State of the Bills Roster: Middle Linebackers

by Brian Galliford on Jan 12, 2009 9:00 AM EST in Events Comment 70 comments

Where will Posluszny play in '09? (buffalobills.com)

The "State of the Bills Roster" series trucks on! If you're new around these parts within the past nine months or so, this series is an off-season progression of posts in which we'll break down Buffalo's roster in-depth. From these discussions, we'll put together a "Community Needs List" in priority order, then begin researching potential free agent and draft acquisitions that will satisfy all of the Bills' needs as we perceive them.

We continue our foray into heavy-duty off-season work at Buffalo Rumblings right now. It's our "State of the Roster" series, off-season mode, and we'll continue the discussions by breaking down the Bills' situation at inside linebacker.
Previous installments: QB :: RB :: TE :: WR :: OT :: G/C :: DE :: DT
New: Prioritized Offensive Needs List

Opening statement
If there was one area on the Bills' team that was more negatively effected by Buffalo's well-publicized lack of a pass rush last season, their linebacking corps was it. In zone coverage, linebackers are the weakest links, and these players can only be playmakers when they don't have to move around in a zone waiting to be burned by receivers and tight ends. That happened far too often in 2008. The jury is still out on whether Buffalo's linebacking corps can make big plays routinely; regardless of that fact, change seems likely at this position. We'll start inside.

#51 Paul Posluszny (starter)
6'1", 238 pounds
Age: 25 in October 2009
Contract status: 2 years remaining (UFA after 2010); owed $1.265M in base salaries.
- There is a growing contingent of Bills fans who believe that Posluszny would be better off playing on the outside, a position he excelled at while in college at Penn State. There are whispers that Buffalo's coaching staff might agree with that, although in all honesty, it was difficult to complain about Posluszny's performance in 2008. Unsurprisingly the team leader in tackles, Poz was better than advertised in pass coverage, but like the rest of his fellow linebackers, lacked finish to his game. Could Poz perform better on the outside? We won't know unless it's tried, but for the time being, Poz remains this team's starting inside linebacker - and that's not the worst proposition I've ever heard by a long shot.

#52 John DiGiorgio
6'2", 229 pounds
Age: 26 in June 2009
Contract status: Restricted Free Agent.
- As a former undrafted free agent, DiGiorgio has vastly exceeded expectations simply by contributing something at some point in the early portions of his career. He proved adequate as a reserve in 2007 when he lined up at two linebacker positions, and he's a favorite of special teams coordinator Bobby April. The chances that DiGiorgio gets a tender offer to come back as a reserve linebacker and special teams player for the Bills in 2009 are very good, but make no mistake: DiGiorgio is a reserve through and through.

#58 Teddy Lehman
6'1", 238 pounds
Age: 28 in November 2009
Contract status: Undisclosed.
- Lehman was signed during the '08 season as a street free agent while the Bills were going through linebackers like underpants (Buffalo eventually had four linebackers on injured reserve). He likely got a one-year deal at the veteran minimum, and the chances that he's retained as a serious part of the team's future plans are minimal.

The Breakdown
Keepers: Posluszny, DiGiorgio. Regardless of where Posluszny lines up in '09, he's a good young player that has the ability to get a lot better as he gains more experience. DiGiorgio should be back because of his versatility and good favor with April.

Extendables: None.

Expendables: Lehman. Linebackers like him are a dime a dozen.

Questionables: None.

What we need: It might be just me, but I'm pretty content with Posluszny playing on the inside. He plays with good leverage, hits lanes hard, and while he finds himself out of position from time to time, he'll iron those issues out with more experience. But if the Bills want to maximize a player's potential (for once), they'd be better off moving Posluszny to the strong side, where his lane-clogging ability will be emphasized further and his coverage skills not so readily exposed. We'll see if that happens. If it does, the Bills should target an inside linebacker with a bit more size to shed, clog and explode through the line. If Poz stays inside - which I'm believing a little less every day - then the Bills will likely focus their attentions on the outside spots.

That's it. I'm done with the easy stuff. Now it's on you, folks. Make sure to vote in the poll on whether or not you think Poz should play inside or outside next season - it'll help us determine whether or not MLB is an actual need next season. Also, if you're Buffalo, is getting DiGiorgio back in town a priority? Have fun with this, and let's get brainstorming.

Poll

Should Paul Posluszny play inside linebacker in 2009, or should the Bills move him to the strong side?

