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June 30, 2007

Say goodbye to NFL Europa

After 16 years in Europe, the NFL shut down its developmental league with Commissioner Roger Goodell saying it was strictly a business decision. “A foundation of American football fans in key European markets has been created and the time is right to shift our strategy,” Goodell said. “The next phase of our international growth is to focus on initiatives with global impact, including taking advantage of developing technologies that make the NFL more accessible on a global scale and ensuring the success of our new international series of regular-season games.”

June 29, 2007

Jim Kelly Football Camp Up And Running

As Bills Hall of Fame quarterback came huffing off the field after a spirited scrimmage with 22 of his campers, Jim Kelly wiped the sweat from his brow and took a moment to catch his breath. "You get out there and you don't expect to get caught up in it, but these kids are pretty competitive and before you know it you're into the game," said Kelly. Before Kelly knew it his football camp also put two decades of instruction and lessons about the game into the minds of thousands of young campers.

Bills Sign Three NFL Europa Free Agents

The Buffalo Bills added three NFL Europa free agents to their roster Friday signing two wide receivers and a defensive back. Wide receiver Felton Huggins (6'2" 186) who played for Frankfurt this spring is a former undrafted free agent of the Jacksonville Jaguars who didn't make it out of their 2006 training camp.

Bills Sign 3 Players From Folded NFL Europe

The Bills have signed 3 players from NFL Europe. Cornerback Chris Thompson and Receivers Justin Jenkins and Felton Huggins.

Jacobs 'might' be interested if Bills were for sale

Like the few other individuals who have roots in Western New York and the financial means to buy a National Football League franchise, he's hesitant to talk about it. In fact, in a 45-minute interview with Business First, the question and the answer consumed only a minute or two: If the Buffalo Bills were for sale, would you be interested in buying the team? The answer is worth noting. The reply from Jacobs, the billionaire chairman of Buffalo-based Delaware North Cos., was affirmative. "It would be something I might be interested in," Jacobs said. "I think it is a great product."

#19: Who Will Be The Backup Quarterback?

Bills quarterback J.P. Losman staked a firm claim to the starting job in the second half of last season. Thankfully the 'Camp QB' label that Buffalo's 2006 training camp had will not dominate the headlines this summer. However, there is the potential for a stiff competition for the backup job, if Trent Edwards can live up to the very favorable reviews of his abilities.

Kelly celebrates his 20th year of teaching

This is the 20th year of camp for Kelly. Over those years he’s watched such notable players as St. Louis Rams quarterback Marc Bulger, Washington Redskins cornerback Shawn Springs and former NFL free safety Anthony Dorsett pass through as students. This year Kelly can add another NFL name to that list in Orchard Park native Jon Corto, who recently signed a rookie free agent contract with the Bills.

After solid '06, what can Bills' Losman do for an encore?

The best news for Bills fans is that Losman looked terrific during the team's organized team activities and minicamp during the spring. The 6-foot-2, 217-pounder found his receivers with pinpoint accuracy (particularly stud No. 1 wideout Lee Evans and slot man Josh Reed), barely allowing any passes to even touch the ground. If that progress continues into September and beyond, there's no reason to believe the ex-Tulane star won't cement his place as one of the game's most dependable starting QBs in '07.

June 28, 2007

Registration open for Hansen camp

The camp is for linemen entering freshmen through senior years in high school. Phil Hansen, an Oakes, N.D., native who played 11 years in the NFL with the Buffalo Bills, will provide instruction at the camp.

Darius would be a tough fit for Buffalo

But inking Darius would reek of former Bills General Manager Tom Donahoe; it's the sort of big-splash free-agent move with no real impact for which the erstwhile GM was renowned. It's reminiscent of the signing of Lawyer Milloy, where a safety who's both a solid player and human being wasn't able to live up to his fantastic football past for whatever reasons in Buffalo.

June 27, 2007

Where Are They Now: Robert Coons

Life after football has been good to Robert Coons. The former Buffalo Bills tight end ('95-'97) is married to his college sweetheart, has three beautiful daughters, and just added a new title to his job of firefighter. After months of intense classwork and training, Robert recently passed the national paramedic exam and is now an official firefighter/paramedic for the city of Torrance, California.

Bills QB Corps Solid Despite Being Green

JP Losman went from a passer rating of 64.9 in 2005 to 84.9 in 2006 along with a host of other improvements including completion percentage and touchdown to interception ratio. Time on the field proved to be the biggest aid to his development.

Simple works best for Bills' defense

Instead of loading down players with trickery aimed at causing confusion, defensive coordinator Perry Fewell is operating under the premise that cute gimmicks are mostly going to confuse his own players. It's not a slight at them but rather a realization that players, as with most jobs involving competently talented people, are at their best when they are given a simple task and then left to their own devices to accomplish said task.

June 26, 2007

Darius Visits Orchard Park

Veteran safety Donovin Darius visited with the Bills today. In a surprise move by Jacksonville, Darius was released on June 14th. He led the Jaguars' secondary in tackles each of his first seven seasons before missing 14 games in 2005 with a torn ACL.

Bills Host Free Agent Vet Donovin Darius

The Bills are still looking to add to their talent pool before the 2007 season begins. Buffalo hosted veteran safety Donovin Darius Tuesday at One Bills Drive. The 10-year veteran has twice been a Pro Bowl alternate and a starter at safety since the Jacksonville Jaguars made him one of the club's two first-round picks in 1998.

Undrafteds In Depth: Gaddis Biding His Time

However, with the Bills Christian Gaddis is once again the young player looking up to the veterans for help. Six-year veteran Melvin Fowler has taken Gaddis under his wing in helping learn the center position at the NFL level. "Anytime I have a question I can go to Melvin and he'll give me the answer to the best of his knowledge," said Gaddis.

Tasker Lends April A Special Teams Hand

If there is anyone that could help propel the Bills special teams from third overall in 2006 to first overall in 2007 it would be former special teams standout Steve Tasker.

Would newly released Tank be worth Buffalo's trouble?

It took a while, but the Chicago Bears finally released troubled defensive tackle Tank Johnson on Monday. A few weeks ago, the 26-year-old was suspended by NFL commissioner Roger Goodell for the first eight games of the 2007 season because of past issues with the law, including gun charges and resisting arrest.

Breaking down holdouts on horizon

In the next five weeks leading up to the open of NFL training camps, we're going to hear more and more threats from players saying they won't be reporting to camp, including many cries to local media about new contracts

June 25, 2007

Marshawn Lynch: A Breakdown

The Wysman decided to take a look at how Lynch might fare with the Bills this season. So offensive game tapes were reviewed in the two games that California played vs. the two toughest run defenses on their schedule. After all, the NFL is laden with the best, so that’s the place to begin looking for performance and what it means, not in the litany of games vs. the scrub teams and opponents’ units that get run over by most opponents. So what were the Wysman’s observations on Lynch?

Change in a snap

Leonard Stevens is a security guard who's been thinking about a career change ... Stevens would like to become a Buffalo Bill. On the morning of Friday, June 15, Stevens, a lifelong Bills fan, "interviewed" for a position as the team's long-snapper, the center who fires the ball back to the punter or holder for placekicks.

Bills' current playoff drought isn't unique

So, both younger and older fans with poor memories should bear in mind that the Bills have faced long playoff famines before, although none took place during the salary-cap era when the system is allegedly jury-rigged to allow a quick turnaround from misery. That said, the positive news is that things are looking up.

June 24, 2007

Pacman surrenders then posts bail

His distinctive dreadlocks gone, Adam “Pacman” Jones posted bail, walked out of jail early Friday and headed home to Nashville, Tenn.,leaving his lawyers to again sort out the legal entanglements of the suspended NFL player.

