the depth chart. Cieslak (6-3, 262) has surprised and impressed the new coaching staff with his good speed and athleticism.
The Word on Mark Word
He was quietly added to Buffalo's roster back on Jan. 19. He had accrued four years of playing experience in the league in stops with Kansas City, Cleveland and Oakland. But who exactly was Mark Word?
Bills pro personnel director John Guy aimed to find out.
Bills: Who should be the QB?
The old saying goes, if you have two quarterbacks, you don't have one. And that's exactly what Buffalo is facing as it decides between shaky youngster J.P. Losman and journeyman stopgap Kelly Holcomb.
Long list for Short Guy Hall of Fame
When pint-sized quarter-back Doug Flutie retir-ed earlier this week, it hit me like a 6-foot-5 linebacker.
Almost all hall of famers, regardless of sport, have one thing in common - they're huge. But when it comes to short guys (this coming from a 5-8 sports columnist), we get the short end of the stick.
Bills' Gibson might be offensive line's X-factor
With little fanfare, the Buffalo Bills signed 6'7", 370-pound offensive lineman Aaron Gibson to an undisclosed contract last month. The signing probably won't end up as anything but a mere footnote, but Gibson is hoping it turns into much more. The former Detroit Lion, Dallas Cowboy and Chicago Bear signed with the Bills hoping for another chance to prove himself after what has been an abysmal career, and he may have found it.
May 18, 2006
Putting the Cart Before the Horse? Part 3
Some say that this past season’s Bears team is partially the culmination of Jauron’s work. It may very well be and little argument can be made that Jauron did not at least have some hand in creating it.
But let’s be honest here, the Bears this past season played only three teams during the regular season that had above average offenses.
Cieslak Grabbing Attention at Tight End
In 2005 Brad Cieslak was a member of the Bills practice squad before getting called up to the active roster late in the year for special teams duty the final two weeks of the season. The practice squad is often viewed as a haven for players like Cieslak to hone their techniques and skills while providing the starters with a good look at what the opponent might run that Sunday.
The Flutie factor
In looking at Doug Flutie, who retired from professional football this week, many western New Yorkers can't help but think back to 1998, when Flutie, at quarterback, provided excitement at Buffalo Bills games with his scrambling play and last-second heroics.
Flutie-Johnson debate rages on
If there’s one thing that Doug Flutie’s retirement proved this week, it’s the fact that time has done nothing to heal the wounds suffered by Buffalo Bills fans in the ongoing and always lively and enthusiastic Flutie versus Rob Johnson debate.
McGahee doesn't fit Levy's "character" Bills
Since becoming the Buffalo Bills general manager in January, 80-year-old Marv Levy's biggest emphasis has been on the character of his players. At his introductory press conference, he was quoted as saying, "Ability without character will lose." At this point, the biggest name on the Bills' roster that seems to fit into that particular statement is Willis McGahee, Buffalo's starting running back.
Manicures and massages are all in a day's work for spa owner Troy Vincent
Bills cornerback Troy Vincent has packed a lot into his 34 years. He has made five Pro Bowls; he and his wife, Tommi, have five children; he's president of the NFL Players Association; and he operates three New Jersey-based businesses he started when he played for the Eagles. There's Eltekon financial services; Troy Vincent Development and Construction; and what is no doubt his most invigorating enterprise: Essence, the Ewing, N.J., spa.
May 17, 2006
The razzle-dazzle has faded, but the thrills stay vivid
In a state with an abundance of professional football fans divided mainly between legendary traditions in Pittsburgh and Philadelphia, surely there is room for a small testimonial for a phenomenal player from elsewhere.
Sports fans, indeed, Americans in general, love the underdog, the little guy who, against all odds, prevails. That was quarterback Doug Flutie. The little guy, at age 43, retired Monday, ending a marvelous career that will be the colorful stuff of tall tales for years to come.
April Set for New Beginning
Four short months ago Bobby April's special teams unit was again tops in the NFL. The Bills specialists became the first unit in the history of the league to turn the trick in back-to-back seasons. But overall the Bills were a mess. A 5-11 campaign fell far below expectations and there were going to be changes.
Flutie made anything seem possible
The quarterback was supposed to pitch the ball, but the running back went the wrong way. With only a few seconds remaining, there was no time to think, only to react. The quarterback faked the toss, ran around left end and into the end zone for a touchdown. Game over. Buffalo Bills win. The play was vintage Doug Flutie. Spontaneous. Unpredictable. Miraculous. Magical.
