May 31, 2007
Day Seven OTA Notes
Buffalo's newest cornerback Jason Webster got almost all the first team reps at the right cornerback spot. Part of it was due to a reduced workload for Kiwaukee Thomas Thursday, but he performed well for the most part...Webster showed an ability to maintain tight coverage throughout the progression of a receiver's route on a consistent basis in extended action. On the few balls that were completed against him he wasn't more than a half step off the receiver. But for Webster that's not good enough.
Parrish Sits Out Practice
WR Roscoe Parrish sat out Thursday's practice with a sore muscle. Tight End Robert Royal was injured on a play. Royal walked off the field on his own power holding his left side. No word yet on what his injury may be. Acquired defensive tackle Darwin Walker is still not attending OTAs, while the Bills' other new Walker, offenstive tackle Langston, joined the Howard Simon Show this morning.
Undrafteds In Depth: Coleman’s Move To Corner
Duane Coleman feels George Wilson's pain. Coleman knows exactly what Wilson is going through in making the switch from wide receiver to safety. That is because Coleman switched from running back to cornerback during his time at Clemson.
Bills To Host Blood Drive At Stadium
The Buffalo Bills and American Red Cross, New York-Penn Region will team up to host a Blood Drive on Friday, June 1st, 2007. Presenting donors are invited to the Paul Maguire Club at Ralph Wilson Stadium from 11:00am – 7:00pm where the first 500 fans will receive a special edition mini football and be entered for the chance to win 2007 game tickets. Free parking and refreshments will be available.
Off to the Supermarket! A Bills Picnic BBQ
Having been tasked to plan and provide for a BBQ this weekend for 50 people, fellow colleagues and their family members, I thought I would head off to the store to go grab everything that I need. It’s a company thing you know and we have to entertain for the 50 people on a budget for the event of $175. Kind of like Rachel Ray’s $40 a Day thing.
Bills should pass the cap for Walker
The Bills are talking about selling out all their home games. Signing Walker would show the fans they’re serious about competing. If they lose Walker, it’ll mean they traded Spikes and Holcomb for sixth- and seventh-round picks. That would be an utter embarrassment to Levy and the franchise.
Everett looking for progress
“We’ll see, but I’ve certainly liked what I’ve seen from Kevin Everett the past week,” said Bills offensive coordinator Steve Fairchild. “I really do. I think his whole demeanor, his attention to detail, it looks good. He just looks very comfortable, and when he’s comfortable he’s a very talented guy.” Everett was a third-round pick of the Bills in 2005 out of the University of Miami. He missed his entire first season because he tore up his knee on the first day of his rookie minicamp.
Bills seeing a jump in ticket sales
As the Buffalo Bills sweat their way through organized team activities this spring, they do so in front of a smattering of reporters, workers replacing the JumboTron scoreboard, and more than 73,000 empty seats inside Ralph Wilson Stadium. Early indications are that during the upcoming 2007 season, empty seats will be few and far between.
Finally, Bills fans have a chance to watch The Comeback
Bills fans will be happy to know that tonight, May 31, at 8 p.m., they're broadcasting The Comeback, as those Oilers came to Buffalo and played one heck of a good 2½ quarters of football. Not only will this be the first time the Jan. 3, 1993 playoff game has been shown in its entirety since it happened live, it will actually be the first time many Bills fans will get to view the remarkable events. Of course, it was blacked out, so unless you were outside Western New York at the time or are among the 1 million people who claimed to have been there, you didn't see it.
May 30, 2007
Bills Thomas to sign at card show Sunday
Buffalo Bills legend Thurman Thomas will headline a sports card and collectible show benefitting Jim Kelly’s foundation for kids, Sunday, from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at Logan’s Party House on Scottsville Road. Thomas, who will be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame on Aug. 4, will be joined by several former Bills teammates, including center Kent Hull and defensive end Phil Hansen.
Tasker will be honored at Bills opener
Former special teams great Steve Tasker will be inducted onto the Buffalo Bills' Wall of Fame at halftime of the Sept. 9 season opener against the Denver Broncos. Tasker picked that game because it works with his CBS television analyst schedule.
Wall of Famer Tasker To Be Honored Sept. 9
Tasker made the opening home date his first choice for a reason, it's also Bills alumni weekend. "You never know how often the former teammates can get back up here in a season, so to do it on a weekend when most of them will be there is really special to me," said Tasker. I'm glad they're doing that. I'm excited about it."
Day Six OTA Notes
In the final 11-on-11 series the run and pass were again mixed effectively. Angelo Crowell broke up a pass over the middle, but it should have been an interception and he knew it by the sound of his voice on the field. The defense really had some solid coverage downs forcing Losman to roll away from pressure a handful to times. That earned praise from defensive coordinator Perry Fewell. "Great job! Great job men," shouted Fewell in approval.
Fans Chime In
Mark,
I thought writers were suppose to be neutral in their reporting? Why do you hate the bills management so much??????????????
Bills pass on height
The Buffalo Bills did not put a priority on acquiring a receiver with height during the offseason, even though they have a small receiving corps. The reason? The Bills’ coaches aren’t all that big on big receivers. “I’ve never been a guy who cares that much about the size,” Bills offensive coordinator Steve Fairchild said. “I’d rather have a guy who can separate — and those guys come in all shapes and sizes. If a guy can separate and run, he’ll find a way to get open.”
If Walker doesn’t report, team gets a draft pick
Buffalo Bills General Manager Marv Levy expressed hope Tuesday that the contract impasse with defensive tackle Darwin Walker eventually will be resolved. “We continue our discussions with Darwin’s agent and remain optimistic that he will report,” Levy said. Walker, acquired in the trade of Takeo Spikes to Philadelphia, wants to renegotiate his contract, which runs through 2008.
Fit the Bills? J.P. evolving into star QB
Losman finally has some stability. He's in the same offense for the second consecutive year -- and Steve Fairchild is back to lead it as coordinator. For any quarterback, changing systems is tough. For a young passer, the degree of difficulty is multiplied by 10. As Losman walked from the practice field last week following one of the Bills' organized team activity days, he sounded like a comfortable veteran who seemed eager to show what he can do now that he isn't delving into a new playbook again.
Bills' Losman compares well to top first-year QBs
J.P. Losman has been one of the victims of Ben's success, as some wondered why he wasn't able to instantly turn Buffalo into Steelers North. The criticism subsided in 2006, though, as Losman put to work valuable lessons he learned while struggling through 2005 on the way to a solid season. But how does he compare to the recent greats after one full season of starting? Reader Michael Sluder suggested holding up the initial seasons of the top quarterbacks of recent times against Losman's first campaign as "The Guy."
May 29, 2007
Schobel Arrives
The Bills added one and lost one to voluntary OTA's. DE Aaron Schobel began practice this afternoon after a four-day weekend. T Jason Peters was not at practice in Orchard Park. DT Darwin Walker continues to stay away waiting for a new contract. DT John McCargo worked with the trainers. WR Johnny Quinn came back from injury while K/P Chris Jackson is now in camp.
Day Five OTA Notes
Participating in his first practice since the offseason departures of Nate Clements, London Fletcher and Takeo Spikes, Aaron Schobel admitted there was a different feel on defense. "It's different when you lose three guys on defense, two of which you've been playing with for five years," said Schobel. "It's different and there are new faces, but I feel like the coaches want their guys and believe in what they're doing so that's what you've got to do sometimes."
Bills Beef Up
On the first day of free agency, the Buffalo Bills addressed their biggest need with three big men. But is bigger better? Buffalo signed Langston Walker, Derrick Dockery and Jason Whittle within the first 24 hours of free agency, addressing the problem of 47 quarterback sacks last season.
What a Difference a Year Makes; Secondary Now Bills’ Defensive Strength
Dick Jauron’s influence is certainly being felt with the Bills. Jauron’s dismal tenure with the Bears was predicated on a team built from the outside in vice from the inside out via solid lines. As formerly mentioned in the Coaches Do What They Know Best series in June of ’06, coaches often tend towards familiarity which is not always in parallel with the proven patterns and methods for success. That pattern is already being established here in Buffalo with Jauron and Fewell, both former defensive backs turned DB coaches, leading that charge.
DT situation still a mess in Buffalo
Without Walker on the left and McCargo on the right, Buffalo is stuck with Larry Tripplett and Kyle Williams as its starting defensive tackles. Tripplett signed a big free-agent contract to leave Indianapolis for the Bills over a year ago, but he was unimpressive in his first season in Buffalo. Tripplett, 28, made 33 tackles and racked up 2½ sacks while proving himself as little more than a weakness against the run.
May 28, 2007
Undrafteds in Depth: Brown Looking For Permanent Gig
One asset that Brown has is his size. At 6'3", 210 pounds Brown is the biggest receiver on the Bills roster. Along with his size comes an excellent work ethic and great coachability, something that has already been discovered by the coaching staff. "If he screws up you tell him once and it's fixed, you don't have to worry about him screwing up again," said receivers coach Tyke Tolbert.