Tuten charged

Former Buffalo Bills punter Rick Tuten was arrested for buying stolen goods and reselling the merchandise for a profit.

Goodell shares passion story

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell returned to his roots Friday.

Goodell gave the commencement address at Maple Grove High School in Bemus Point, near Jamestown.

Parrish fights to change his image

There was a running joke in the Buffalo Bills media room during April’s NFL Draft. It centered on the Miami Dolphins’ selection of Ohio State receiver Ted Ginn Jr. with the ninth overall pick.

“The Dolphins just drafted Roscoe Parrish,” the joke went.

Signing off to sound off

Dave Moore recently retired after 15 seasons in the NFL, including a franchise-record 13 with the Bucs. He played tight end, fullback, halfback and every specials teams position imaginable, including long snapper.

June 22, 2007

A Royal Responsibility

Robert Royal is informed of the changes by the Players Association and then it's his job to deliver that information to his teammates. It sounds easy, but with players' time dominated by their playbooks, film study, practice and weight room work they're not exactly interested in actually reading the latest NFLPA notice left on their locker room stool.

Jim Kelly Football Camp Celebrates 20th Year

The Jim Kelly Football Camp presented by McDonald’s will feature two camps in 2007, the 20th year since the camp’s inception. The ‘Red’ Camp will be held June 27-30 and the ‘Blue’ Camp on July 16-19. Both camps will be held at the Ralph Wilson Stadium facilities. “It’s been 20 great years at camp.” Kelly said. “We’ve had guys come through this Camp like Anthony Dorsett, Shawn Springs, Marc Bulger, and now Orchard Park’s very own Jon Corto.

Bills scoreboard right on schedule

The Buffalo Bills are halfway done installing a cutting-edge scoreboard that will display game highlights in high definition.

Toronto will act fast, aggressively if Bills are put on auction block

And now, a word from the grim reaper.

It's not so often that he gets directly involved in a sports story — though, of course, he gets involved in everything, eventually, when all is said and done. But earlier this week, the long-running saga of the National Football League and its possible future in Canada steered directly into the path of the good old angel of death.

Bills will look bad if Spikes succeeds in new setting

There are two ways the 30-year-old Spikes can go at this juncture of his career: He can either follow the path of Seattle's Julian Peterson, a former Pro Bowl LB who has recovered very well from a past Achilles injury, or free agent LaVar Arrington, a once-fierce 'backer whose '06 Achilles tear and recent motorcycle crash point to early retirement. If Spikes mimics Peterson, Bills General Manager Marv Levy better prepare himself for even further second-guessing from both media and fans.

June 21, 2007

High Definition Scoreboard Installed

The idea is to have the scoreboard online by August 1st. However, some taxpayers may be wondering whether this is a good investment of taxpayers' dollars considering this team may not be around for a lot longer. The scoreboard carries a price tag of 5.5 million dollars. Thomas Loughran (D-Erie County legislator) said, "Under the lease agreement with the Buffalo Bills, we are obligated to provide these funds."

Bills Scoreboard Coming Along

Undrafteds In Depth: Mace A Coveted CFL Commodity

One thing that makes Mace stand out is that he can play every spot on the defensive line. He has had time in the 4-3 and the 3-4 and is comfortable at any spot. Mace has seen time at each position but a great deal at three technique, the spot on the line where he is most comfortable. "It is something I have been doing my whole college career," said Mace of playing different positions. "I feel more comfortable at three technique with my weight. But I have played through the line my whole college career."

Stalled talks mean Bills may send Walker back to Philly

From Philadelphia to Buffalo and potentially back again: Defensive tackle Darwin Walker is prepared for anything — even becoming a free agent in August — after contract talks with the Bills reached an impasse Wednesday.

"Whether we're done talking, I don't want to go that far," Walker's agent, Albert Irby, told The Associated Press after talks broke down. "I've got to hope they change their mind, because I can tell you we're not changing ours."

And that could mean Walker's tenure with the Bills might be a short one in what is quickly becoming one of the team's most convoluted acquisitions.

Can Losman break out as a fantasy QB?

Quarterback is a deep position and Losman has not shown he can execute consistently and rack up enough points with his arm -- or legs, for that matter. Even though mobility is one of his best attributes, he scored just once last year. What the QB does have going for him is Evans. Based on that, he makes a shrewder selection than retread vets like Steve McNair, Jeff Garcia or Trent Green, but he still should be nothing more than a clipboard holder for your fantasy team.

Selection of Edwards still questionable for Bills

Edwards was selected 92nd overall, and it's not as if there weren't players available the Bills could have actually used this season with that spot: They could have chosen a defensive tackle and prevented lots of run prevention-related hyperventilating. For example, just a bit later with the 97th and 98th choices, respectively, San Francisco drafted Ray McDonald out of Florida, while the Colts picked up Ohio State's Quinn Pitcock. McDonald was scouted as an explosive player in a keg's frame, while Pitcock has been billed as a high-energy competitor who gives the clichéd 110 percent every moment the ball is in play.

June 20, 2007

Webster Gives Bills Secondary A Boost

When head coach Dick Jauron was asked by Buffalobills.com if he got what he expected out of Webster after the cornerback arrived for spring practices his answer was brief. "Probably more," said Jauron. "Jason gives us some real strength back in the secondary," said defensive backs coach George Catavolos.

Wilson’s Statements Clear Air and Cast Cloud

Bills team owner Ralph Wilson recently made several things unmistakably clear. Whether intentional or not, Wilson more or less linked his passing, whenever that might be, with the end of the Bills era in Buffalo. While it may be somewhat gosh to formally link the two events, it is what it is. So how does this impact fans' hopes for this team?

Let’s wish for long life for Ralph

I don’t begrudge Wilson for selling the team after his death. It’s his right. Besides, he doesn’t want to put the burden of running the franchise on his family. Wilson has opened himself up for criticism by not selling part of the team now. That way, at least someone will be in place when Wilson is gone. But any new co-owner is going to want to have a say in the operation of the franchise. Wilson, who prefers having absolute power, would never go for that.

Bills hope red doesn't mean stop anymore

Also notable is the fact the Bills' starting running back doesn't think he's so great that there's no need to go out and prove it. Physically, rookie first-round pick Marshawn Lynch brings elusiveness and pass-catching ability as weapons in the arsenal, but more importantly he's shown no signs of carrying the baggage of arrogance that his predecessor, Willis McGahee, did.

June 19, 2007

Walker Not Walking

By not showing up to Buffalo's mandatory minicamp, Walker could be in breach of the contract he signed in 2002. Walker could owe the Bills $1.4 million. Of course, if he reverts back to the Eagles he would not owe the money unless he doesn't show up for camp. He can't be responsible for missing the Eagles minicamp because he wasn't their property at the time. If the Bills trade Walker to another team, then Walker would not be at risk of losing the $1.4 million for the same reason, unless he decided not to show up for training camp.

Bills Team Report

The offense went heavy on pass plays during the organized team activities and minicamp. While the Bills will place a heavy emphasis on the running game, the lopsided play calls are an indication that they are looking to be more aggressive on offense in 2007. Offensive coordinator Steve Fairchild used a number of multiple wide receiver formations and had the quarterbacks looking to make throws down the field. There were also several instances where the running back was split out wide and the tight ends were featured a lot, particularly in the red zone. Fairchild wants an offense that can spread opponents out and make them defend the entire field.

Undrafteds In Depth: Jackson Trades In Bat

Although chris Jackson handled all three kicking responsibilities with LSU he has mainly been kicking off and punting with the Bills. Working with the Bills all-time field goal accuracy leader and a back-to-back Pro Bowl punter is not something that is wasted on Jackson. "Both have been real helpful," said Jackson of Rian Lindell and Brian Moorman.