Bruce Smith gets the call for College Football Hall of Fame
Bruce Smith, the former Booker T. Washington, Virginia Tech and Buffalo Bills star, will soon become just the third local product and only the fourth Hokie player enshrined in the College Football Hall of Fame.
Little Flutie just ahead of his time
I still believe Flutie's biggest problem as a pro quarterback had little to do with his lack of height or questionable arm strength and more to do with his timing. Not of his passes, but of his birth.
A Warm Welcome to NFL Coaching
This past weekend the NFL held its career development symposium for coaches in Orlando, Florida. For Bills first-year quality control coach Alex Van Pelt it was a wealth of information. "It was pretty impressive," said Van Pelt. "They had a big lineup of names of speakers and coaches who talked about a lot of issues."
May 16, 2006
Putting the Cart Before the Horse? Part 2
Since it is opponents’ ability to run that sets the tone for the passing game, it is clear that the emphasis should be on stopping the run, … for teams desirous of actually being in the running to compete with the best that is. If opponents can run, they do, and passing yardage will typically be lower. If teams cannot run, or are not in a position to be able to run (trailing by too much, e.g.), then passing yardage is typically and often much higher. Again, common sense, not some mystical formulation that only ESPN and NFL "experts" and professional analysts can see through.
Part 1
Flutie, a favorite of fans, decides to call it a career
Doug Flutie never lost his passion for playing, despite being labeled too short and too much of a scrambler. Now, after 21 years as a pro, including three with the Buffalo Bills, he's leaving the football field — and maybe even his critics — behind.
Flutie walks tall into retirement
Doug Flutie never lost his passion for playing despite being labeled too short and too much of a scrambler. Now, after 21 years as a pro, he's leaving the football field - and maybe even his critics - behind. The local hero who won the Heisman Trophy, helped keep the Bills in Buffalo and made the NFL's first drop kick in 64 years announced his retirement Monday after spending his final season as backup quarterback for the New England Patriots.
Reed makes Bills' Wall of Fame
When Andre Reed graduated from Kutztown University during Mother's Day weekend of 2005, his mother Joyce Reed-Ebling called it ''the best Mother's Day present I could ever receive.''
Former Vols take a similar path
Former Vols Jabari Greer and Jason Hall have a lot in common. Both were fan favorites at Tennessee, both graduated this weekend, neither were NFL draft picks, and both will be in camp with the Buffalo Bills this summer. Hall is a defensive end just trying to catch on with an NFL team. He was a priority free agent signee for Buffalo and he just finished his first NFL mini camp.
Flutie's retirement triggers memories in Buffalo
Monday, former Buffalo Bills quarterback Doug Flutie finally retired from football at the age of 43. The 5'9" Flutie played his entire career as the underdog, and always seemed to persevere.
Fairchild Sees Strides, But More Work Ahead
Bills offensive coordinator Steve Fairchild knows it's still early in the process of getting his playbook firmly etched in the minds of his offensive players. But to this point he's seen positive steps taken toward that end.
May 15, 2006
Bills’ Reed latest name on ‘The Wall’
With the first of their two fourth-rounders, General Manager Terry Blesdsoe, Coach Kay Stephenson and Director of Player Personnel Norm Pollom opted for a former high school quarterback who switched positions when he got to a Division II school in southeastern Pennsylvania. And, as it turned out, that trio hit two home runs in the 1985 draft. Wide receiver Andre Reed wasn’t voted into the Hall of Fame last February, in his first year of eligibility, but he made the final 25.
Quarterback Doug Flutie announces retirement after 21 pro football seasons
Doug Flutie retired from pro football Monday, ending a 21-year career in which the Heisman Trophy winner puzzled both opposing defences and his own coaches with his unconventional style at quarterback.
Bills could learn a lot from Buffalo's "other" franchise
The Sabres entered the season with experts and fans expecting little more than a dead-end year. This offseason, the Buffalo Bills have been thought of by experts as little more than a team likely to finish in last place, or close to it in 2006.
Star receiver Reed to join Bills' Wall of Fame
When wide receiver Andre Reed was playing football for the Buffalo Bills, he was too busy setting records and going to four consecutive Super Bowls to reflect on his accomplishments. It took retirement for that.