Bills' George Wilson does what it takes to play
The change is personally worth a shot for a guy even the Wilson family would agree hasn't made an impact at pro wideout. He hasn't caught a pass in his three NFL seasons, his first with Detroit and last two as a Bill, and he's actually only been active for three games during that time. Wilson's collegiate career, which saw him catch 144 passes (second most in Arkansas history), obviously didn't guarantee success at the next level, so the Bills are hoping that his prowess is broad enough to allow him to defend passes rather than catch them.
May 27, 2007
Former PSU QB Posluszny fits the Bills
Posluszny quickly realized his good fortune. For starters, his parents have an easy four-hour drive to every home game. "When we drove into the city and saw all the old steel mills, that was a familiar sight to me," Posluszny said. "I felt right at home with all that. You get the same feel here as you do in Western Pennsylvania. Same type of people - hard-working, blue-collar people. I'm just real comfortable here. "It's the perfect situation."
May 26, 2007
Sports on the Air: Channel 7 wins bid for Bills
WKBW-TV, which promotes itself as the Buffalo Bills station, finally has a regular season Bills game on its schedule. The ABC affiliate won the broadcast rights to one of the most attractive games on the Bills’ schedule, the Oct. 8 Monday Night game with the Dallas Cowboys carried by ESPN.
BILLS: Walker could go back to Philly
If recently acquired defensive tackle Darwin Walker doesn’t report to Bills training camp by Aug. 5, he will be traded back to Philadelphia for a 2008 sixth-round pick, NFL Network’s Adam Schefter reported Friday.
Bills report: Strategy and personnel
WR George Wilson, who joined the Bills practice squad as a rookie midway through the 2004 season but who hasn't been able to crack the top four on the depth chart, has temporarily been switched to strong safety....Jauron said he considered moving Wilson, who has been a willing hitter on special teams, to safety when he coached him in Detroit in 2004.
Bills report: Notes, quotes
RB Marshawn Lynch and LB Paul Posluszny ran with the second teams during Buffalo's first OTA, but don't be fooled. The coaches are playing politics with veterans while easing the two prized recruits into the pro game. If Anthony Thomas and John DiGiorgio are starters at RB and MLB, respectively, in Week One of the NFL season, not only would Buffalo's scouting be called into question, ticket buyers might revolt. Lynch and Posluszny looked like blue-chippers around the veterans but there's a lot to learn and sometimes the best way is by watching at first.
Bills report: Inside slant
Losing cornerback Nate Clements, their best playmaker on defense, to the San Francisco Giants as an unrestricted free agent has put the Bills into full scramble mode. Coach Dick Jauron said the team would turn over every stone to hopefully find his replacement, and he wasn't kidding. The addition of seven-year veteran Jason Webster, a free agent bust with the Atlanta Falcons, is the latest move, albeit one with long odds.
May 25, 2007
Bills Could Lose Walker Back To Eagles
NFL Network's Adam Schefter is reporting that Buffalo Bills defensive tackle Darwin Walker can become property of the Philadelphia Eagles if he does not report to Bills training camp by August 5.
Walker's trade to Bills still not a done deal
While formulating the trade, the Bills and Eagles agreed that if Walker did not report to Buffalo for training camp by Aug. 5, then he would revert to Eagles property and the Bills would get the Eagles sixth-round pick in 2008. It is a possibility that seems more real each day. So the sequel to the Walker trade could be just over two months away and it will depend, as so much in the league does, on a new contract.
A-Train Ready To Share The Load
"I definitely anticipated that," said Thomas of Buffalo's running back draft picks. "It's not my first year in the league so I figured something like that would go on. I'm just trying to make the best of my situation and move forward." Thomas has also recognized the success Chicago, Indianapolis, New England and New Orleans all had with two backs sharing the load and believes it could work in Buffalo as well.
Special to the core
Josh Scobey has made a nice living in the NFL for five years by being a hard-core specialteams standout. So when Scobey became a free agent this spring, he had a good idea of where to look for a job. “I’m no dummy, by any means,” Scobey said after the Buffalo Bills practiced Thursday. “I know how I’ve lasted in this league going on six years. Buffalo offered an opportunity to join a great special-teams unit. I saw that off the bat. I knew how important special teams are around here, and that’s something I wanted to be a part of.”
Is adversity around corner for the Bills?
The Buffalo Bills have begun the task of getting on without Nate Clements, which is a relief for the bottom line, although somewhat foreboding on the field. Cornerbacks of lofty repute are cherished commodities in the NFL, so much so that the San Francisco 49ers made Clements the league’s highest- paid defensive player at the conclusion of last season.
Whether he’s worth $80 million is immaterial as far as the Bills are concerned since it was a given he’d command a contract far in excess of their budget. What matters is that they have to find a way to minimize the effects of his departure.
Bills’ ticket sales near goal of sold-out season
The Buffalo Sabres aren’t going to be the only hot ticket in town this year.
When the Buffalo Bills put individual game tickets on sale to the general public July 14, no tickets are expected to be available for either the Sept. 9 opener against the Denver Broncos or the Oct. 8 Monday Night Football showdown with the Dallas Cowboys.
CB Webster eager for fresh start with Bills
No surprise that cornerback Jason Webster wasn't interested in looking back Tuesday after his first practice since signing with the Buffalo Bills. "I'm not focusing on the past," said the seven-year NFL veteran, who is coming off three injury-filled seasons that led to Atlanta releasing him two weeks ago. "I'm looking forward to being part of the Buffalo Bills organization."
McCargo should be back for camp
Bills head coach Dick Jauron isn't worried about defensive tackle John McCargo's recovery from a broken left foot and says the former first-round pick should be ready when training camp opens at the end of July.
Initial expectations shouldn't be huge for Bills' Lynch
The Bills selected former University of California running back Marshawn Lynch with the 12th overall pick in last month's draft, and belief has been high ever since that he'll immediately be a high-caliber ball carrier in the NFL. Both fans of the Bills and football analysts alike have pegged the 21-year-old as an Offensive Rookie of the Year front-runner, but those expectations may actually be somewhat unfair.
May 24, 2007
Day 4 OTA Notes
Bills quarterback J.P. Losman had his best day of the week Thursday as his accuracy and touch were sharp throughout the practice. Losman had good touch passes on a pair of out patterns to Lee Evans and Josh Reed in which he dropped the ball over or in between defenders.
What Kind of an Impact Will the Bills’ Rookies Make
We can immediately start this discussion by insisting that most of the Bills’ class of draftees won’t make any significant impact whatsoever this season except for perhaps on special teams where quite frankly the Bills’ have had very good to excellent if not superlative performances in recent seasons. This translates to the fact that they likely will make little to no difference there as there is little room to move upward in terms of assuming starting roles. So whatever upside there is in that way is limited to role-play, backup play, or special teams play.
Offense moving fast forward
The Bills were installing a new, unfamiliar offense during last May’s organized team activity workouts. This year they know the offense, and they are building on it. “We’re light years ahead of where we were last year at this time,” said quarterback J.P. Losman. “The confidence is there. We obviously feel more comfortable.”
Posluszny's play can't be summed up by stats
Posluszny's stats with the Nittany Lions frankly don't do him justice, and he's one of those guys who is best served by video: Watch stock clips of him on the news or search his name on Internet video sites, and you'll see a player equipped with an innate magnet for the ball, quicker than an angry ninja and more powerful than Ginger Altoids. In every clip, he searches out the play, diagnoses it in a sliver of a second, and pursues and then brings down his opponent abruptly. Posluszny just has that instinctive appetite for football success that can't be measured at the combine.
May 23, 2007
Day Three OTA Notes
Losman appeared to have more freedom audibilizing plays at the line in this no huddle series and on the second play changed the call twice before the snap. Even though he couldn't see the play clock (it was behind him in the opposite end zone) he got the snap off with one second to spare and ran a run play to Anthony Thomas. "I'm getting more audibles in there in the run game and the pass game," said Losman.
Bills' Coy Wire officially switched to linebacker
"I’m definitely a linebacker within this scheme, and I feel real comfortable there," Wire said. "I know my skills are more catered to this type of defense as a linebacker. It really plays to my abilities - quickness and being able to play with power, so I feel very comfortable being able to do the type of movements you have to make as a Cover Two linebacker."
Undrafteds In Depth: Corto’s NFL Transition
Now given an NFL opportunity with the Bills, Corto has the task of learning a new position out of college. At Sacred Heart Corto was a productive linebacker, but at 6'0" and 208 pounds he is undersized for the position at the pro level. However, he's hoping to find a niche at safety, a position that he hasn't seen playing time at since his freshman year of college. "We really like his size," said defensive backs coach George Catavolos. "He has excellent determination and an excellent mental and physical approach to the game."