Keep him inside

89 votes

Move him to strong side

261 votes

350 votes | Poll has closed

0 recs | Comment 70 comments | Share

Story-email Email Printer Print

Comments

Brian you should include an option to move him to the weakside as well

BEAST MODE, During the week plan on it & on game day thrive on it!
GO BILLS!
Section 336 Row 13

by keysh67 on Jan 12, 2009 9:06 AM EST reply actions 0 recs

I purposely left that off because Mitchell is firmly entrenched as the weak-side ‘backer. Buffalo signed him for that specific purpose, so the chances are minimal that they’d move him.

Buffalo Rumblings - all you care to know about the Buffalo Bills and more

by Brian Galliford on Jan 12, 2009 9:37 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Besides after asking you to add the option I realized that Mitchell’s lateral movement is too slow to play SLB and he is better at WLB than MLB, I think?

BEAST MODE, During the week plan on it & on game day thrive on it!
GO BILLS!
Section 336 Row 13

by keysh67 on Jan 12, 2009 9:40 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs

You’re pretty much right. Mitchell’s strengths – playing downhill and blitzing – are best utilized at the weak side. Why move him if he’d be worse elsewhere?

Buffalo Rumblings - all you care to know about the Buffalo Bills and more

by Brian Galliford on Jan 12, 2009 9:46 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Draft Middle Linebacker

like Maulaga, Brandon Spikes, or Aaron Brooks – All studs, and some of the best linebackers to come out in the draft in years. Then move Poz to outside and the Bills suddenly have in my opinion, a very solid group.

by BuffaloWhiner on Jan 12, 2009 9:12 AM EST reply actions 0 recs

Ohhhh man… Poz, Spikes and Mitchell would be killer…

Buffalo Rumblings - all you care to know about the Buffalo Bills and more

by Brian Galliford on Jan 12, 2009 9:38 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs

mitchell

has to be our Weak side backer. I love the thought of drafting a LB at #11 and then move that guy to middle if it makes sense, but to me it just seems like LB’s aren’t that hard to find, and why not just sign a FA? But i’m not a great LB mind, so I guess I’m not sure. I think maybe drafting a LB in rounds 2-5 and signing a FA is the way to go

MARVelous

by MARVelous on Jan 12, 2009 9:49 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs

I still firmly believe that we have a good LB that could be re-signed at a reasonable cost (given that he is coming off of an injury).
I know you have said repeatedly that Jauron does not like Crowell so you think he’s gonzo but I think the FO (more specifically Brandon) likes Crowell and more importantly Jauron is on a short leash (or at least I hope so) and why would they let a good LB leave, then have a hole to fill with either an un-proven rookie or un-known FA, that you don’t know that well? I think Crowell is quite aggressive of a player which is what Jauron doesn’t like and frankly I hate Jauron’s wimpy approach so I like the aggressive guys (like Spikes & Fletcher). I am hoping for a more aggressive defense in 2009 (à la Jim Johnson!) and keeping a guy like Crowell would be a great start.

BEAST MODE, During the week plan on it & on game day thrive on it!
GO BILLS!
Section 336 Row 13

by keysh67 on Jan 12, 2009 9:50 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs

You’re right that Wilson and the front office might have a short leash on Jauron. That’s the only way Crowell comes back.

Buffalo Rumblings - all you care to know about the Buffalo Bills and more

by Brian Galliford on Jan 12, 2009 10:07 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Agreed there, that would be the only way I see Crowell back

And thats only if Wilson and the Circle like Crowell more than DJ does.

Now if only this gopher could play DE, we would be doing better, I mean, who couldn't play better than the corpse brothers Kelsay and Denney?

by WABillsfan on Jan 12, 2009 1:26 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

yes!

Why not re-sign Crowell. We have so many needs and limited resources (draft picks and money) to fill them all with that it makes sense not to take care of one with talent sitting right under our nose

Kawika Mitchell is a leader. He will help this young team develop.

by poz on Jan 12, 2009 1:44 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Most of the defense underachieves

So, its either the players themselves or the coaching. Take your pick, but something has to change, and Poz to the outside would not bother me, but when watching Baltimore, Pittsburgh, tennessee, and the Eagles….we have some improvement to do. I mean, the guys on Pittsburgh are absolute animals. Brett Keisel, just to name one, was demoralizing a good San Diego line…and those teams leave me extremely envious as a fan…

The Bills CAN win every game

by killascript on Jan 12, 2009 9:18 AM EST reply actions 0 recs

I am not opposed to moving Poz

But until we actually sign a FA or draft someone who can do it better, Poz is our best option in the middle.