Reed's Honor Has Good Timing
For the second straight Mother's Day Andre Reed has come up huge. "Last Mother's day he graduated from college," said his proud mom Joyce. "He got his college degree. It was in criminal justice. He always wanted to be state trooper. He always wanted to give people tickets (laughing)."
Come this fall, the Bills all-time leading receiver will have to give tickets to an innumerable number of friends and family who will proudly witness his name unveiled on the Buffalo Bills Wall of Fame, as the club announced his naming to the Wall Sunday.
Reed to join Bills' Wall of Fame
The Buffalo Bills announced Sunday they will add the name of retired receiver Andre Reed to the Ralph Wilson Stadium Wall of Fame.
May 13, 2006
Buffalo: Land of the fans who know about losing big, but still keep cheering
Those with the least to shout about often yell loudest, cries of the futile that range from "Go Leafs Go" to, until recently, "Let's Go Red Sox."Here they chant "Let's Go Buff-A-Lo," varying between emphatic and confident, and desperate and pleading. It is the rallying cry of arguably the most faithful fans in professional sports. "They're second to none. These people ... all they look for is the excitement," says Rob Ray, the beloved former enforcer with the Buffalo Sabres, who still resides in the area. "They don't care if you win or lose as long as you're out there and you give an effort."
Bills report: Inside slant
The Bills ranked 31st in the league in stopping the run last year, but they were also bad against the pass. Buffalo allowed a whopping 48 pass plays of 20 or more yards, and their last-place rankings on third down and in the red zone were mainly the result of being burned through the air at critical junctures. Improving the secondary was a prime consideration this off-season for new general manager Marv Levy and coach Dick Jauron, who added six new players to the mix: free agents Matt Bowen, Kiwaukee Thomas and James Bethea and draft choices Donte Whitner, Ashton Youboty and Ko Simpson.
Bills report: Notes, quotes
Coach Dick Jauron appreciated that veteran LB Takeo Spikes attended Buffalo's recent three-day mini-camp for rookies and newcomers with other veterans. Spikes, recovering from Achilles' tendon surgery, took "mental" reps while doing light jogging on the side. Jauron said Spikes set a fine example for the rookies. "We've stressed in team meetings that this is what it takes," Jauron said. "You can't expect to win on Sunday if you haven't put in all the time prior to that. They're aware of it and when you have veteran players who live it, it's a lot better."
May 12, 2006
Mom’s Young Man in the Middle
With Mother's Day approaching Buffalobills.com wanted to get some comment from a proud mom of one of the Bills recent draft picks. While it's safe to say every mother is proud of their kids, Joan McCargo is still on 'cloud nine' when she thinks about what lies in front of her son John, Buffalo's second pick in the 2006 Draft. Mrs. McCargo shared a bit of her son's upbringing in small town Virginia and just what John is like as a person.
Putting the Cart Before the Horse? Part 1
Defense wins championships, right? Well does it? Regular readers have heard me rant up one wall and down another that the crux of any good championship caliber NFL team is its lines, both offensive and defensive off of which flow solid rushing and the ability to stop opponents from running the football. In actuality, it’s not just myself, but many understand that "the war is won in the trenches" when it comes to the NFL.
ARSN Interview: Joe Ferguson
Arguably one of the greatest quarterbacks to ever compete at the high school, collegiate and professional levels, Arkansas fans can proudly call Joe Ferguson one of its own.
Bills should lock up Peters long-term
It would be unwise of the Buffalo Bills' front office to allow Peters to test the free agent waters next offseason because he very well could find a lucrative contract. He's unknown to most, but a player similar to him, Kyle Kosier, was paid $16 million this offseason by the Dallas Cowboys . However, in recent years the Bills haven't necessarily been adept to paying that kind of money for offensive linemen, which may be cause for concern in Buffalo. Peters may follow Kosier's lead and earn a fairly large contract in return for adding steadiness to a team's line.
Another Kelly shuffles to Buffalo
En route to the NFL Hall of Fame, quarterback Jim Kelly led the Buffalo Bills to four straight Super Bowls. Now, make room for another Kelly (considering his size, make plenty of room) in the Buffalo football picture. Brian Kelly, Jim's 6-6, 310-pound nephew, has signed to play at the University of Buffalo.