Bills Physicians and Trainers Attend Concussion Summit

"The league has summoned the medical staffs to go," said Bills head athletic trainer Bud Carpenter. "Supposedly they're going to present the pros and cons of what all these so-called outside experts are talking about. I think you're going to see a comparison of that with what the thoughts are from the people on the NFL committee. I think there are some false ideas by the people that are on the NFL committee because it's not just NFL physicians and athletic trainers. Half of the panel is made up of outside research people."

Early Look At The AFC East

Most of the talk around the Buffalo Bills has been centered around all the veterans they let go, but Marv Levy is building an intriguing young core of talent on both sides of the ball. J.P. Losman has shown signs of developing into a solid quarterback.

Pre-Preseason Power Rankings

Its only June, but everyone wants to know where their team stands heading into the 2007 NFL season. Well, I am here to let you know how your team stacks up in comparison with all the other teams in The League. My list takes last season's performance, the draft, and all other off-season transactions into consideration.

Devices' inventors want to better equip players

Neither Dr. Gerald Maher, team dentist for the New England Patriots, nor Bert Straus, an industrial design engineer in Baltimore, will attend the NFL's concussion conference in Chicago today. But what they have to offer may be relevant to the continuing debate over concussions.

Bills' owner sets tone for murky future

As far as Wilson goes, it's hard not to wonder why he's so rigid on his policy not to explore selling the Bills to someone from the Western New York area soon. "That's absolutely out," he said. The question is, Why is it "out"? After Wilson has spent so many years at the helm of the Bills (he bought the team in 1960 for $25,000 and was one of the AFL's original owners), it's odd that he wouldn't explore every avenue to keep Buffalo's pro football team intact for the future. Truthfully, to not do so would seem foolish.

June 18, 2007

Parrish: I’m A Receiver First

When one thinks of Bills wideout Roscoe Parrish, what often comes to mind is his electrifying 82-yard punt return that turned the tide in Buffalo's upset of the Jacksonville Jaguars last season. And while Parrish is proud of that effort, the diminutive receiver would prefer to be recognized differently.

Fairchild’s Living in the Past Will Cost Bills

The point of the piece is to contrast the methodology which is forming, and which is looking an awful lot like the Rams’ way of doing business offensively, as well as to reconcile that methodology, or system if you will, with the talent that the Bills have and whether or not things match up in that way or not. This then therefore would either validate the offensive direction of this team or conversely raise some questions regarding the same.

Buffalo's fans have five-plus weeks to kill until camp

If you like looking forward to being able to look forward to something, the training camp schedule release is for you. It's a testament to the ferocious devotion of Buffalo Bills fans that they calculate the days until real practices begin, which then begins the countdown until actual, genuine, live games seemingly about an eon from now.

June 17, 2007

LB Puz thrills Buffalo

A potential rookie starter, he’s already a hit with fans, who’ve made jersey top item at Bills’ online store

Walker a No-Show at Bills Camp

ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. - The Buffalo Bills are prepared to move on without Darwin Walker after they couldn't agree on a new contract with the veteran defensive tackle before the start of a mandatory minicamp Monday.

LB Puz thrills Buffalo

If sales are any indication, Posluszny is going to have to get used to this sort of thing – his new No. 51 Buffalo jersey is already the highest selling product of any kind on the Bills’ online store. The whole thing is still a little weird for him. “Yeah, yeah, it really is,” Posluszny said with an almost embarrassed laugh when told about the popularity of his uniform.

Hunter’s Hope Fund-Raiser Marks 10 Years

"This is the 10th anniversary and (Carlett) has done such an unbelievable job," Kelly said. "I had to be here for this." Hitting the road to enhance awareness of Krabbe Disease and other leukodystrophies, as well as to increase the likelihood of early detection and treatment, has been Kelly’s mission. He and Jill will meet with NFL commissioner and Jamestown native Roger Goodell on Friday in New York to discuss the league teaming up with Hunter’s Hope Foundation to encourage the enhancement of newborn screening.

Ralph Wilson says he won’t hand off the Buffalo Bills

Fans sometimes wonder if Wilson could stipulate that his estate give a prospective buyer from Western New York a “hometown discount.” This is not a realistic option. By law, the estate would have to pay a tax equal to 45 percent of the market value of the franchise, regardless of the sale price. Furthermore, such a move could face the prospect of a court challenge by one of Wilson’s beneficiaries. Wilson says he has known for a long time it’s not an option. “We’ve gone all through that; we’ve looked into it,” Wilson said. Also out of the question, according to Wilson, is the prospect of selling part of the team to a Western New Yorker while he’s still alive in order to perhaps give that person an advantage in eventually taking over the club. “That’s absolutely out,” he said.

Whitner and Simpson hope to be cornerstones

Whitner — the Bills’ 2006 first-round pick — and Simpson, a fourth-rounder that same year, have spent most of the spring in Orchard Park, working out and attending organized team activities. That time spent together — both on and off the field — has created a strong chemistry between the two. “It’s made us very close,” Whitner said. “We go through the same things. If he has a question, he comes to me. If I have a question, I go to him.”

The original owner of the Buffalo Bills isn't selling in his lifetime

The first and only owner of the Buffalo Bills has no plans to sell the team in his lifetime. Ralph Wilson told The Buffalo News that the team will be sold after he dies and that he does not plan to leave the Bills to his wife, Mary.

June 16, 2007

Bills Interested in Safety Donovin Darius?

According to Adam Schefter of NFL Network (TV), the Buffalo Bills are interested in recently released safety Donovin Darius (Jacksonville). However, Schefter failed to indicate whether or not the Bills would actually make a run at Darius or if they were just browsing.

Bills eager to hit summer home

PITTSFORD — The Buffalo Bills will spend four weeks in their critically important home away from home — Greater Rochester — when their training camp returns to St. John Fisher College this summer.

The Bills will open their eighth year of training camp in suburban Rochester on Thursday, July 26. They will hold practices for 21 days at St. John Fisher before breaking camp and heading back to Orchard Park on Aug. 22.

Jauron upbeat on Buffalo's future

Dick Jauron took the shortcut through the Buffalo Bills media room when he happened upon a couple of reporters completing their day’s work.

Clapping his hands, the Bills coach smiled and said, “Writing positive stories, I hope.”

Adam Tanalski Invited To Work Out With Bills

Adam Tanalski (Bellrose Village, NY/St. Francis Prep/Nassau CC), who walked on to the UB football team prior to the 2005 season, has been invited to work out for the Buffalo Bills on June 15 in hopes of securing a free agent contract with the team.

June 15, 2007

Undrafteds in Depth: Davis Likes To Mash

No team can have a successful running game without a powerful offensive line. James Madison University averaged 200 yards rushing per game each of the last three seasons because they had a powerful line. The anchor of that line was 6'3" 326 pound Corey Davis.

Youth Football Stadium Opens With NFL Flag Football Games

On Saturday, June 16, the Buffalo Bills Youth Football Stadium will play host to Buffalo Bills NFL FLAG games for the Town of Orchard Park Recreation. The games will start at 10:00 AM and end by 3:00 PM. Over 100 kids from Orchard Park and surrounding areas will get the opportunity to play each other throughout the day for their final game of the Bills NFL FLAG Spring Season.

2007 Buffalo Bills Anthem Finalists

The Bills would like to thank all those who submitted applications for the 2007 Anthem Auditions. There were many tough choices as we choose our finalists...The live audition will take place at Ralph Wilson Stadium, One Bills Drive, Orchard Park, NY on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 at 4:00 pm.