Voluntary practices draw nearly full house
The Buffalo Bills have almost 100 percent participation at their first week of organized team activity practices this week. The practices are voluntary. There were 80 of 84 players on the current roster working out Tuesday at Ralph Wilson Stadium. The only veterans absent were defensive linemen Aaron Schobel and Darwin Walker.
McCargo still on sidelines
Buffalo Bills second-year defensive tackle John McCargo had offseason surgery on his foot and is watching from the sidelines this week as the team begins three weeks of voluntary practices at Ralph Wilson Stadium. McCargo’s injury is a worry, even though the Bills still are nine weeks from the start of training camp. The reason is it adds more uncertainty to what is one of the big question- mark positions on the team — defensive tackle.
Bills' Corto aims to be hometown contributor
Emerging and impressing during the Bills' rookie minicamp, the team offered Corto a contract upon the event's conclusion. Corto isn't one of these guys just from a municipality in the same general vicinity or area code as his pro team: He actually inhabits the same town. Orchard Park, N.Y., native Corto is trying to make Orchard Park's NFL team; the former Orchard Park High student would be playing his home games in virtually the same spot.
May 22, 2007
Bills Add Wide Receiver
The Bills have signed wide receiiver Donovan Morgan today. Morgan spent part of last year with the Kansas City Chiefs on their practice squad.
CB Webster eager for fresh start with Bills
No surprise that cornerback Jason Webster wasn't interested in looking back Tuesday after his first practice since signing with the Buffalo Bills. "I'm not focusing on the past," said the seven-year NFL veteran, who is coming off three injury-filled seasons that led to Atlanta releasing him two weeks ago. "I'm looking forward to being part of the Buffalo Bills organization."
Bills Add Wide Receiver Morgan
The Buffalo Bills added a receiver to their roster Tuesday signing Donovan Morgan. The Louisiana-Lafayette product participated in an open tryout Monday that was held by Bills pro personnel director John Guy and scouting assistants Rob Hanrahan and Kevin Meganck, and the club thought enough of him to give him an extended look.
Day Two OTA Notes
Losman's best pass of the day came on a 20-yard out to Everett. Buffalo's quarterback put some nice touch on the ball dropping it over the head of two defenders into the waiting hands of Everett before he reached the sideline on his route. Earlier in the series Lee Evans made a difficult catch in traffic despite tight coverage by Kiwaukee Thomas.
Buffalo Bills Accepting Registration For H.S.P.D.
The Buffalo Bills are searching for Western New York’s motivated high school football players interested in developing their skills on and off the field to participate in the Bills High School Player Development (HSPD) program. The Bills HSPD program is free and will take place at the Bills Training Facility from July 9 – July 13, Monday through Friday, from 6:00-8:00 PM.
Wilson Trying Hand At Safety
"It's been going pretty good," Wilson said. "The first few days there were a lot of moving parts, but I've gotten some great help in the defensive backs room from Jim Leonhard and coach Catavolos. They're giving me pointers while watching film and answering all my questions, so they've tried to help make it a smooth transition."
Veteran corner Webster signs with Bills
The Buffalo Bills tried to give themselves a little more insurance at the cornerback position Monday. The Bills agreed to contract terms with seven-year veteran Jason Webster and threw him into the mix of players who will try to take over the spot vacated by Nate Clements.
Webster a low-risk pickup for Buffalo
For better or worse, then, Webster and his 11 career interceptions rank No. 1 on the Bills' defensive back depth chart. In light of that, Buffalo had nothing to lose by signing the seven-year man. He's a veteran who has been around the so-called block in the NFL, and perhaps he can serve as a mentor to the Bills' young DBs.
May 21, 2007
Released by Falcons, Webster signs deal with Bills
Released by the Atlanta Falcons earlier this month after a disappointing and injury-plagued three-year stint, free agent cornerback Jason Webster on Monday signed with the Buffalo Bills, hoping to resurrect his career and perhaps add experience to a very young secondary. Webster, 29, is a seven-year veteran.
Chiefs Could Play Bills in Germany in 2008
As the NFL continues its efforts to attract fans from around the world,
Germany is the league's best foothold in Europe. The U.S. military
influence in Germany has made some fans there familiar with American
football, and Germany is the only country that has really embraced NFL
Europa.
Cornerback Jason Webster agrees to one-year deal with Buffalo Bills
Cornerback Jason Webster agreed to a one-year deal with the Buffalo
Bills on Monday, a move to bolster the team's inexperienced defensive
backfield. A seven-year veteran, Webster spent the past three seasons playing with
Atlanta before being released by the Falcons on May 10. He'll
immediately compete for a starting job in Buffalo after the team lost
Nate Clements to free agency this off-season.
Bills Could Trade DT Tim Anderson
According to Len Pasquarelli of ESPN (
Insider),
the Buffalo Bills have put defensive tackle Tim Anderson on the trade
market. Considering he's unlikely to make the team out of training
camp, his trade value is extremely low and the Bills are unlikely to
get any offers. However, they are holding out hope for a sixth or
seventh-round draft choice.
Fandom at its Finest
The camps/OTAs are fine for the rookies. They need them. It’s extremely questionable however as to what they do for veterans other than "mingling" the vets in a gesture of welcome to the rookies and newbies in the interests of establishing team chemistry and camaraderie. Many veterans are known for hating these things and many more are even known for only playing "partially" in preseason.
Day One OTA Notes
J.P. Losman also threaded the needle on an underneath throw the Reed that found its way through three defenders. On defense John DiGiorgio had a strong first day with a pair of interceptions off Losman in 7-on-7 work. The first pick came over the middle on a pass intended for Everett. DiGiorgio leaped and reached high over his head to snare the pass and take it the other way. His second INT came a couple of series later when Donte Whitner tipped a pass intended for Shaud Williams that DiGiorgio came down with and also tried to return.
Bills sign cornerback
The Buffalo Bills added veteran cornerback Jason Webster to their roster today. Webster, a seven-year veteran who played the last three seasons with the Atlanta Falcons, agreed to terms on a one-year contract with the Bills.
Bills Sign CB Webster
Jason Webster will enter his eighth NFL season in 2007. He has spent the previous three seasons with the Atlanta Falcons and made seven starts in eight games last season. Webster finished 2006 with 47 tackles, two interceptions, five passes defensed and a forced fumble and has started 73 of 86 games in his seven-year career. He has 11 career interceptions and 55 passes defensed.
Sam Rayburn could become familiar name to Bills' fans
Even though he was redundant in Philadelphia, Rayburn fits the concept the Bills have for smaller, mobile guys at his position. At 6-foot-3 and 303 pounds, he's more in the mold of the nose tackle's comparatively little buddy rather than being the sort of impossibly massive body that affects the tides; of course, the Bills don't really have, nor are they looking for, an utter giant in the middle, so it's possible he could line up there, too, even if he's not quite the size of a traditional NT.
May 20, 2007
Bills Team Report
RB Marshawn Lynch showed during last week's rookie minicamp that he could have a major impact as a receiver. He runs smooth routes and catches the ball consistently. He'll be difficult for linebackers to cover and he has the potential to be dangerous after the catch because of his exceptional quickness and acceleration.
Levy coaches Canisius graduates on life’s game
The Buffalo Bills general manager and former head coach delivered a speech to an estimated 600 graduates in a packed Alumni Arena. “Success is defined in the dictionary as a favorable outcome,” Levy said. “My apologies to Mr. Webster, but success is not merely a destination, it is a journey, one that should be thoroughly enjoyed.”
May 19, 2007
Team hopes it found diamonds in the rough
Forget catching lightning in a bottle once, the Buffalo Bills hope they can do it twice. Despite seemingly more-pressing needs on defense, the Bills went with two surprise picks in last month’s NFL Draft, nabbing Stanford quarterback Trent Edwards in the third round and taking Fresno State running back Dwayne Wright in the fourth. In both instances, the Bills had grades on the players that simply made them too tempting to pass up.
May 18, 2007
Giants Name Marc Ross Director of College Scouting
Giants general manager Jerry Reese today named Marc Ross as the team’s Director of College Scouting. Ross has been in the NFL for 11 years, including the last three as a national college scout for the Buffalo Bills.
A Rare Opportunity For Bassey
"It's all competition," said Eric Bassey. "All you can do is work as hard as you can and control the things that you can control and whatever happens after that you just have to roll with it." "It's open," said head coach Dick Jauron of the cornerback position. "We're going to let them compete for it." And that's just what Bassey intends to do. After putting on five more pounds of lean muscle this offseason the Oklahoma product is now tipping the scales at 205.
Can Wire challenge Ellison in Buffalo?