May 11, 2006
Coach McNally Q&A
Periodically Buffalobills.com will sit down with one of the members of Dick Jauron's staff to check in on developments concerning their position group or side of the ball. In this installment Lead Journalist Chris Brown got an update on the handle offensive line coach Jim McNally has on his men up front. With eight new linemen from last year and only a couple of offseason OTAs in the bag McNally is still getting a feel for his linemen, but had some candid responses as well.
Former LSU star Williams learns pro game
Former LSU All-American Kyle Williams is a quick study -- he's already learned the difference between college and pro football after just one minicamp.
"You can definitely tell that this is a business and that every player is fighting for a position," Williams said. "It wasn't like college where the seniors are trying to help the young guys along. You have guys trying to make a living and that's how they go about their business."
Bills name two VPs
The Buffalo Bills promoted executive Linda Bogdan to the position of vice president, assistant director of college and pro scouting.
Bogdan, the only active female scout in the NFL, is the daughter of team owner Ralph C. Wilson Jr. and previously served as the Bills' corporate vice president. She has also worked in the team's scouting department since 1986.
The Bills also promoted Mary Owen to the position of vice president of strategic planning. Owen, Wilson's niece, has served in various positions with the team, including as the creator of the team's Web site.
SVSU's DiGiorgio gets chance he wanted with Buffalo Bills
Even though he went undrafted, the former SVSU star is working for an NFLjob.
When John DiGiorgio reported for his first professional football meeting over the weekend, he sat next to Anthony Thomas, the former University of Michigan running back.
"It's kind of weird," the former Saginaw Valley State University linebacker said. "I grew up watching him on television."
Posey to DE is an interesting option for the Bills
Buffalo Bills strong side linebacker Jeff Posey has drawn a lot of criticism since joining the team as a free agent prior to the 2003 season. He was brought over from the Houston Texans , where he had eight sacks in 2002, to be a pass-rushing linebacker for the Bills. However, in four seasons with the Bills he has compiled just 9.5 sacks. Why? Because his specialty in rushing the opposing quarterback lies in the 3-4 defensive alignment. In Buffalo, the 30-year-old has been and still is stuck in a much different scheme, the 4-3.
May 10, 2006
Jason Peters Signs Tender
Buffalo Bills OT Jason Peters has signed his restricted free agent 1-year tender of $425,000.
Peters was signed by the Buffalo Bills as an undrafted free agent in 2004 originally as a 325 lb TE. Used in goal line situations, he had only 2 career receptions for 4 yards, with one touchdown.
A demon on special teams in 2004, he was also credited with a blocked punt recovered for a touchdown vs. Cincinnati.
Blessed with tremendous physical skills, he took over for struggling former #1 pick Mike Williams in 2005 at right tackle and has held the job ever since. He started 10 games at RT in 2005.
Fewell’s First Impressions
Bills defensive coordinator Perry Fewell was given more than a handful of rookie talent after Buffalo's 2006 draft came and went. Rookie talent that in some cases will have to produce early on a defensive unit with holes to fill. After seeing his newest pupils up close and personal he sees potential.
Higgins puts action against NFL on hold
Rep. Brian Higgins said Tuesday he is putting off - for now - his request for hearings on whether the National Football League's dealings with the Buffalo Bills violate federal antitrust laws.
Riding Along with Willis McGahee
I didn't expect Willis McGahee to be such a simple guy. I expected the former Miami tailback to live in some obscene, 10,000-square foot home. Instead, he had three pieces of furniture in the living room of his condominium at the Ritz-Carlton in Coconut Grove.
May 09, 2006
Readers defend Bills' decision to stay put in draft
Since we're all probably a little Bushed out this week -- Reggie Bush, that is -- let's start this week on the subject of Marv Levy and the Buffalo Bills. Specifically, did the Bills do the right thing in staying at No. 8, instead of taking a fairly lucrative offer of a second- and fourth-round draft pick from Denver to move down seven spots in the first round?
Spikes, Vincent lead Bills' character defenders
Those were the words of Buffalo Bills general manager Marv Levy when he took the reins in January. Of course, he's right, for the most part. Since Levy has built his version of the Bills around character this offseason, now seems like a great time to analyze the Bills' best character players on the defensive side of the ball.
May 08, 2006
No. 1 pick Whitner fits in well
Donte Whitner's head wasn't spinning nor was he overwhelmed by all the information thrown at him.
In other words, it was smooth sailing for the rookie strong safety during his first NFL minicamp.