Can Langston Walker live up to big-money hype in Buffalo?

When the Buffalo Bills signed free-agent offensive lineman Langston Walker to a five-year, $25 million contract in March, many were wondering what the team was thinking. After all, Walker emerged as a whipping boy among Raider Nation on Oakland's offensive line last year, surrendering a team-worst 10.75 sacks in 16 starts.

June 14, 2007

Cox, Posluszny Named Penn State Athletes of the Year

Current Buffalo Bill linebacker Paul Posluszny’s honor as the Penn State Male Athlete of the Year is his second consecutive. A two-time first team All-American, Posluszny became just the second two-time winner of the Chuck Bednarik Award, presented by the Maxwell Football Club to the nation’s top defensive player.

Verizon Wireless takes title to Bills' camp

The Buffalo Bills have a new title sponsor for the football team's summer training camp. Verizon Wireless Inc. has expanded its marketing pact with the Bills and will have its name attached to the four-week session held at St. John Fisher College in Rochester.

Bills offence shows progress

Buffalo's Steve Fairchild is no different from most NFL offensive coordinators. He can brood and worry with the best of them.

Bills to open training camp July 26

The Buffalo Bills have announced the schedule for the 2007 Verizon Wireless training camp at St. John Fisher College.

Crowell assumes title of Bills senior linebacker

No need to remind linebacker Angelo Crowell how quickly his role and responsibilities have increased in the Buffalo defense.

Verizon Wireless Named Title Sponsor of Training Camp

"We’re very excited to be the title sponsor of the 2007 Verizon Wireless Training Camp," said Marquett Smith, president of Verizon Wireless’ Upstate New York Region. "The Bills camp is recognized as one of the premier fan experiences in the NFL and is one of the biggest events to hit the Rochester area every summer."

Verizon will sponsor Bills' training camp

The Buffalo Bills announced today that Verizon Wireless will be its new title sponsor for its training camp at St. John Fisher College, taking the place of Bausch & Lomb. “We’re very excited about today’s announcement that Verizon Wireless will be the title sponsor for Bills’ training camp,” said Scott Berchtold, vice-president of media relations for the Bills.

Seven Night Practices Highlight Bills Camp Schedule

The 2007 Buffalo Bills Verizon Wireless training camp kicks off next month on July 26 as the club spends its eighth summer at the St. John Fisher campus in Pittsford with 24 total practices open to the public. The team will be busy early with the first three days of camp all double sessions though none of the first six practices will be in full pads.

Bills Personnel Staff Leaving No Stone Unturned

When you think of a Pro Bowl football player you may assume that player was a highly touted draft pick who went in the top ten of the first round. However, Bills punter Brian Moorman came via a free agent workout, much like the one held Thursday at the Bills Fieldhouse. Since 2001 the Bills have invited unclaimed players from their draft board to stockpile a list in case of an injury or even to fill a need at a certain position.

Tentative Schedule For Bills Training Camp

Thursday, July 26 8:30 – 10:20 am; 2:15-4:05 pm
Friday, July 27 8:30 – 10:20 am; 2:15-4:05 pm
Saturday, July 28 8:30 – 10:20 am; 2:15-4:05 pm
Monday, July 30 11:00 am – 1:05 pm
Tuesday, July 31 7:00 – 9:05 pm*
Wednesday, August 1 1:00 – 3:05 pm
Thursday, August 2 7:00 – 9:05 pm*
Friday, August 3 2:15 – 4:25 pm
Saturday, August 4 1:00 – 3:05 pm
Monday, August 6 7:00 – 9:05 pm*
Tuesday, August 7 1:00 – 3:05 pm
Wednesday, August 8 7:00 – 9:05 pm*
Sunday, August 12 3:15 – 4:45 pm
Monday, August 13 7:00 – 9:05 pm*
Tuesday, August 14 1:00 – 3:05 pm
Wednesday, August 15 7:00 – 9:05 pm*
Thursday, August 16 11:00 am – 12:45 pm
Sunday, August 19 3:15 – 4:45 pm
Monday, August 20 7:00 – 9:05 pm*
Tuesday, August 21 2:15 – 4:25 pm
Wednesday, August 22 11:00 am – 12:30 pm

Bills’ workouts get June bugs out

The Bills’ offense is way ahead of where it was last year at this time, and hopes are high the attack might actually be fun to watch this year. “There’s progress,” said Bills offensive coordinator Steve Fairchild. “We’re not there, but we’re getting better. We’re just able to start farther along than last year. Guys are more familiar, but we’ve still got a long ways to go.

Bills put themselves on defensive

The Bills finished their three-day minicamp Wednesday without seeing defensive lineman Darwin Walker, who has declined to report until his contract is renegotiated despite its two remaining years. It’s not that the Bills are in desperate need of Walker, who was on the outs with the Philadelphia Eagles, although there’s always strength in numbers. It’s more that unless the Bills get Walker in the fold they’d have nothing other than later-round drafts picks to show for the trade that sent linebacker Takeo Spikes and back-up quarterback Kelly Holcomb to the Eagles.

McCargo getting healthier

“I do believe he will be [ready],” Jauron said. “He’s at least on schedule. I’m not certain that I will have him on the field all the time [at the start of camp]. I’ll just have to see how I feel about that because we’re counting on John. We think he’s going to be an outstanding player. But we’ll be cautious. I know he’s at least on pace [to be cleared].”

Bills coach exudes optimism

If there is anything coach Dick Jauron culled from the past four weeks of watching his Buffalo Bills run around in practice without pads on, it's that he thinks his team is going to be better in 2007 than it was in 2006.

Who is Ah You? He's the newest Bill

C.J. Ah You already has the best name of a Buffalo Bills player since Elbert Dubenion, one that will look cool on the back of a jersey, but he has to make the squad first. Ah You is for now officially a Bill, having signed a contract this week, and if you didn't watch the draft until its brutal end, he was the team's final selection.

June 13, 2007

Two Raptors Earn NFL Tryout

The Rock River Raptors of the United Indoor Football (UIF) League have announced today that two of their players, WR Lawrence Bady and DE Ricky Miller, have been invited to a tryout with the Buffalo Bills of the National Football League (NFL). Lawrence Bady of Boise State leads the team in receiving yards with 886 on the season and also leads the league total receptions with 77.

D-9 baseball, Palmquist 'n Bills' Walker

Conspiracy theorists are having a ball with the scenario that Buffalo can return Walker to the Eagles, if he doesn't report by Aug. 5. That would mean Philadelphia had to give the Bills a sixth round draft choice and, in effect, that would be what Philly gave up to acquire Buffalo outside linebacker Takeo Spikes. But do you really think the Eagles want back a guy they already traded, in part to avoid a renegotiated contract?

Minicamp Notes: Day 3

The first series of 11-on-11 was again operating in no huddle mode. Marshawn Lynch got all the first team reps as Anthony Thomas was limited in practice. There appeared to be a concerted effort the last week of workouts to get an extended look at the younger players at certain positions like running back. Lynch had three runs and a reception during the first unit's series. When the second unit came out it quickly turned into the Dwayne Wright show. After a reception by Brad Cieslak from Craig Nall, Wright got three straight runs, then had two receptions after that before finishing the series with another run.

Walker likely headed back to Philly

Buffalo general manager Marv Levy admitted the one concession his team is willing to make to Walker is to lop off the last year of the two years the defensive tackle has remaining on his contract. But Levy also said the Bills would not renegotiate Walker's contract before he comes in and plays for the team. The Bills believe this is an extremely fair offer on their part.