Late last season, Bills head coach Dick Jauron elected to move Wire back to linebacker, and that's where he's been since. Coy Wire, at 6-0, 220 pounds, still seems too small to be a starting LB, but all bets could be off if the 28-year-old adds some more weight to his frame and continues to maintain sub-4.6 speed. The Camp Hill, Pa., native certainly has the character, on-field smarts and tackling ability that Jauron and defensive coordinator Perry Fewell look for, but that doesn't mean he has the skill to be an effective linebacker at the NFL level.
May 17, 2007
Wendling A Smart Fit For Bills
"He's a freak athletically," said Bills scout Terry Wooden. "He's a big guy that can run. He has pretty good cover skills. He's a real smart kid. I see him being a tough kid that doesn't make that many mistakes."
Bills sign local player
Orchard Park native Don Corto earned a contract with the hometown Buffalo Bills the hard way — as an undrafted free agent. Corto, who attended the Bills’ minicamp for draft picks and rookie freeagents last weekend, was one of two free agents signed after the camp.
Hall should follow Wall for Tasker
After earning his spot in Bills history, Tasker deserves to be recognized as part of the league's history, too. As far as players on the Bills' Super Bowl teams and the Hall of Fame, Jim Kelly and Thurman Thomas are in while of course Bruce Smith and Andre Reed will join them; after that, some will argue for Kent Hull, Cornelius Bennett and even Darryl Talley. Each of the non-locks has various arguments in favor of his respective admittance, but Steve Tasker has the best case, as he was the one who changed games and single-handedly contributed to the Bills' success.
May 16, 2007
Naples' Coleman begins the trek as undrafted free agent with Bills
Coleman's biggest challenge, John Guy said, is that he must learn to play "on an island" -- isolated in one-on-one situations without safety help -- a strategy that wasn't emphasized as much at Clemson, where the corners had fewer responsibilities in man coverage.
Bills Sign Pair Of Tryout Players
They had one weekend to make a notable impression during Buffalo's rookie minicamp, and two of the 15 tryout players invited for the three-day session were signed by the Bills. Sacred Heart safety Jon Corto and North Carolina linebacker Larry Edwards were both signed by the club on Wednesday.
Bills Sign Two From Try-Out Weekend
The Bills have inked some depth at defensive back and linebacker - signing safety Jon Corto and linebacker Larry Edwards. Corto hails from Orchard Park and played his college ball at Sacred Heart. He is switching from his college position, linebacker, to safety with the Bills.
Season Ticket Holders Line Up For Pre-Sale
Bills general manager Marv Levy had stopped down to welcome some of those season ticket holders that had come out to buy individual tickets. "I heard there was an unruly crowd down here," Levy cracked. To which a couple of Bills fans in line responded jokingly. "Get to the back of the line!"
Lots of Hoopla over Walker; Why? He’s a Backup!
Darwin Walker is a below average player. So what is this team waiting for? Let’s get him signed to a rich deal quickly and get that marketing machine moving forward all telling us how they expect him to be a vital part of our team and make an impact beginning this fall and as he moves into his 30’s. We have heard it all already, so why the hesitation?
Rookies enter a whole new world
Following a weekend of immersing themselves in the Xs and Os of a playbook, members of the 2007 Buffalo Bills rookie class studied something else Tuesday. Their new home. The Bills organized a tour of Buffalo and its surrounding neighborhoods for 19 members of the rookie class, designed to give them an idea about where they’ll live, work and play in the upcoming months and years.
Bills rookies get a look at the city
The Bills organized the tour with the help of the Leadership Buffalo organization. Staff members of Experience Buffalo, a program run by Leadership Buffalo to help acquaint newcomers to the city, led the tour. “This trip gives our young players a great opportunity to see what Buffalo is all about,” said Scott Berchtold, the Bills’ vice president of communications. “Our organization is so interested in making our players a part of the fabric of the community, and it starts with this.
Rookie minicamp gives Bills' fans a taste of potential
It's just performing drills and catching passes without game pressure, but anyone who's into sports knows that seeing guys live is a huge upgrade over seeing tape. Accounts are that Lynch gobbled up every pass thrown his way and showed his trademark speed, so in that light the event was as successful as could be expected.
May 15, 2007
Free agent DT Rayburn visits Bills
The Buffalo Bills, still looking to strengthen their defensive line, brought in free agent defensive tackle Sam Rayburn for a visit today. Rayburn spent his first four seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles, who signed the 6-foot-3, 303-pounder as an undrafted free agent out of Tulsa in 2003.
Tasker Finally Gets a Fraction of the Honors that He Deserves
If you only plan on attending one game to go to this year, make it the game during which Steve Tasker’s name is placed on the Wall of Fame at Ralph Wilson Stadium. That alone will be worth the price of admission for those that remember the Tasker era Bills. I typically do not join the chorus of praise in the media for players given awards for the sole reason that it is overkill in a flood of duplicitous kudos. But an exception must absolutely be made in the case of Steve Tasker.
Offseason update: Buffalo Bills
This is what I like about the Buffalo Bills' offseason moves: They upgraded their offensive line with the additions of a pair of free agents, guard Derrick Dockery from the Washington Redskins and tackle Langston Walker from the Oakland Raiders. The 6-foot-6, 330-pound Dockery and 6-8, 345-pound Walker bring considerable size and skill that should improve the protection of J.P. Losman, who was sacked 47 times last season, and help establish a more consistently effective rushing attack.
Bills Host Free Agent DT Rayburn
Still looking to fortify their defensive interior the Buffalo Bills hosted free agent defensive tackle Sam Rayburn Tuesday.
Calling all cornerbacks: Bills need you
Coach Dick Jauron hasn’t placed an ad like this one, but he pretty much flashed the Help Wanted sign when he discussed the Bills’ cornerback situation. That was a position of need that wasn’t addressed in the draft last month because Nate Clements’ free agency departure leaves the team with only four corners — Terrence McGee, Kiwaukee Thomas, Jabari Greer and Ashton Youboty — that have NFL experience. So there is an opening at cornerback on this roster and Jauron has this to say to anyone interested: Come and get it.
Bills conclude rookie workouts
The Buffalo Bills wrapped up the on-field portion of their rookie orientation with two practices today, one outside in Ralph Wilson Stadium, and one inside the fieldhouse.
On the contrary: Buffalo should give Darwin his due
In late March, the Buffalo Bills traded former Pro Bowl linebacker Takeo Spikes and No. 2 quarterback Kelly Holcomb to the Philadelphia Eagles for defensive tackle Darwin Walker, and the latter seemed eager at the time to start anew in Western New York. Now, though, it appears the 29-year-old's excitement has turned to frustration. The problem the seven-year veteran is having regards his contract.
Edwards was too tempting for Bills to pass up
ORCHARD PARK — The Brady Quinn saga was perhaps the biggest story of the 2007 NFL Draft, but the former Notre Dame star, once thought to be the No. 1 overall pick, wasn't the only highly rated quarterback who slid down the board a couple of weeks ago.
Bills cut resale deal with Ticketmaster
The Buffalo Bills announced Monday a partnership with Ticketmaster to be the team's exclusive authorized ticket resale provider. Terms of the contract were not disclosed. Ticketmaster has an existing deal with the National Football League franchise for ticket sales for all home games. Officials said the new pact will include the launch of the Bills TicketExchange where ticket holders may post tickets to home games for resale. A link will be found via the team's Web site, buffalobills.com.
May 14, 2007
Bills Rookie Camp: Day Three Notes
Day three in Ralph Wilson stadium for the rookies and practice squad players got started Monday morning with the first of two workouts which will wrap up the rookie camp.
QB Edwards in New York state of mind
Edwards was wise enough not to rip the Buffalo culture, which moved him directly ahead of Willis McGahee and Ray Emery on the local popularity charts. He also had the sense not to suggest that the Bills owe him the chance to compete for the No. 1 quarterback job in July. “There’s definitely a starter in this organization,” Edwards said, “and I’m going to try to learn as much as possible from him.”
Corto feels right at home
But for Corto, this weekend was a completely new experience. As a life-long Bills fan, he often wondered what it would be like to play for them. To be able to don the jersey and helmet of his hometown team is a feeling only he can describe. “It’s a dream come true,” said Corto, who is one of 15 players invited to the minicamp as tryouts. “Obviously I always wanted to play for a team like the Bills, a great organization. I’m just happy to be out here. I’m having fun, working hard and trying to make the most of this opportunity.”
Bills should be willing to walk away from Walker
Darwin Walker went from enthusiastic potential fan favorite to annoying pariah before even showing up in his new home, Buffalo. His comical demand for a new contract is even funnier if one remembers his remarks immediately after he was dealt to the Bills, including his observation that, "I'm very excited about this opportunity and I'm looking forward to getting down there."