Shhhhh! Gandy is a good fit
Offensive tackle Mike Gandy is a man of few words. He apparently doesn't like talking about himself, which may explain why he declined a request to be interviewed.
Buffalo's No. 1 corner should succeed in '06
On Friday, Buffalo Bills cornerback Nate Clements finally signed his franchise tag one-year tender, which will earn him $7.2 million next season. Clements was tagged on February 23, but he refused to sign the offer for over two months. The Bills agreed not to tag Clements again after the upcoming season, so that was enough for the 26-year-old to remain with the team into 2006.
May 07, 2006
Bills LB Spikes takes next step in long rehab
Linebacker Takeo Spikes took his place behind the defensive line waiting for the snap of the ball, when suddenly there was the sound of a distinct "Pop!" It wasn't the right Achilles' tendon which the Buffalo Bills star tore in September, an injury that forced him to miss most of last season. It was the burst of a big pink balloon of bubble gum that Spikes blew.
Bills Rookie Camp Recap
It wasn't an overly eventful rookie orientation camp for the Buffalo Bills, but work got done, players improved and the rookies' heads are spinning as they head back to their respective college campuses. Overall though, head coach Dick Jauron liked the effort he got out of his draft picks and rookie free agents.
Jacksonville owner says Wilson right about new CBA
Buffalo Bills owner Ralph C. Wilson Jr. took all the heat in March for speaking out against the NFL's collective bargaining extension.
Now, however, Wilson is getting more vocal support from a few of his NFL partners.
Jacksonville owner Wayne Weaver is the latest to praise Wilson for voicing his disapproval of the CBA extension.
Wild card in Bills' QB derby ready to prove himself
Craig Nall says he didn't watch the NFL draft last weekend. Nall was more worried about his living room than what was going on in the Bills' draft room. Nall and his wife, Amanda, had just moved into a new house in Hamburg. They spent most of the day shopping for furniture.
Thomas feels right at home with new team
Running back Anthony Thomas is with a new team, but he's surrounded by some familiar faces.
The man known as the A-train has reunited with Buffalo Bills coach Dick Jauron, who was the head man in Chicago during three of Thomas' four years there. Former Bears teammates Chris Villarrial, Mike Gandy and Daimon Shelton are on the Bills' roster as well.
New Bills stir up camp competition
Added incentive, a wake-up call or a swift kick in the behind.
Call it what you will, the Buffalo Bills' many acquisitions this offseason have sent a message to the roster that there will be more intense fighting for positions in training camp.
"Competition, competition, competition," says Bills general manager Marv Levy on the rationale for many of his signings.
Saturday Bills Minicamp News and Notes
The Bills had all but four roster players in attendance at Friday's voluntary minicamp workout Absent from the first day were linebacker London Fletcher, running back Willis McGahee, safety Troy Vincent, and receiver Peerless Price. The Bills will have 3 more practice sessions scheduled Saturday and Sunday.
Bills' McCargo can haul to the ball
The Buffalo Bills unwrapped some precious cargo for their neglected defensive line this weekend.
Defensive tackle John McCargo, a three-year starter on one of the best defensive lines in college football at North Carolina State, was one of Buffalo's two first-round picks in the NFL draft.
Bills' Spikes making strides toward return
Takeo Spikes knows his window of opportunity won’t stay open forever.
That’s why the Buffalo Bills linebacker, rehabbing a ruptured Achilles tendon, admits to being frustrated.
May 06, 2006
Clements Decision to Stay Will Pay Dividends
Nate Clements recently signed the Bills’ offer sheet with an understanding that the team would not tag him again next season essentially guaranteeing his unrestricted free agency status next season. So how does this impact the Bills? Clements?
Bills report: Notes, quotes
Aware that he stands to cash in on an even richer contract as an unrestricted free agent in 2007 thanks to the NFL's new labor deal, CB Nate Clements signed a one-year deal worth $7.2 million on Friday as Buffalo's franchise player. Clements, arriving from Orlando, Fla., signed the contract and was on the field for the start of a three-day mini-camp.
Bills report: Strategy and personnel
The Bills are hoping once again to the find a gem or two in the college free agent market. Among their most intriguing post-draft signings are wide receiver Martin Nance and defensive ends Ryan Neill and Jason Hall.