Tracking the Bills Movements This Offseason

So what has exactly transpired this offseason for the Bills? Players come, players go, there is all kinds of talk and hoopla. Talk is cheap obviously and cheapens with each passing season at One Bills Drive. In fact it has become an "in one ear and out the other" dull hum now for fans that at least partially masks any significant changes. But let’s take a look at the differences in this team from last season to this one as that will likely shed some insight on exactly what fans can expect this season.

Bills LB DiGiorgio makes case to start

Although John DiGiorgio has gotten all the snaps with the first-team defense during the three weeks of organized team activities and the Bills’ ongoing three-day minicamp, the popular belief is he’s merely keeping the seat warm until Posluszny is ready to take over. But DiGiorgio believes he’s got as good a chance to claim the starting middle linebacker job as Posluszny does. “I think my chances are pretty good as long as I’m doing the right things, I’m making the right calls, getting everybody lined up and just going out there and making plays,” DiGiorgio said Tuesday.

Bills' Everett needs to emerge

Everett's rookie season ended approximately, oh, 11 or 12 seconds into it, as he tore his ACL almost as early as possible during initial workouts in one of his very first activities as a Bill. As frustrating as that was for a team that was hoping to have a new receiving weapon in the mix, it was likely even more exasperating for them to see him struggle in his first season on the field in 2006, as he wasn't able to stand out and be even faintly productive.

June 12, 2007

BILLS: Langston Walker looks to come up big

Buffalo Bills offensive line coach Jim McNally, a Kenmore West High School graduate, doesn’t believe the Raiders’ struggles can be pinned on Walker. “He was not part of the problem, period,” McNally said. Walker was selected in the second round of the 2002 NFL Draft by the Raiders. He grew up in the Oakland area and attended California, so picking up and moving across the country wasn’t easy. Still, the Bills made their plan known from the start of free agency. “The Bills made it clear they thought I was doing a pretty good job,” Walker said. “They put their mind to it to go ahead and take me off the market, so here I am.”

Minicamp Notes: Day 2

Roscoe Parrish, who has had a solid spring was getting a little annoyed… with himself. It is a rare occurrence when Parrish drops a catchable ball, but Parrish dropped two in a short span of time Tuesday....I don't like dropping any pass that is thrown to me," he said. "It bothers me. I want to catch everything that comes my way every time." To his credit Parrish rebounded from his two early drops making several plays in the team portions of practice. His first catch was a third down reception that would have given the offense a first down.

Nall makes strides as No. 2 QB

Nall’s passing touch looks improved this spring, and he thinks a year of experience in the Bills’ system is going to make a big difference in his play when the Bills start training camp in six weeks. The Bills are banking on Nall being improved. Veteran Kelly Holcomb was traded away. Nall is the clear-cut No. 2 ahead of rookie Trent Edwards, and the Bills need Nall to look reliable in case starter J.P. Losman gets hurt.

Walker keeps promise to stay away from camp

“The final decision rests with him,” Bills General Manager Marv Levy said. “We’d like to have him. If he’s not going to be here, we’ll go on without him.” The team’s “hoping he’d be here, sure,” Levy said. “I’d have to say we’re disappointed he’s not, from a learning standpoint. The final decision on something of that nature rides with the player. If he’s not going to be here, the Buffalo Bills will go on.” Levy said talks continue with Walker’s agent.

Walker a no-show at Bills mini-camp

"We've made a proposal to eliminate the last year of his contract and he has two years to go," Levy said. "That is a fantastic concession. Let him come in and if he blows us away and he performs, then we'd do it (a new deal). But we need to see some performance from him before we do that. "So, right now, unless there's an acceptance of that as a tremendous concession on our part, I don't see him (here)."

Bills need to grow -- will it happen fast enough?

Buffalo Bills coach Dick Jauron firmly rejects the concept of rebuilding and the concessions it suggests. "I'm not a person who uses that word at all," says Jauron, entering his second year with the Bills. Jauron is to be applauded for his optimism, and it is understandable why a team in a small and difficult market would insist it's in a win-now mode.

Losman feeling comfortable in Bills' offense

What a difference a year makes. Bills minicamp opened Monday and Losman looked like a winner. His passes looked crisp and accurate. Receivers ran sharp routes and Losman hit them just as they separated from defenders. On Monday, he was particularly sharp in blitz drills. The ball rarely hit the ground. Receivers caught almost everything. "When you have one year under your belt, coming into your second year, you become more comfortable with the calls, where you need to go, what you need to do," Bills wide receiver Lee Evans said.

Bills should expect plenty from Whitner in Year 2

If Whitner fared so well in his inaugural year with Buffalo, one would think he'll be that much better in his second season. Another thing to consider is that the former collegiate All-American is now fully aware of his role in the Bills' Tampa 2 defensive scheme. He's been learning the system since last summer, and it's likely safe to say he -- thanks largely to D-coordinator Perry Fewell -- knows exactly what it entails.

June 11, 2007

Minicamp Minus One

We don't have any pictures of defensive tackle Darwin Walker in a Buffalo Bills uniform, because he's never actually been in one. Walker was picked up in a trade with Philadelphia for linebacker Takeo Spikes and is counted on to start. Walker is now officially a holdout.

Ah You First Pick To Sign

Defensive End C.J. Ah You is the first draft choice to sign with the club. Ah You was the second of the team's two seventh round picks.

Bills Sign Draft Pick Ah You

He was the last of Buffalo's draft picks back in late April, but in mid-June Bills defensive end C.J. Ah You is the first draft pick to sign with the club. After agreeing to terms over the weekend Buffalo's rookie defensive end signed his first NFL contract Monday with his parents Charles and Joyce proudly looking on. "I'm just excited and grateful for the opportunity that I have here," said Ah You. "Hopefully I can contribute to the team, work real hard and get in there somehow."

Walker Absent

As expected, DT Darwin Walker was the only player missing from the first day of mini camp. General Manager Marv Levy says the club has told Walker's agent that they have the option of fining him. Levy says he will not announce if Walker gets fined. Levy says negotiations are on going between Walker's agent Albert Irby and Bills Vice President of Football Administration Jim Overdorf.

DT Walker no-show at Bills camp

The Buffalo Bills are prepared to move on without Darwin Walker after they couldn't agree on a new contract with the veteran defensive tackle before the start of a mandatory minicamp Monday. Talks continue, but general manager Marv Levy said the ultimate decision to report to the team rests with Walker, who is under contract, and has been advised he's subject to being fined. We'd like to have him," Levy said. "But if he's not going to be here, we'll go on without him. That's all it amounts to."

Minicamp Notes: Day 1

Losman was working the hard count well on Monday. He drew a couple of defensive linemen offsides with his cadence. Defensively there were a couple of stuffed runs with Coy Wire and Anthony Hargrove making some good reads. John DiGiorgio effectively flew to the football on a pass over the middle to Shaud Williams. He arrived so quickly that had it been live football there would have been a big time collision. The defense also had what would have been a tackle for loss on another run play.

Walker's a no-show at Bills mini-camp

"I was hoping he’d be here, sure,” said general manager Marv Levy. “I have to say we’re disappointed he’s not from a learning standpoint. But, as I say, the final decision of that nature rides with the player, and if he’s not here, the Buffalo Bills will go on.”

Walker absent from Bills minicamp

Defensive tackle Darwin Walker was absent as expected today as the Buffalo Bills began three days of mandatory minicamp workouts at their Ralph Wilson Stadium complex.

Levy: Ball Is In Walker’s Court

Bills general manager Marv Levy addressed the situation Monday saying the ball is in Walker's court. "The final decision rests with him," said Levy. "We'd like to have him, but if he's not going to be here we'll go on without him. That's all it amounts to." According to Levy discussions are ongoing with the Walker camp. "I had a long talk with his agent over the weekend and I had advised him too that contract talk will continue to be handled by Jim Overdorf," Levy said.