May 13, 2007
Bills Rookie Camp: Day Two Notes
Day two of Bills rookie camp didn't have many highlights as the players continued in their efforts to absorb the respective offensive and defensive systems on the fly while practicing in Ralph Wilson Stadium.
A ‘Special’ Wall of Fame Honoree
There's little question that no one changed the opinion of special
teams play in NFL history, let alone Bills history more than Steve
Tasker.
Sure there have been some electrifying return men in the history of
the game, and some fantastic clutch kickers, but there are very few
gunners and punt rushers that put fear into their opponents more than
Buffalo's special teams ace.
That specialist, who also effectively answered the bell when used as
a receiver, will now be special for all-time in Bills annals as he was
unanimously named the 24th member of the Bills Wall of Fame.
Lynch gets to show his stuff
He caught passes out of the backfield that were thrown by
quarterbacks other than J.P. Losman. He ran behind offensive linemen
not named Jason Peters. But all was well for running back
Marshawn Lynch, who began the next phase of his football career during
the first day of the Buffalo Bills’ rookie minicamp at Ralph Wilson
Stadium.
BILLS: Lynch excited to get going in rookie camp
ORCHARD PARK —
Bills running
back Marshawn Lynch couldn’t have been happier after finally practicing
with his new professional team, even if it was just an informal get
together with his fellow first-year players.
Bills give Tasker top honor
The Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton may not be ready for Steve
Tasker. But the Wall of Fame at Ralph Wilson Stadium in Orchard Park
surely is. Tasker,
the ultimate underdog, who revolutionized the way special teams were
played in the NFL while starring for the Buffalo Bills from 1986 to
1997, is the team's Wall of Fame inductee this year.
Bills report: Strategy and personnel
Nothing ventured, nothing gained. That's the attitude the Bills
took with DT Manny Wright when they plucked him off waivers after
Wright's release from the Miami Dolphins. But it took only a week for
Buffalo to decide Wright couldn't help them as much as adding more
depth at cornerback could.
Bills report: Inside slant
The Bills
got more than a veteran defensive tackle to help with their run
stuffing and pass rush when they traded with the Philadelphia Eagles
for Darwin Walker this off-season.They also inherited a contract squabble.
Bills report: Notes, quotes
-ESPN analyst, former NFL quarterback and Buffalo native Ron Jaworski praised his hometown team for selecting Stanford QB in the third round: "That's a value pick came on but it creates healthy competition in Buffalo, a team on the rise."
A ‘Special’ Wall of Fame Honoree
There's little question that no one changed the opinion of special teams play in NFL history, let alone Bills history more than Steve Tasker.
May 12, 2007
Bills Invite Former SU Quarterback To Minicamp
Former SU quarterback Perry
Patterson will attend the Buffalo Bills minicamp this weekend.
Patterson, who was undrafted a few weeks ago, will join 42 other
rookies in Buffalo this weekend. There is no guarantee of a roster
spot. But if Patterson impresses it could lead to something long term.
He's one of two quarterbacks at the minicamp. Patterson finished his SU
career at the Orange's fourth leading passer of all time behind Marvin
Graves, Donovan McNabb & Don MacPherson.
Bills Rookie Camp: Day One Notes
The Bills began the first day of their rookie minicamp with their
2007 draft class, last year's practice squad players, 15 undrafted free
agents and 15 tryout players Saturday morning.The coaching staff started with the pure basics right away.
"You start at ground zero which is a good thing for them," said head
coach Dick Jauron. "That's good. They're not focused on veterans or
looking over their shoulders at somebody else. They're all in the same
boat, none of them know the system. And with no veterans here we have
an opportunity all of our attention is directed at them. I think there
are some real good things about this."
Bills welcome rookies
The Buffalo Bills will get their first look at their newly acquired
talent this weekend during a three-day minicamp that begins today at
the team’s training facility. Running back Marshawn Lynch and linebacker Paul Posluszny and the other
five 2007 draft picks will get their first on-field work. They will be
joined by 15 undrafted rookies and six practice squad players without
an accredited NFL season for two 90-minute sessions today and Monday
and one 90-minute workout on Sunday.
May 11, 2007
How Lacrosse Helped Bills’ Fowler
Buffalo's pivot man took to the game quickly. As a 230-pound defenseman Fowler kept many an attack man out of the crease despite most of them being smaller and quicker. But Fowler was pretty agile himself, so much so that his coach gave him an expanded role as a defensive midfielder. It allowed Fowler to use his speed as the NFL offensive linemen moved at a pretty good clip as a high schooler.
Walker wants new contract
Irby said the Bills knew his client wanted a new contract when they traded for him. “They understood the conditions of the trade,” Irby said. “We spoke to the Bills prior to the trade, explained what we were looking for and it was their decision to make the trade or not make the trade. They decided to make the trade, so I can only assume they are going to give Darwin a new deal. “They don’t have to do it. But if they don’t, they probably won’t see Darwin around there.”
Bills' Wright will get chance to bruise opponents
The hope for Bills fans is that defenders frustrated all day by their inability to obtain Lynch for tackling purposes will then face the prospect of becoming doormats for the charging Wright. He has the opportunity to carve out a role as a part-time smashback who contributes toward the full-time goal of making defenses miserable.
May 10, 2007
Bills DT Walker seeks new contract
Newly acquired defensive tackle Darwin Walker won't report to the Buffalo Bills until he receives a contract extension. Acquired in a trade in March that sent linebacker Takeo Spikes to Philadelphia, Walker on Thursday said he hasn't visited Buffalo yet and will not report until a new deal is completed. Walker has two years left on his existing contract, but was attempting to negotiate a new deal with the Eagles.
Jauron Confident In Linebacker Depth
Bills head coach Dick Jauron feels the unit is in good shape in terms of talent and depth. "I really like it," said Jauron of his stable of linebackers. "The fact is that everybody in that lineup all 10 of them will be competitive."....With the spring camps and OTA's close to getting underway the projected starters as things stand now would be Angelo Crowell on the strong side, the rookie Posluszny in the middle and second-year man Keith Ellison on the weak side.
How Effective was the Bills Draft?
So that’s 14 spots where an upgrade to "above average" would have been helpful and nice. That of course presumes that last season’s rookies Whitner and Simpson continue to improve and that Dockery and Peters do the same and play to an average-plus level again, and that Losman steps up as well since overall he was not much better than average if even that, again, overall with shortcomings in his short-to-medium passing game. Nevertheless, the Bills made their draft...
Bills fans can enjoy a party: NFL Network to replay the comeback against Houston
Leading off with a May 31 viewing and party suggestion for Buffalo Bills fans: Find a friend who subscribes to the NFL Network and has a spacious patio deck with a portable big-screen TV, get the grill ready, stock up the refrigerator and invite every Bills fan you enjoy socializing with for the first complete replay of the most amazing comeback in league history. The NFL Network tonight begins a four week series of replays of the league's all-time greatest comebacks.
Moulds to Buffalo won't, and shouldn't, happen
Eric Moulds had a great Buffalo career, emerging from two early seasons where he hovered near bust territory to become the second-best receiver in franchise history. But it's done. A player who always oscillated between simply having strong opinions and being a loudmouth chose to permanently cross over to the dark side a while ago...
May 09, 2007
Bills waive DT Wright, add CB Coleman
Manuel Wright didn't last long with the Buffalo Bills. A week after being acquired off waivers by Buffalo, the defensive tackle was waived Wednesday to allow the Bills to sign rookie free agent defensive back Duane Coleman.
20th Annual Jim Kelly Football Camp Almost Here
Jim Kelly Football Camp 2007, presented by McDonald's, is set for June 27 - June 30 and July 16 - July 19. Featuring Jim Kelly, with special guest J.P. Losman, this year's camps include three days of complete coaching instruction, lunch, use of the Bills training facilities, a team photo, and a Jim Kelly Football camp T-shirt and hat.
Buffalo Bills’ Rookies Face Undue Pressure This Season
When one considers the team that the Buffalo Bills have assembled to hit the gridiron this fall, it is easy to notice what the primary impetus for changes to assist in propelling this 7-win poorly performing (statistically) team forward is. So how will that bear out this fall? Surely hopes are high at present, but are fans being set up like bowling pins again?
The typical offseason is laced with team statements as to how they actually understand what “went wrong” the season prior for those teams not having made the playoffs and even teams having made them yet not achieved the ultimate prize. Certain teams however consistently dwell among the perennially playoff performing teams while others continue to bottom feed, and yet with others in between the two.
The Bills are presently tied with the franchise’s playoff drought record and look to set a new one at eight with another non-appearance this fall. They currently hold the franchise’s longest stretch of season’s minus a playoff win at 11 seasons entering this ’07 season now and on the verge of making it an even dozen. Since the NFL began, the Bills’ longest streak of non-winning seasons is four and has occurred twice, last in ’84 thru ’87, and before that from ’76 thru ’79. A losing season this year and it would be the Bills’ third straight losing season and fourth in five seasons.