Bills report: Inside slant
Buffalo Bills coach Dick Jauron had only one winning season in five years as coach of the Chicago Bears. But the former NFL cornerback and longtime defensive assistant had a hand in building a Bears defense that ranked among the very best in the NFL last season, a touch that Buffalo fans hope rubs off on the Bills, who had one of the league's worst defensive units
Mayock left Berman with meter running
Mayock probably shocked Bills fans last Saturday before General Manager Marv Levy did by correctly predicting the Bills would take Donte Whitner if they couldn't trade down. Mayock had six of the first eight picks right in his mock draft and would have had all eight if Houston had selected Reggie Bush instead of Mario Williams. Mayock flip-flopped the picks.
Clements gets a no-haggle deal
Buffalo Bills cornerback Nate Clements skipped a vacation to Disney World this weekend to participate in the team's voluntary minicamp. But he feels just as happy as if he had gone on vacation.
Bills add Miami's Nance
Ben Roethlisberger's favorite receiver at Miami (Ohio) was among the rookie free agents signed by the Bills.
Martin Nance, a 6-foot-4, 213-pounder who put up huge numbers during Roethlisberger's senior season, was among eight rookies signed. Nance caught 90 passes for 1,498 yards with 11 touchdowns in 2003. Roethlisberger then went on to the Pittsburgh Steelers. Nance suffered a knee injury in 2004 that limited him to just five starts. But in 2005 he rebounded with 81 catches for 1,107 yards.
Bills rookie Whitner begins learning process
Donte Whitner jogged onto the field for his first practice with the Buffalo Bills on Friday, decked out in No. 36.
Taken in the first round of last weekend's NFL draft to replace departed veteran Lawyer Milloy at strong safety, it was fitting — or was it eerie? — that Whitner would also be assigned Milloy's number.
Clements signs with Bills for 1 year, $7.2 million
After two months of stagnating contract talks, Clements signed a one-year deal Friday under terms of the NFL's franchise tag, meaning he will play for the Bills in 2006 for $7.2 million, the average of the top five players at his position.
May 05, 2006
Clements Signs Franchise Tender
Bills cornerback Nate Clements signed his one-year franchise tender Friday, ensuring that he'll be playing for Buffalo in 2006. The club placed the franchise tag on Clements back on February 22 as part of an effort to retain the former Pro Bowl cornerback for the long term.
Bills' top three ready for some football
In college, they were the best of the best on their teams because of their physical ability. In the NFL, they are the young and the clueless because, in spite of their talent, they don't know what they don't know.
Fewell delighted with new talent on defense
When it comes to acceptable levels of celebration, skipping and whistling through the bubbling halls of testosterone at One Bills Drive is definitely out of bounds. But wearing an ear-to-ear smile is just fine. That's what Buffalo defensive coordinator Perry Fewell has done since last weekend when the Bills spent six of their nine draft picks — including the first five — on players he gets to coach.
Bills stand behind first-round choices
No team was ripped more for its draft than Buffalo. With the shaky combination of youngster J.P. Losman and journeyman Kelly Holcomb at quarterback, the Bills passed on 2004 Heisman Trophy winner Matt Leinart, who went to Arizona two picks later.
May 04, 2006
Bumbling Bills Take Early Lead in Quinn-Stakes
My fellow Bills fans, it is with great sadness that I report to you that one year from now, the new commissioner of the National Football League will walk onstage in New York and make the following announcement: "With the first selection in the 2007 NFL draft, the Buffalo Bills select Brady Quinn, quarterback, Notre Dame."
At least one NFL owner supports Wilson
Though he voted in favor of the pact Wayne Weaver, owner of the Jacksonville Jaguars -- like Buffalo, a small-market franchise -- told the Florida Times-Union, Wilson's concerns are real.
Bills' rookie DT's could make big impact
At last weekend’s NFL Draft, the Buffalo Bills made a point to upgrade one of the weakest areas on their team, the defensive tackle position. They traded up into the first round in order to select former NC State standout John McCargo with the 26th overall pick, then they grabbed former LSU stalwart Kyle Williams in the fifth round.
Buffalo need not defend drafting defensive players
It was as inevitable as sunrise and sunset. Once the NFL draft was over and the Buffalo Bills passed on quarterback Matt Leinart and took cornerback Donte Whitner with the No. 8 pick, I knew it would happen.