Lee Evans Poised for Monster Season; Could Set Team Records

Evans is arguably the best WR in the AFCE including the now 30-year old Randy Moss who hasn’t posted Evans’ ’06 yardage total since ’03. He is also in the running for being the league’s leading receiver for the ’07 season, there is no question about that.

Bills' linebackers must, and can, aid run defense

Everything that's been seen from rookie second-round pick Paul Posluszny indicates that he was born to track down the ball, as he's shown a sense for sniffing out plays faster than Fletcher ever did. Toss in Keith Ellison, who pleasantly displayed a propensity for stepping up and helping battle the run in limited time as a rookie, and the best thing that happened to the Bills' defensive tackles is that the guys lining up behind them got that much better.

June 10, 2007

Bad news for Bills in magazine

Of particular interest to the Bills is Pro Football Weekly's season preview ... but for the wrong reasons. Players and fans will find little reason for encouragement. In power ratings, Buffalo ranks 26th of 32 teams with the assessment: "off-season unkind as (Nate) Clements, (Willis) McGahee, (London) Fletcher and (Takeo) Spikes all departed." But the Bills fare even worse when it comes to winning this season's Super Bowl. At 60-1, Buffalo has the same odds as Atlanta with only Detroit (75-1), Houston and Cleveland (both 100-1) worse.

Secondary market key to tickets for the Bills and Sabres

Any Buffalo Bills fan eager to see the home team play against the Dallas Cowboys in the Monday Night Football game Oct. 8 will find a Sold Out sign when individual tickets go on sale July 14. It’s either buy a season ticket or be shut out of the Monday night shenanigans — unless that fan clicks on a ticket Web site, like StubHub, where 2,726 seats for that game were available late last week, or TicketCity, which listed 1,863 tickets.

Webster fights back

Webster finds himself in a Buffalo Bills uniform these days aiming to prove he can be counted upon to dress on Sundays. “I feel like I’m due,” Webster said after practice last week. “I’m looking forward to being out there the whole year. If Webster can stay healthy, the Bills may have gotten a steal when they signed him as a free agent May 21. Webster, a tough tackler with 73 NFL starts under his belt, just might be the best man the Bills have to replace departed cornerback Nate Clements.

BILLS: Ellison ready for more

Still, there were times Keith Ellison, by his own admission, was lost on the field. But with a full offseason to soak up the nuances of coordinator Perry Fewell’s version of the Tampa 2 defense, Ellison believes he’s ready for a larger role in 2007. “I’m light years ahead (of where he was last year),” he said. “From the first day I got here (for spring practices) I’ve felt so much more comfortable with the defense and what I’m supposed to do.”

June 09, 2007

Bills report: Strategy and personnel

Said coach Dick Jauron: "Let's face it, we need to score or we need to stop the opponents and we weren't particularly successful in that area a year ago. So it was kind of one of our areas of concentration for the spring and we will continue to spend time down there. It's got to happen on Sundays in the regular season but it certainly cannot hurt us, the time we're spending there and focusing on it and emphasizing it so that's why we've done it."

Bills report: Notes, quotes

The team will then break until late July when training camp opens at St. John Fisher College in Rochester, N.Y. "I love our team attitude," coach Dick Jauron said. "As we said all last year, they're a group of guys that are not afraid to work, they like to work, they appear to like each other, they work hard together and they want to be a good team. We just have to make ourselves a good football team and that involves winning games and that's hard to do in our business in general and in our division in particular."

Bills report: Inside slant

No huddle. Five wide receivers. Running backs split out wide. This is what happens even during off-season workouts when a group of players and coaches stay together awhile. Continuity hasn't been an asset associated with the Bills in quite some time, a factor that has contributed mightily to the team failing to make the playoffs for seven consecutive seasons.

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Jauron happy with work so far

“Every day has been a little better, and it works that way because they work hard at it,” coach Dick Jauron said after the workout on the grass field behind the team’s indoor practice facility. “They’ve made progress and we add a little more each day so we don’t lose the younger guys. We’re not trying to overwhelm them, but we are trying to keep veterans ready to go at the same time.”

Josh Stamer has bone to pick with dog fights

Stamer, a lifelong dog lover, is appalled that the illegal activity exists. While Stamer didn’t mention Vick by name, he condemns anyone involved with dog fighting. “I’m totally against it,” Stamer said Friday after the Bills’ concluded their third week of organized team activities. “It’s inhumane to put two aggressive animals in the ring and watch them fight to the death or until they are maimed. “Dogs are supposed to be pets and great friends to come home to. They shouldn’t be bred for violent reasons. I think anyone who involves themselves in that activity should be thrown in jail.”

June 08, 2007

Bills step up talks with DT Walker

Darwin Walker and the Buffalo Bills have increased talks to complete a restructured contract in time for the defensive tackle to attend the team's mandatory minicamp next week. "We've had dialogue and we're still hopeful," Walker's agent, Albert Irby, told The Associated Press on Friday. "We've got to be hopeful because Darwin wants to play there and sees it as a wonderful opportunity. He wants to be a Bill in the worst way."

Day 12 OTA Notes

Buffalo's top draft picks squared off a couple of times when the second string units went at each other. On one run play Lynch beat a run blitz call by the defense eluding two defenders. The next play however, Paul Posluszny caught Lynch in the backfield for what would have been a tackle for loss getting some assistance from George Wilson.

Bills question: Can Buffalo recover from the offseason?

The future of quarterback J.P. Losman used to be the biggest question in Buffalo. But with Losman emerging as a starter last season, now the concerns are all around him based on the veterans who are no longer in town. Calling the offseason "costly" would be literally inaccurate because it was other teams that were doing the spending in terms of money and draft picks to steal some of the Bills' best established players.

Hot dog! Sahlen's cuts deal with Bills

Sahlen's will now be the official hot dog company of the Buffalo Bills, bringing the product back into the hands and stomachs of hungry fans at Ralph Wilson Stadium. Financial terms of the sponsorship deal announced Friday were not disclosed. Hot dogs were available at the games, but fans have been requesting the Sahlen's brand in the stadium through the Bills' customer service department, said Peter Guelli, vice president for business development.

Sahlen's Becomes Top Dog At Ralph Wilson Stadium

“We listened to our fans,” said Vice President of Business Development Pete Guelli, “and we were able to partner with Sahlen’s to give them what they want – a quality hot dog from a great company. We are proud to, once again, be serving Sahlen’s hot dogs at Ralph Wilson Stadium. Developing this partnership with a company that has been dedicated to the Western New York community for over 125 years, is a win-win situation for our fans and the Buffalo Bills.”

Bills conclude voluntary workouts

The Buffalo Bills wrapped up the organized team activity portion of their offseason this afternoon with one final 90-minute practice on the grass field behind their indoor facility. Coach Dick Jauron said nothing will change next week when the mandatory three-day mini-camp begins Monday. “We’ll just pick up where we left off this week,” Jauron said.

Fairchild: Losman "To Turn Out Well"

Fairchild told the show that a trust grew with Losman in 2006, and that he expects the play book to open up more in 2007. "We held the reigns back on him in some of the third down stuff and in the red zone," he said. "I wasn't sure how I trusted him how I wanted to trust him last year. He kept getting better and better, but we're a long way from done. This is a work in progress. I really like his chances to be a very good quarterback."

Losman speaks at Press-Radio Club Dinner

Now that he's the incumbent starter, Losman is approaching the 2007 season with much more excitement. "We're trying to stay under the radar right now but we're very, very confident," Losman said. The fourth-year veteran said the confidence comes from already playing a full season in coach Dick Jauron's offense, "being able to be successful with some of the things we did, and the additions we made on the offensive line (Langston Walker, Derrick Dockery and Jason Whittle)."