Interestingly, the ’76 team was built very much like the ’07 model. A 29-year old and well within prime OJ Simpson produced over 1,500 yards rushing in a fourteen game season, yet the team managed only a 2-12 record due to terrible defense. Can Lynch match Simpson’s 1,503 rushing yards, 8 rushing TDs, and 22 catches for 259 yards and 1 receiving TD? If so, how many games will that help this team win? We don’t know obviously, but what is certain is that if Lynch can simply get to 1,000 behind this line on a team that is short-passing-game challenged, he will be doing well for himself.
Fans are hoping to see all of that altered and the team, while not having come out strongly insisting that that will be the case, has insisted that the team has improved. Improvement necessarily entails some measure in mathematical or other objective and substantiated terms that are required to support such notions. In the case of the Bills that would either be in terms of statistical improvement on the whole or across the board on average, or greater than 7 wins, in spite of the latter being merely one indicator in a menagerie of many and one with a potential for a more than marginal degree of superficiality one way or the other.
Quite frankly, if the team has not improved at all or by much, then fans certainly have the justification to begin questioning the team’s methodologies leaving the season following as perhaps a “do or die” season in terms of management and coaching. Would not asking the tough questions at some point be reasonable and justifiable for fans demanding the best from those entrusted to run their team?
Since wins are often a less reliable measure given the impact that strength of schedule can make, one way or the other, how a team performs statistically in a plethora of categories does in fact provide a better measurement of precisely where a team stacks up against its NFL counterparts.
But I digress. Defensively the Bills are a very young team while offensively not so much. But exactly what must occur for the Bills to “progress” come this September?
Defensively the Bills lost three of their more consistent and impactful performers. Nate Clements, highly overrated as a cover cornerback yet a hard hitter notwithstanding and at least somewhat erroneously considered among the best cover cornerbacks in the league by many, was perhaps the most notable loss defensively. He joins former defensive centerpiece London Fletcher and fellow linebacking cohort Takeo Spikes as the three primary players lost that will reshape the team.
While Spikes was not his usual self this past season in a year of recovery from a devastating Achilles tendon injury, he would have continued to improve this season with the only lingering question mark having been by how much. The trade for the pretty much washed up and very mediocre Darwin Walker will prove itself out in terms of equity for the team one way or the other this fall. What can be said now is that it is difficult if not impossible to imagine a scenario in which the result of that trade ends up favoring the Bills from an equity standpoint.
The “equity” part of that trade is neither here nor there in an honest discussion of the team to hit the field this fall. Walker is and will remain a backup with the Bills for as long as he remains with the team, which figures to be this season only in all likelihood. The Bills have a stable full of Walker-like DTs already, one more isn’t going to add anything at all. Spikes would have been an improved version of himself on a team sorely needing LBs now, not in two or three seasons necessarily. What will matter in about four short months is how the net changes on the team shake out.
Defensively, Clements (CB), Fletcher (MLB), and Spikes (OLB) are the primary net losses while newbie rookie Paul Posluszny (MLB) is the sole newcomer amongst starters.
Offensively the net primary/starting changes are “Mouth” McGahee (RB) out, Damian Shelton (FB) out, Langston Walker (RT), Derrick Dockery (LG), and newbie rookie Marshawn Lynch (RB) in.
Defensively speaking, Posluszny, if the Bills are to remain a team comparable to where they were last season, must perform equal to the Clements-Flether-Spikes trio in terms of overall performance. Clearly that is not in the offing as it is not even possible. Yet, if the team is not to regress from last season to this one, and there really isn’t a whole lot of room to sink much further if we are going to be perfectly honest here, then the gains will have to overcome the losses somehow.
The homer answer to the above is that 7 or 8 players on defense alone are all of a sudden and without any reason positioned for breakout seasons, which will occur. Obviously it must if those fans’ expectations are to take root. Fans hoping for that must obviously believe that 2007 is their lucky year for perhaps no other reason than having eaten Chinese recently and having been informed via fortune cookie that this was the case.
Offensively the team is perhaps marginally better than it was last season. The Bills picked up Dockery, a good acquisition discounting the contract portion of it, along with Langston Walker who will bear out to be nothing more than the rotational hopes-gone-bust that a long string of other former Bills linemen brought on have provided. If fans did not like Mike Gandy, then they will not like Langston Walker who may not even be as good as Mike Gandy. Otherwise, the impetus for improvement befalls the young junior PAC-10 RB who is just barely old enough to purchase a bottle of champagne to celebrate his first NFL TD whenever it happens.
Lynch has no significant blockers, much less any with any NFL experience, to assist him from the offensive backfield. From the center to the right side of the line is still about as dicey as it was last season plus-or-minus a tweak here or there. Those building this team are clearly relying on Lynch’s reported “maneuverability” to overcome what will no doubt be defensive players in the Bills’ offensive backfield more than occasionally. Meanwhile, big bad OL coach Jim McNally’s sheen as some sort of miracle healer has come off a while ago and his reputation in that way is about as lustrous and appealing as a rusted out weather-beaten ’76 AMC Pacer sitting on blocks in the front yard of some yokel.
While Dockery was an improvement, we all know full well that if things do not “go as planned” this fall that the heat will not befall a relatively low-profile lineman, nor will they likely befall the roots of the team’s issues due to the charms and paper credentials of those responsible for planning this, … this thing. Those entrusted with constructing, maintaining, and keeping this machine well oiled, and having failed to date, are far too shrewd to position themselves to bear such a burden.
No, they will befall the young rookie RB selected 12th overall in the 2007 draft. Much as McGahee took the heat for all of the team’s offensive rushing woes, so too will Lynch bear the primary burden there in spite of it being tremendously unfair to the junior rookie.
With big hype, high selections, and trade-ups consumed to acquire the only two players that may make a difference for the Bills this fall, also come a tall order of expectations. But just as the Wysman has warned in numerous seasons past, this will end up being unfair to both rookies and has the potential even to harm their careers, if not effectively managed, some of which will include simply being thrown into the fire too early and to be counted on far too heavily. They are certainly not enviable roles for either player.
If the Bills “move in the positive direction” offensively this autumn, then there will be plenty of praise for all involved from Losman, to Lynch, to Dockery, to Walker, to the Ivy League Dynamic Duo. If they do so defensively, then there will be plenty of praise for Posluszny, Simpson, Whitner, and perhaps even McCargo and Tripplett thereby hoisting the methodologies of the Ivy League Dynamic Duo aloft in a pose of proving everything that the Wysman has provided from an analysis perspective wrong, with the Wysman on his knees before that image.
If they do not improve to the requisite extent however, or perhaps not at all not to even mention further regression, then the lion’s share of the criticism will befall the junior rookie Lynch and the raw Posluszny, while the lesser profile elements, least of all not the Ivy League Dynamic Duo, will have hedged themselves in nicely given the schtick on their highly selected draftees, and allowing them to provide further promises from a draft laden with “future” impact players. Presumably notions that in order for those players to reach such a status their other players brought on via either draft or free agency would have to fail for one reason or another will be entirely overlooked by those fans that are eternal optimists, read suckers.
After all, Lynch is arguably the best RB in this draft class from an all-around perspective. Certainly even the Wysman has suggested that he was a better risk than Peterson was, at least insofar as durability concerns were factored into the mix. He certainly seems to be more versatile adding value to his NFL hopes. Notwithstanding, he has simply not posted collegiate numbers equivalent to some other highly touted RBs having fared poorly in the NFL.
Perhaps the most appropriate comparison in that way would be J.J. Arrington, also a Cal product, who posted then again about 50% the stats that Lynch did in his final season and had better combine measurables. So it would be premature indeed to assume that Lynch, particularly given the situation he will be thrown into, will meet expectations in discussing his future greatness in this manner. It perhaps only heightens concerns to realize that the situation that Arrington was thrown into was very similar to the one that Lynch is about to be tried by fire in.
As to Posluszny, in spite of having been the third OLB, or second MLB depending upon one’s perspective, and fourth overall LB selected, and in spite of having been taken 34th overall via trade-up and two picks into the 2nd round, he also brings first-round expectations, or very close to it, onto the grid iron this fall.
The spotlight will be on those two players. If the offense improves, then Lynch will be the first to grab the credit. For how the offense would improve without a tremendous boost in the rushing game sans much, if any, alteration or less-so any improvement in the passing game remains a mystery.
If the defense improves, a tall order given the net changes from last season to this one, then Posluszny will also be perfectly positioned to reap perhaps more than his share of the limelight too. For how the defense will improve without a decent MLB or an improved rushing defense remains even more a mystery than the aforementioned mystery.