May 03, 2006
Q and A with Dwight Adams
Former Bills vice president of player personnel answers draft questions-
Dwight Adams: The 40 time is one of the most over-rated things there is. The player is inside most of the time, wearing shorts, no one is chasing him, he's not chasing anyone, there's no score in the game and it's humanly impossible to run a 4.40 in the 40. Check with the good track coaches/and sprinters across America, like Brooks Johnson the Olympic sprint coach. To us, quickness, not speed is the most important at any position. I'm interested in the 10 or 20 yd dash more than the 40. Football is a game of explosion and quickness. Players run in quick movement areas that can separate/flip hips and make up (closing speed), see the hole, and hit it now (eyes/reactions).
NFL News And Notes
For those of you not paying attention, the NFL recently released their 2006 schedule with an eye towards extending their Television Dominance. Starting with a Thanksgiving triple-header, the NFL will begin broadcasting games on Thursday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday over the final 6 weeks of the season, with the Sunday night game incorporating their new Flexible Schedule.
State of the Bills
The NFL draft has come and gone, the free-agency cupboards have been stripped bare for the most part and particularly in the Bills’ biggest need areas, and the focus now turns to mini-camps, signing draftees, and preparing for training camp. Now that the dust has settled on the Bills first offseason as led by the Ivy-League-Dynamic-Duo, exactly where do the Bills stand?
Getting the New Bills to Town
The process for the draft picks begins as soon as they're picked by the Bills. After head coach Dick Jauron or general manager Marv Levy congratulates them on being drafted, the phone is handed to Lancaster who immediately obtains all of their personal information.
At least one NFL owner supports Wilson
Ralph Wilson has the support of at least one more fellow National Football League owner when it comes to opposing the recently approved labor deal with players.
Bills, CSC, Sportservice Seek Employees for 2006
The Buffalo Bills, Contemporary Service Corporation (CSC) and Sportservice have teamed up to host the 2006 Ralph Wilson Stadium Job Fair. The event will be held in the Paul Maguire Club at Ralph Wilson Stadium in Orchard Park, NY on Thursday, May 11, 2006 from 11:00 am – 7:00 pm.
Levy may be older, but he's bolder
If you paid attention to the first round of the NFL draft, you probably are aware many critics ripped the decisions made by Levy and the other decision-makers in Buffalo. And because Bills owner Ralph Wilson is 87 and Levy -- the former Bills coach and current GM -- is 80, the cheap shots were easy.
And they roll off Levy's back like so much BenGay.
Bills rightly seem content with their offensive line
This past weekend’s NFL Draft came and went, and the Buffalo Bills didn’t do much to upgrade an offensive line that has been among the worst in the league for years. Why? Because GM Marv Levy seems content with his current cast of players, and he might be right in his beliefs.
May 02, 2006
Bills Cleverly Conceal Draft Day Preferences
When it came to the Bills this year they played it so close to the vest that no one knew what player Buffalo had targeted in round one.
Bills sign Miami (Ohio) receiver
The Buffalo Bills have signed Martin Nance, who was quarterback Ben Roethlisberger's favorite target at the University of Miami, Ohio.
Bills worked NFL draft the right way, addressing their broken-down defense
The Buffalo Bills obtained four of the Top 65 rated college football players in the country and five potential defensive starters overall.
On paper, they upgraded one of the worst defensive units in the NFL last season, addressing the line and safety positions after years of neglect. They nabbed two highly rated defensive backs in the third and fourth rounds, took three big offensive linemen, hoping to find a sleeper, and overall got quicker, deeper and smarter.
Virginia: Area Star Drafted by Bills
He is considered the pride of Drake's Branch, Virginia. Over the weekend, John McCargo was selected in the first round of the NFL Draft by the Buffalo Bills. Monday, we caught up with the former NC State defensive tackle at his home in Charlotte County.
Was Bills Pass on Leinart Bright or Dim?
Ok, I’ll admit that for about 15-20 seconds after the Raiders took Michael Huff and the Bills were on the board, I entertained the thought the Bills should swing for the fences and grab USC quarterback Matt Leinart.
Buffalo's secondary could shine for years
In this past weekend’s NFL Draft, the Buffalo Bills’ brain trust, led by GM Marv Levy, assistant GM Tom Modrak and head coach Dick Jauron made upgrading the defensive secondary their most important issue. They ended up drafting a grand total of three defensive backs, all of which were taken in the first four rounds.
Ko Simpson: Ready to Step Up After Falling to Round Four
Simpson is going to be playing with a chip on his shoulder after a free fall in the draft. Simpson was expected to be a first-day pick, and some even had him going in the first round. Instead, Simpson waited till the second day in the fourth round to get picked by the Bills.