Strong move pays off for Bills’ Wilson

“It’s all about showing the coaches you can do different things,” Wilson said. “I want to show that not only can I be a good receiver, but I can do some good things on the other side of the football.” What was viewed as an experiment may turn out to be a permanent move. Wilson has made quite an impression during the past two weeks of the Bills’ workouts. He has intercepted a couple of passes and shown steady improvement each practice.

It's Evans, then everyone else for Buffalo's offense

Buffalo has three wideouts behind Lee Evans right now -- Peerless Price, Josh Reed and Roscoe Parrish -- and none of them will strike fear into opposing defenses. Price had a decent 49 receptions last year but averaged just 8.2 yards per catch, and Reed was solid as a blocker, as usual, only hauling in 34 passes of his own. Parrish is more of a specialty target whose size (5-foot-9, 168 pounds) seems to prevent him from being a consistent threat.

June 07, 2007

Q&A With Marshawn Lynch

Q: Given Buffalo's running back situation, did you think they would select you?

A: When I went on my trip out there, they had told me that they had just traded Willis (McGahee) and that they were looking for a running back. There was a lot of talk with Adrian going before me. I kind of tried to put two and two together and it just seemed like a perfect fit.

Day 11 OTA Notes

Bills fourth-round pick Dwayne Wright has been sprinkled in to the offense a bit more of late and got a full workload early as he and the second team offense were given some extra snaps Thursday. They got the nod to start the 11-on-11 team work against the second string defense. In the seven play series Wright had five rushes and a reception. The other pass play was foiled by rookie free agent defensive tackle Corey Mace who batted down the Trent Edwards pass.

Bills' Wilson works on switch to defense

Jason Peters successfully made the move from tight end to offensive tackle. Coy Wire's transition from safety to linebacker was smooth. Now George Wilson is trying his hand at a new position. The veteran wide receiver is working at strong safety during the Bills offseason minicamps. The move is strictly experimental right now, but after some impressive workouts, the position switch could become permanent.

Undrafteds In Depth: Hooper Working For Opportunity

Edwards and Hooper are again teammates in Buffalo after five years together at Stanford. A four year starter, Hooper was a leader on and off the field for the Cardinal. Earning a starting job as a freshman he never gave up his role in the secondary, amassing 204 tackles, three sacks and four interceptions at Stanford. His senior campaign was best where he was second on the team in tackles with 91 and led the Cardinal in sacks with 2.5.

Royal sides with Upshaw in dispute

Robert Royal, the Bills’ union representative, said the criticism of Upshaw is out of bounds. “I’m for Gene,” Royal said Wednesday after a practice at Ralph Wilson Stadium. “I’m a part of the union and I stand by him 100 percent because I know the things that we have given back as active players to help the retired players out. “There are some things the retired players feel like we’re not doing as a union. It’s unfortunate, but hopefully we can smooth it out and move forward.”

Key to Bills' run defense? John McCargo's left foot

At just over 300 pounds, he's qualified to play nose tackle for the Bills, traditionally undersized but well-suited to the smaller, quicker players the Tampa 2 defensive scheme seeks. The problem is that last season those smaller and quicker defenders were pushed around by the bigger and slower opposing run blockers, which is why the Bills were 28th against the rush. As a strong, relatively large member of the Bills' defensive tackle corps, McCargo's recovery is crucial for a team that needs to learn how to scare opposing running backs and offensive coordinators from heading right up the middle.

June 06, 2007

Bills' Royal defends Upshaw

Contrary to the opinion of retired NFL players like former Buffalo Bills guard Joe DeLamielleure, Bills tight end and union representative Robert Royal believes Gene Upshaw is doing a fine job as executive director of the NFL Players Association.

Bills, Laidlaw renew sponsorship

The Buffalo Bills and Laidlaw Bus Company have extended their marketing pact, keeping Laidlaw as the football franchise's official transportation provider. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. The announcement came as the Bills said ticket sales for the 2007 National Football League season to groups would begin Saturday, June 9. Groups who purchase tickets and sign on to use Laidlaw buses receive 20 percent off the price of game day transportation.

Day 10 OTA Notes

The Bills ground attack took on a greater focus in the team portions of practice with an emphasis on the inside running game. Anthony Thomas and Marshawn Lynch saw the most action, with Lynch making some eye-popping cuts and decisions. On one off tackle play Lynch froze Ashton Youboty who was trying to hold the outside edge and got caught flat-footed. Lynch quickly darted inside and past the cornerback for what would have been a big gainer in a live football setting.

Group Ticket Sales Begins Saturday, June 9

The Bills Wednesday announced that group tickets will be available beginning Saturday, June 9 at 9:00 am for eight of the Bills’ 10 home dates....Groups of 15-or-more people are eligible to purchase individual game tickets beginning Saturday. Group leaders also receive special incentives, which increase with the size of the group, featuring Bills merchandise with their group ticket purchases.

Sneak Peek For Bills Club Seat Holders

But for those club seat holders that renewed early this past offseason there was an added perk. Called the club seat holder preview days, Bills fans that renewed their club seats early have had the opportunity to tour the facility at One Bills Drive, eat breakfast in the team cafeteria, watch a special video in the team's media room and watch practice during the OTA sessions to get a sneak peek at what the 2007 season holds in store.

Bills are Definitely Smaller on Defense, But are they Faster?

This past offseason’s changes have left the Bills young and diminutive across the board defensively. When perhaps the "beefiest" player, pound for pound, on the D is your strong safety, then something is wrong. Youth and inexperience are one thing. Lack of size and muscle is altogether another. Combined, and well, let’s just say it’s gonna be a tough row to hoe this autumn for the Bills’ D. As a close friend of mine exclaimed regarding a wedding he went to years ago, when he saw that there was a bowl of applesauce as the centerpiece on each table with a spoon in it, he knew it wasn’t going to be a class affair. So too, when Coy Wire is spoken of as a potential starter at OLB you know you are in trouble.

Thoughts on Bills' Tasker and Walker

The Bills knew the Eagles were talking renegotiation with Walker when the trade was made, thus the deal stipulates that if the player has not reported by Aug. 5, Buffalo can return him to Philly for a sixth round draft choice. There's some question whether the soon-to-be 30-year-old would want to return to a team that already traded him. But it could happen. That would leave the Bills with a sixth and seventh round draft choice for a former Pro Bowl linebacker and a veteran backup QB.

Polian heads latest class

These seven represented the 11 members of the 17th induction class for the Greater Buffalo Sports Hall of Fame, which was announced Tuesday at the Hyatt Regency Buffalo. The group will be inducted on to-be-determined day in October at HSBC Arena. Total membership will reach 192. Polian, architect of the Bills from 1988-1992, highlights a class that includes an NCAA basketball legend, a Bills inspirational leader and one of the Buffalo Sabres’ greatest playmaking defensemen.

Walker trade falling apart could work out for Bills

The new commotion regarding the old news of Walker's holdout is over the report that if Walker doesn't show up for training camp, he goes back to the Eagles, who in turn would have to send a sixth-round pick to the Bills. The net would then be Philadelphia getting Walker, Takeo Spikes and Kelly Holcomb, while Buffalo ends up with that pick plus the seventh-rounder it got in the initial transaction. That doesn't look good, but the positive perspective is that the Bills could end up freeing financial resources while removing extraneous guys.

June 05, 2007

Know Your Bills: Linebacker Josh Stamer

Buffalobills.com: What are your plans for the month between minicamp and training camp?

JS: I don't really have anything planned. I enjoy going home and relaxing there and spending time with my dogs. I'll just get my mind off things and study the playbook. That month is all about relaxing before the season starts up.