The ones that should be on the hotseat for this coming season are the Ivy League Dynamic Duo and their analytically and knowledge challenged personnel departments and staffs. But alas for Lynch and Posluszny, the ones that will be on the hotseat are they themselves directly, those that selected them only indirectly in a “well, we [everyone] all thought…” mantra.
It’s a pity too if things do not work out as promised because both seem like very nice young gentlemen and neither has presented himself with even a hint of McGahee-like self aggrandizement both having come off as extremely humble and genuinely good guys!
Promises are promises however. With promises come expectations. And while neither player has promised the world or even anything at all, the Ivy League Dynamic Duo has made promises, both actively as well as implicitly via their “all their eggs in one basket” “only one player away on both O and D” approach to correcting the woes of this bottom-dwelling team.
There is not one other player drafted that will even be in a position to make any sort of even marginal impact due to their ongoing statuses as backups for the foreseeable future. If they do then it will be in replacement of former ILDD hopefuls for one reason or another, not as a replacement for an under-performing player that preexisted their arrival.
As a result, the grade for this draft is left teetering on the fence with a yard having a lawn resembling a golf course fairway on one side, yet with a yard looking like the county dump on the other. There is little middle ground in the outcome of the grade for this draft, and by design, whether intentional or not.
Here’s to hoping that the newbie youngsters begin their NFL careers off with a bang that’s heard around the proverbial world. NFL history suggests however that that shot is not likely to exit the musket with the velocity that many are hoping for.
mweiler@afceastreport.com
Mark Weiler writes regularly for www.AFCEastReport.com
Pair of Renegades attending Buffalo minicamp
The inaugural Lubbock Renegades of the arenafootball2 are excited to announce that defensive linemen Chris Hudler and Kenyon Scott have been invited to Buffalo Bills minicamp this weekend. They become the first ever Renegades to have an opportunity to advance their careers to the next level.
Bills Rookie Back Has The Wright Stuff
"He's just a tough hard-nosed between the tackles grind-it-out, pound-on-you type of runner," said Bills scout Terry Wooden. "He's the type of guy where if you put him in there he'll wear you out. He runs hard in the first quarter and he runs hard in the fourth quarter."
Schouman's versatility could help Bills
Buffalo is focused on having roster two-for-ones, and Schouman could fill the bill as a player able to block and field checkdown passes from the end of the line and also take on defenders in the backfield as a rush-blocking fullback. Of course, any production obtained from a final-round pick will be a bonus.
May 08, 2007
Lester Moves Up NFL Tenure List
For Lester he has yet to come to the realization that he's been with the Bills for 20 years. "It still hasn't hit me," said Lester. "Every day I walk in here I think, 'Wow I can't believe I'm going to do this.' And you're so busy in this line of work all the time you don't even think about all the time that has gone by." Lester has had opportunities to leave for other coaching posts in the past, but each time he obviously decided against it.
BILLS DOSE: SI writers weigh in on Lynch
Sports Illustrated writer Peter King thinks Marshawn Lynch will be the 2007 offensive rookie of the year, but his colleague, Paul Zimmerman, questions why the Bills had to draft Lynch in the first place.
Bills' Scobey will get chance to shine on special teams
Where Scobey may prove to be most valuable is to the defense, as his ability to return kickoffs could mean former Pro Bowler Terrence McGee will no longer be doing so. The new guy may not have as gaudy a lifetime return average as the established returner (22.4 yards for Scobey versus 27.1 for McGee), but then again, few players do. Scobey has been good enough in the past that he could win the present job, and he gives the Bills an option to use McGee in a purely defensive role.
May 07, 2007
Edwards Another Reich?
"I thought it was pretty clear going into the draft that we needed a quarterback because we lost Kelly (Holcomb)," said head coach Dick Jauron. "We were down a quarterback and we were looking for a second or third quarterback. We figured later in the draft we would come upon that guy, but when he presented himself early, there it was an opportunity for a backup." Some observers viewed it as a challenge to J.P Losman's job as starting quarterback despite the dismissals of that theory by GM Marv Levy and Jauron on draft weekend. More realistically the Bills see Edwards as an alternative at quarterback, similar to a signal caller they also drafted in the third round 22 years ago named Frank Reich.
Another Take on the Bills Draft
The Bills draft would have been appropriate and outstanding for a team with absolutely no candidate to run the ball, a QB on the outs or no starting QB altogether, one in need of a only a MLB presumably, and one needing a starting safety. The Bills meet only one of those four criteria as they have Anthony Thomas who ran better than McGahee last season in starts and who was brought on by Marv Levy and Dick Jauron themselves with the understanding and made statements insisting that he was in fact capable of starting, unless of course Levy and Jauron were lying to us. They also have a QB for the foreseeable future in Losman who did make strides last season. They had a MLB need, but also an OLB need.
Levy balances value with need at draft
Buffalo's general manager, Marv Levy, has had two strong drafts, as he's refused to be lured into picking highly rated players during early rounds at positions where the Bills have an abundance of able bodies. The most obvious example is first-round pick Marshawn Lynch. He's as strong as he is elusive, a player who can catch passes out of the backfield and change directions as quickly as a character in a Sega Genesis version of Madden.
May 06, 2007
Bills Draft Reviews
A week after the NFL draft all the reviews are in, and most of them were in favor of Buffalo's approach in addressing the holes that existed on their roster. Below we provide a list of draft grades provided by some of the more notable national media outlets.
USA Today - Tom Weir
Three out of four stars
Buffalo Bills ***
RB Marshawn Lynch makes Willis McGahee's departure tolerable. LB Paul Posluszny is a mini-steal with the 34th pick. QB Trent Edwards is a questionable third-round pick, considering Buffalo has multiple defensive needs.
Bills were wise to avoid filling needs in picks
The Bills didn’t need a quarterback on the first day of the draft. But they had to take one at some point. Trent Edwards is a far, far better prospect than anyone they could have drafted on the second day. The Bills didn’t need another running back in the fourth round. They took Fresno State’s Dwayne Wright. They had a strong conviction on him. If Wright is really good, the coaches will find a way to use him and he will help the team.
Fantasy Football: Pats, Bills and Niners take big steps forward
Marshawn Lynch: Did anybody really think the Buffalo Bills would head to camp with Anthony Thomas as the No. 1 tailback? Lynch catches the ball much better than Willis McGahee, who was the starter last season. Despite back and ankle injuries that dogged Lynch during the second half of last season, he rushed for 111 yards and two TDs for California in its 45-10 win over Texas A&M in the Holiday Bowl.
NBC clueless; Bills give fans some hints on plans
The Bills needed another quality back to reinforce the combination of rookie Marshawn Lynch and Anthony Thomas. Shaud Williams was the No. 3 back last season, but he carried the ball just twice for 2 yards and did not catch a pass. Wright is not as fast as Williams but he stands more than four inches taller and is 33 pounds heavier.
Bills' upside passes 'overrated' Jets
I prefer Buffalo quarterback J.P. Losman over a surgically repaired Chad Pennington. I prefer Buffalo's wide receivers. I believe Buffalo's offensive line will be much-improved this season. I think Bills rookie running back Marshawn Lynch can be as productive as Jets import Thomas Jones this season. I think Buffalo has a better pass rush (outsacked the Jets 40-35 last season) and a promising secondary. I prefer Buffalo's special teams. I even like Buffalo's uniforms better.
May 05, 2007
Ex-Buffalo Bill Christie getting kick out of life
"There has been some chit-chat, but I haven't done anything about it and nothing has been worked out," says Christie, who will be at the Crowne Plaza this evening for the Finger Lakes International Wine Auction and Dinner to benefit Camp Good Days and Special Times. "I'd say the odds are about three out of 10 that I would make a comeback. The door is still open a crack, but its creaking closer to being shut."
May 04, 2007
Very Tense Moment On Draft Day
As Buffalo's third-round selection (#92) approached it became obvious to the Bills that Stanford quarterback Trent Edwards was their only realistic option in terms of value. No other player on the board was close to him in terms of grade. The only fear was having another team leapfrog Buffalo and take the sliding quarterback before the Bills 92nd pick. That fear came a lot closer to being reality when the Saints called Buffalo's draft room four choices prior to the Bills' selection.
Bills sign two Gators, Scobey
Two members of the University of Florida’s national championship team were among 15 undrafted college free agents signed by the Buffalo Bills. The Bills also added some special teams depth by signing free agent Josh Scobey from the Seattle Seahawks. Receiver Jemalle Cornelius and cornerback Reggie Lewis were the two Gators signed.
Quarterback Kelly to give autographs at store in mall
Former Buffalo Bills quarterback Jim Kelly will give autographs with the purchase of a Hunter's Hope Bear "Tears" for a $30 donation from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. May 9 in front of the Bills Store at Eastview Mall.
Bills sign running back Scobey
The Bills value Scobey's special teams ability. He will also compete for a backup running back spot in Buffalo behind first-round draft pick Marshawn Lynch, selected 12th overall in Saturday's draft, and veteran backup Anthony Thomas.