May 01, 2006
Buffalo Bills 2006 NFL Draft Review
Analysis: The selection of Whitner at No. 8 was a major head-scratcher, since the secondary was not seen as a major need area for the Bills and Whitner was not rated above No. 20 by any major rating service.
DiGiorgio Signs Free Agent Deal with Buffalo Bills
Former Cardinal standout and All-American John DiGiorgio (Shelby Twp., Mich./Eisenhower) will continue his football career with the Buffalo Bills of the National Football League after signing a free agent contract with the team on Monday. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Armchair Scout – Bills Draft Evaluation
Many Bills fans who witnessed the early stages of the NFL Draft this past weekend were disappointed by the direction the club initially took. To say that Ohio State safety Donte Whitner was an unexpected selection with the eighth pick in the draft would be an understatement. But as the draft wore on and progressed into Day Two the body of work put together by the Bills looked more and more appealing.
Team-by-team grades from 2006 NFL draft
Buffalo Bills: GRADE: C While it was a reach to take safety Donte Whitner with the eighth pick, he is a great prospect and I like him. Giving up a third-round pick to get DT John McCargo in the first round was a reach. He's a solid player but not an elite one. Cornerback Ashton Youboty lasted longer than I thought, but is a very good pick. Safety Ko Simpson and defensive tackle Kyle Williams are solid. Overall, the Bills reached on both of their first-round picks, but drafted players who will help the team.
WGR Audio Vault- Audio from the Bill's Draft
Long wait puts chip on shoulder of fourth-round pick
When you're rated as one of the top players at your position, it's not easy seeing so many teams pass you by. Ko Simpson experienced that disappointment this weekend.
Draft accelerates Bills' defensive makeover
After targeting mostly offensive players the last two years, the Bills focused heavily on the defensive side of the ball over the weekend. They used their first five picks on defensive players, a first in franchise history, and six of their nine overall selections were defenders.
GETTING DEFENSIVE
The defensive roll started unexpectedly on Friday when Houston turned its back on running back Reggie Bush and decided to take the top pass rusher in the draft, North Carolina State defensive end Mario Williams. Quarterbacks had gone No. 1 overall the previous five years.
Bills’ Draft: Same Tree, Different Monkeys
Make no mistake, Levy’s on-the-job-training status shone through in spades this weekend. Not to mention that they behaved like a 16-year old going to a used car lot to buy his first car.
Ko Simpson drops to 4th round
Ko Simpson’s wait to be drafted was longer than expected, but it did not last long Sunday. Simpson, who was projected to be a mid- to late-second round pick in the NFL Draft, was chosen by the Buffalo Bills on Sunday with the eighth pick in the fourth round. He was the 105th selection overall.
Buffalo's defensive soft spots addressed
On Day 1 of the NFL draft, the Buffalo Bills spent their first two picks on a safety and a defensive tackle. On Day 2, the Bills spent their first two picks on a safety and a defensive tackle. On day three, well, there isn't a day three. But if there were, it's quite likely the Bills would take a safety and a defensive tackle to shore up the doughy middle of their 29th-ranked defense.
Bills could pay for passing on QB Leinart
Safety First is a productive motto for most workplaces, but it shouldn't always apply to an NFL draft room when your team needs a quarterback and a Heisman Trophy-winning one is available. If Matt Leinart becomes a Pro Bowl quarterback, and J.P. Losman fails to develop, the Buffalo Bills are going to look very foolish for passing up Leinart in Saturday's draft.
Bills report: Strategy and personnel
The signing of free-agent guard Tutan Reyes on the eve of the NFL draft lessened Buffalo's need to spend a high-round pick on its offensive line.
Bills report: Notes, quotes
T Brad Butler, Buffalo's fifth-round pick out of Virginia, gained some unwanted questions about his temperament when he was suspended for chop-blocking Boston College star DE Mathias Kiwanuka last fall. The Bills hardly viewed the incident as a negative on Butler.
Bills report: Inside slant
The Bills have started a clear youth movement. Not only were all of their free-agent signings players 30 years old or younger, their first four draft picks were underclassmen.
Defense dominates Bills draft
After five defensive picks in this weekend's N-F-L draft, the Buffalo Bills went for offense Sunday. The team took University of Virginia offensive tackle Brad Butler in the fifth round.