Day Nine OTA Notes

J.P. Losman was strong in the decision making department Tuesday. Buffalo's quarterback wasn't forcing passes downfield electing to check it down when it was warranted as the defense had some good coverage downs. His best play of the day was in the 7-on-7 red zone portion of team work. On the first play of his series Losman dropped back and looked off safety Ko Simpson enough to gun a pass over the middle to Roscoe Parrish who slipped behind Simpson on a post pattern for a touchdown.

Kelly event jogs memories, raises money

“Al Davis paraded his whole team through our warm-up lines,” the former Buffalo Bills star tackle recalled Monday at the Jim Kelly Celebrity Golf Tournament. “He came down the tunnel and walked right through us as we were lined up stretching. He led the charge. He brought about 25 ex-players, flew them all in for the game. And they walked right through our lines on our side of the field. You just don’t do that. There was [ex- Raiders] Otis Sistrunk and Ted Hendricks walking right through us, and Al Davis never looked down. “Being the home underdog against a team that cocky, to beat the hell out of them like we did, was nice,” Wolford said with a smile. “They got what they deserved.”

Buffalo's Losman, Evans to go deep even more in '07?

The bread and butter of the Buffalo Bills ' inconsistent offense in 2006 was its ability to stretch the field. Quarterback J.P. Losman hit wide receiver Lee Evans for big gains on nearly a weekly basis, and it enabled the 7-9 Bills, particularly in the second half of the season, to put some respectable point totals on the board and close the year on a 5-4 run. Of the 26-year-old Losman's 3,051 passing yards, a whopping 1,292 went to Evans.

June 04, 2007

Kelly tournament draws former NFL stars

About 20 former Buffalo Bills players and numerous other NFL stars gathered at Terry Hills Golf Club in Batavia today for the 21st annual Jim Kelly Celebrity Golf Tournament. Miami Dolphins Hall of Famer Dan Marino, Pittsburgh Steelers star Ben Roethlisberger, ESPN broadcaster Chris Berman and Cincinnati Bengals Hall of Famer Anthony Munoz were among the visiting celebrities playing. Thurman Thomas, Bruce Smith, Andre Reed, Kent Hull, Will Wolford, Steve Tasker, Phil Hansen and Frank Reich were among the former Bills playing.

Undrafteds In Depth: Cornelius Giving 100 Percent

But Cornelius now faces the challenge of earning a spot on the Bills roster next to receivers like Lee Evans and Peerless Price. One thing working in his favor is his ability to play any receiver position, as well as special teams. His versatility got him on the field in many situations at Florida, and it is something he hopes to use to his advantage in Buffalo. "It's easy to get on the field," said Cornelius of his versatility. "You have got to have versatility to make plays."

Bills Lack an Identity

Right now the Bills really have no identity and are desperately looking for one. The Ivy League Dynamic Duo promised an identity characterized by "disruptive" play defensively last season, but that promise was never nearly fulfilled. Nor did it come close to being fulfilled. In fact, the only thing was disrupted was the D itself getting routinely dominated by opponents’ offensive lines. Ditto for the offense which was supposed to do well also.


So while some outline or sketch should already be visible, this canvas is largely blank at the moment. There are a lot of eraser marks from last season with good ideas yet with an outline that began to form that was not so pleasing to the eye.

Thomas preparing for emotional day

Thurman Thomas sat down a few days ago with the intention of writing the Pro Football Hall of Fame acceptance speech he'll deliver in Canton, Ohio on Aug. 4. The most prolific rusher in Buffalo Bills history didn't get very far. Writer's block held him to a short gain. "It gets really emotional when you begin thinking about all the people who helped you along the way and all the great moments you've experienced," Thomas said while signing autographs Sunday afternoon at a sports card and memorabilia show at Logan's Party House on Scottsville Road.

Schobel showing up is a big deal for Buffalo

You can exhale, Bills fans: Aaron Schobel showed up to minicamp. The fretting over his absence from the organized team activities is a testament to how crucial he is to Buffalo's defense, and the fact he finally made it to Orchard Park, N.Y., for the optional-but-not-really pre-training camp workouts instantly makes the line better.

June 03, 2007

Parrish Looks to "Break Out" in Year 3

It is common belief that most NFL wide receivers destined for stardom have their "break-out" year in their third season. With two years under their belt, most young receivers see huge jumps in production during what is now deemed to be the most important year in a young wide receiver's career. As Bills fans, we were witness to a break-out performance from a third-year receiver last season as Lee Evans increased his career highs in receptions by 34 and yards by 449. Is Roscoe Parrish our next break-out performer at wide receiver?

BILLS: Van Pelt responds to obscene e-mail report

Alex Van Pelt, the former Bills backup quarterback who went on to provide color commentary for radio broadcasts and now works on the offensive coaching staff, is reportedly upset that his name appeared in an online report about a pornographic e-mail that circulated the NFL last month.

Pats Go For Broke

New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady turns 30 in August. He probably has four more years to play in the prime of his career. The Patriots appear determined to make the most of them.

Fall leaves Royal with sprained shoulder

The Buffalo Bills will get a little longer look at some of the younger tight ends on the roster the next two weeks. That’s because starting tight end Robert Royal is out for the last two weeks of spring practice due to what’s described as a sprained shoulder.

Hill honored by former LSU, NFL teammates at funeral

NEW ORLEANS -- As he stood near the casket of late New England Patriots and LSU teammate Marquise Hill, defensive lineman Jarvis Green swallowed hard, took some deep breaths and offered a few fond memories to Hill's grieving relatives. "He made everybody laugh," Green said. "The first time I met him he made me laugh and the last time I talked to him he made me laugh. He worked hard. He gave his all. ... That's the kind of person he was."

Five Bills to keep an eye on

There are still six weeks to go before the Buffalo Bills and their NFL brethren open their training camps, even though the neverending spring minicamps make it feel different.

June 02, 2007

Rookie back off on the Wright foot

Rookie running back Dwayne Wright can feel especially good about landing with the Buffalo Bills this spring. Like any rookie draft pick, he knows he ended up in a city where he is wanted. No team drafts a player it doesn’t like. Wright, however, can take some added confidence in the fact he has a big booster in the top man in the organization — Bills owner Ralph C. Wilson Jr.

June 01, 2007

Insider's Analysis: Bills LB Paul Posluszny

Buffalo fans are clearly excited about rookie linebacker Paul Posluszny, while fans around the AFC East, AFC North and NFC East will get to know him better when their teams take on the Bills this season. Get an insider's perspective on Posluszny from FightOnState.com's Mark Brennan in this Scout.com feature.

Steve Tasker Will Be Added to Bills "Wall of Fame"

Steve Tasker will join 23 other men on the Buffalo Bills "Wall of Fame" on September 9th during their opening game against the Denver Broncos. Tasker was elected to seven Pro Bowls, the most by any special teams coverage man in NFL history, over his 11 year career.

Hunter's Hope gala set for July 27

The fifth annual Hunter’s Hope Candlelight Ball to fight Krabbe disease scheduled for 7 p.m., July 27 at the Rochester Institute of Technology Inn & Conference Center in Henrietta. The event is hosted by former Buffalo Bills quarterback Jim Kelly and his wife, Jill. PAETEC Corporation Chairman and CEO Arunas Chesonis is chair for the gala event.

Walker holdout may be precursor to future problems for Bills

For Buffalo, the sad thing is that the Walker situation may be foreshadowing a trio of future contract issues with other Bills, namely Aaron Schobel, Lee Evans and Jason Peters. Those are three of the team's peak performers, and all have deals that could lead their respective agents to badger the Bills for more money.