Crowell ready to become a leader on Buffalo's 'D'
Now, after four years of playing second fiddle to more well-known defenders, Crowell has become a veteran standout. He's joined by the likes of Chris Kelsay, Ryan Denney, Aaron Schobel and Terrence McGee as long-term mainstays on Buffalo's defense. And Crowell is ready to set an example for the Bills' younger players. "The baton's been passed down to me now, and I see myself as the leader of the defense right now," the 6-foot-1, 246-pounder told Sirius NFL Radio on Thursday.
May 03, 2007
Bills sign 15 free agents
The Buffalo Bills today announced that 15 undrafted free agents have agreed to terms with the team.
Bills Agree To Terms With 15 Undrafted Free Agents
WR – Aaron Brown (New Hampshire)
CB – Duane Coleman (Clemson)
WR – Jemalle Cornelius (Florida)
G – Corey Davis (James Madison)
C – Christian Gaddis (Villanova)
DT – LaRon Harris (Northwestern Oklahoma State)
FS – Trevor Hooper (Stanford)
P – Chris Jackson (Louisiana State)
CB – Reggie Lewis (Florida)
DT – Corey Mace (Wyoming)
WR – Scott Mayle (Ohio University)
WR - Johnny Quinn (North Texas)
SS – Stacey Thomas (Texas Southern)
G – Zach Tubbs (Arkansas)
LB – Thaddaeus Washington (Colorado)
A Closer Look At The Bills Undrafteds
Last weekend the Bills did not draft a cornerback or a receiver. But by the end of the night Buffalo had verbal agreements with four wideouts, two corners and nine other undrafted college free agents. "We put up a list of players that we need at certain positions and determine how many we need at each position to fill out a roster," said Bills GM Marv Levy.
Bills Sign Josh Scobey
Scobey played in 12 games for the Seattle Seahawks in 2006 and contributed primarily on special teams. He finished the season with 17 kick returns for 315 yards. Scobey also added 12 special teams tackles.
Tasker gives an inside look at the NFL
He admitted, “There were occasions where I actually went to the training staff and said, ‘Can you get me ready,’ and they offered me the option. “But it’s not the way a lot of people believe it is today (in the NFL). Never have I seen or heard about where a team will twist a player’s arm, figuratively speaking, to get him ready to play ... ask a player to take an injection. In fact, it’s just the opposite. Usually the player will ask and demand the training staff make him ready to play in that manner.”
Bills pick up Wright
The Buffalo Bills decided to take a chance on big defensive tackle Manny Wright by claiming him off waivers on Wednesday. Wright was cut by the Miami Dolphins earlier this week. He’s a 6-foot-6, 329-pounder from the University of Southern California.
Draft turned Buffalo's backfield into a strength
After Saturday, most believed the Bills were content with their offensive backfield, considering Lynch and Thomas would have made up a formidable tandem. However, the team decided to further strengthen the position, drafting ex-Fresno State RB Dwayne Wright in the fourth round. With the 111th overall selection, Buffalo simply couldn't pass on Wright. At 5-11, 228 pounds, Wright could possibly be a great runner in short-yardage and goal-line situations.
May 02, 2007
Bills Claim DT Wright
The Buffalo Bills addressed their nose tackle position Wednesday when they successfully claimed defensive tackle Manny Wright off waivers. The former Miami Dolphin was released by Buffalo's AFC East rival Tuesday.
Mama Delisa on Marshawn
Lynch was the same way at Cal with young Bears' fans and his mom believes that Bills fans will come to appreciate that about him too. "One of the things that they're going to really love about him is Marshawn doesn't like to turn away one kid," she said. "If there's a kid in his line and they want an autograph Marshawn will stay there until every last one of them is happy. It's always about the kids with him."
Bills Draft Review: Bills’ Brain Trust Reveals Lack of Awareness of Most Pressing Team Needs
Let the pundits say what they will, but this draft was not a good one for the Bills on the whole. Furthermore, if either Posluszny or Lynch fails to meet expectations and fairly soon, then it will have been relegated to the scrap heap right quickly. Edwards likely won’t see the field in any significant capacity for seasons if ever at all. If Wright does then what would that say about either the drafting of Lynch or the status of the team? If Wendling starts then obviously that would not be good news regarding either Whitner or Simpson, players supposed to have been fixtures in the Bills’ D for many, many seasons.
Ex-pro quarterback to speak at Oaklawn event
Former Buffalo Bills quarterback Jim Kelly will be the speaker for the eighth annual Oaklawn Spring Spectacular May 11. The event will be at the Matterhorn Banquet and Conference Center in Elkhart, beginning at 6:30 p.m.
Don't worry about Posluszny
Although it can get a little cold in upstate New York, "Puz" should really enjoy his time with the Bills. Buffalo is a passionate football city. The fans there have a zest for the game much like Steelers' fans do. And Buffalo is close enough to Hopewell that Posluszny's family and friends can drive there in less than four hours. On the field, Posluszny will no doubt start immediately and pick up where he left off at Linebacker U.
Marshawn a mom-made man
Delisa Lynch says if there’s one thing she wants the people of Buffalo to know about the Bills’ top draft choice, it is this: “Please don’t judge my son by his appearance,” Lynch said by telephone early this week. “When you see this black guy with dreadlocks and gold in his mouth, don’t put him down as some thug. Get to know Marshawn and you’ll know he’s a much different character.”
Bills’ Modrak to get extension
After a morning meeting with Bills owner Ralph C. Wilson Jr., Modrak agreed to remain in the Bills’ front office. He has held the title of assistant general manager, but it was unclear if that title would change under his new agreement.
For better or worse, Bills' CBs remain unchanged
Of course, if the 5-11, 189-pound Youboty -- whom the Bills spent a third-round pick on a year ago -- lives up to his vast potential as a sophomore in the NFL, he'll be a high-caliber defensive back. The same can be said about penciled-in No. 1 man Terrence McGee (nine career interceptions), a four-year veteran who was solid until last season, when he struggled mightily opposite Clements. Thomas and Greer, meanwhile, are decent veteran players who won't do any harm in their roles as No. 3 and No. 4 corners, respectively. Bassey, who is the Bills' fifth CB right now, is an unknown.
May 01, 2007
Bills Retain Tom Modrak
The Buffalo Bills have retained the services of the head of their college scouting department. Tom Modrak has agreed to remain with the club and will continue to serve the organization in that capacity. Owner Ralph Wilson met with his top college talent evaluator Tuesday and an agreement was reached to have Modrak continue heading up the organization's college scouting efforts.
Modrak Staying With Buffalo
Buffalo Bills owner Ralph Wilson met with assistant general manager Tom Modrak today, and the two have agreed on a new deal that will keep Modrak with the football team.
Armchair Scout – Bills Draft Evaluation
Unlike last year, when the Bills kept their affinity for Donte Whitner very quiet, Buffalo's personnel department wasn't shy about expressing their glowing impressions of Lynch. I too was enamored with Lynch's abilities, but I wasn't convinced the Bills would take a running back in round one. Lynch however, proved to be too dynamic a player to pass on. He and Minnesota's Adrian Peterson are arguably the only legitimate three-down backs in this year's class.
Bills’ top picks ready to compete
Their lofty status comes with loftier expectations. Wilson made that clear during the news conference when he said of Lynch and Posluszny, “We feel they are going to come in and start right away for the team.” The players are ready to live up to Wilson’s statement. “We are very excited about it, especially with the opportunity that we have,” Posluszny said. “We know that nothing is going to be given. We are going to have to earn it through hard work and practice. We are definitely looking forward to it.”
AFC powers muscle up
New England, of course, made the biggest splash by acquiring Randy Moss for only a fourthround pick. He joins a revamped receiving corps that includes free agents Donte Stallworth and Wes Welker. They also got an instant starter in the first round with safety Brandon Meriweather, who can also play nickel corner. Character is a question mark for both Moss and Meriweather — especially Moss. The Pats don’t seem to care.
Bills Sign Four More
The Bills now have a total of 16 rookies either drafted or signed after inking four more undrafted free agents to deals, according to various sources from around the country. Aaron Brown, Corey Davis, Thaddeus Washington and Corey Mace will all have a chance to further impress the Bills brass, according to the reports.
Bills' Losman shouldn't fear Edwards...yet
For now, the No. 1 job rests with the 6-foot-2, 217-pound Losman, a three-year veteran. However, during this summer's training camp and preseason, Edwards will begin his ascension up Buffalo's depth chart -- and he'll start by trying to pass veteran backup Craig Nall, whom the Bills signed to a multiyear contract last offseason. "We just like the competition behind him [Losman] for the Nos. 2 and 3 spots," Bills head coach Dick Jauron said. "We need that depth."