"The Bills have no playoff aspirations"

by Joe P. on Jan 12, 2009 9:24 AM EST reply actions 0 recs

Agree, totally

John Madden told me 90% of the game was half-mental...

by TheK-GunNeedsReloaded on Jan 12, 2009 1:45 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Mitchell seems too heavy and stiff for the weakside. I’d like to see him on the strongside but then again, the strongside has way more ground to cover and Poz is stout against the run and very able to cover laterally. I would like us to re-sign Crowell and move him back to MLB where he belongs (in a Tampa 2 style defense)

We have a great LB in Crowell who won’t cost a fortune to re-sign given his injury. He knows our system and he is a well above average LB and he performed very well at MLB. I can’t see us drafting a LB at 11 for a few reasons (1) we have too many other needs (2) we have a young veteran in Crowell that could easily be re-signed who knows our systems and we know him (3) we need to keep some veteran leadership in the LB core, I would hate to see another rookie and then we are going to complain that we are too young in our LB core.

Mitchell / Crowell / Poz would be great for 2009!

BEAST MODE, During the week plan on it & on game day thrive on it!
GO BILLS!
Section 336 Row 13

by keysh67 on Jan 12, 2009 9:25 AM EST reply actions 0 recs

Moving Poz outside soudns fine to me...

I thought Mitchell was a MLB in New york or KC. Am I wrong about that?

If Poz moves outside, I’d love to see him flying into the backfield making plays instead of dropping into coverage so much. His talent is tackling and I don’t like him going backwards into his zone before coming up and making a tackle. Not a dig on Poz.

I would love to see Crowell Mitchell and Poz back but I don’t know where they should line up. Crowell in the middle of this defense probably works well. He is swift, as long as his injury hasn’t hurt him too much there, and can stay close to many backs and TEs in space. I guess I agree with keysh on that.

I would poop myself if they didn’t sign a LB in free agency. It’s the Front office’s MO. They sign a LB going onto his second (or in Mitchell’s case with a one year contract in NY, third) contract while they are relatively young but have experience. Crowell would fit that mold. So would a lot of the other names (except Ray Lewis) people keep throwing out there.

Playing Devil's Advocate at Buffalo Rumblings since 2007.

by MattRichWarren on Jan 12, 2009 9:34 AM EST reply actions 0 recs

He was weakside in NY and MLB in KC

BEAST MODE, During the week plan on it & on game day thrive on it!
GO BILLS!
Section 336 Row 13

by keysh67 on Jan 12, 2009 9:38 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Thanks for clearing it up

Playing Devil's Advocate at Buffalo Rumblings since 2007.
Eternal optimist.

by MattRichWarren on Jan 12, 2009 9:55 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs

he was MLB

in KC. Weak side in NYG. THat’s where he excels. IN a 4-3, and his timing of blitzes. He has a great knack for that.

MARVelous

by MARVelous on Jan 12, 2009 9:50 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs

thanks

Playing Devil's Advocate at Buffalo Rumblings since 2007.
Eternal optimist.

by MattRichWarren on Jan 12, 2009 9:55 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs

We have been promised “big changes” this offseason. Let’s hope that starts with getting a MLB in free agency and moving Poz to the outside. He has done well at MLB but is it his favorite/natural position? Probably not. Just like a switch hitter in baseball. He can hit from both sides but the stats say he favors one side.

If I’m DJ and staff any potential resigning of Crowell would hinge on whether he would disrupt team chemistry. If we assume that Crowell is ok physically, then would he fit in? What would be the difference in cost between resigning him vs bringing in someone like Vilma? If the coaches intend to move Poz to the outside then Crowell walks. If they talk to some key players on the D and don’t get a good feel for resigning Crowell, he’s gone. Personally I hope he’s gone.

Teddy Lehman was a ghost here. What is wrong with him? A second round pick who cannot stay healthy. He came into this league with lots of promise and all he does is stay injured. I hope he didn’t invest with Bernie Madoff.

everything goes better with a BIG MACK

by keuka121 on Jan 12, 2009 10:23 AM EST reply actions 0 recs

What stats support Poz on the outside? He hasn’t played down as an OLB in the NFL, so I’m not sure what you are talking about there….

~K
"I’m Kurupt with Buffalo Rumblings. I am worth hundreds!"

by Kurupt on Jan 12, 2009 11:09 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs

NO stats just his time at Penn State. I used the stats to show that even though someone is capable of multitasking he favors one over the other and will be better at his favored position.

everything goes better with a BIG MACK

by keuka121 on Jan 12, 2009 12:03 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

I agree with you K.

Although I believe like keuka121 that Poz would be better at SLB, there is no certainty that he’ll be better there than MLB. When I suggested that Crowell is too good a FA to let slip away and that he knows our system well, etc, etc. What I like is that he can play the SLB position way better than Ellison. He looks like a great fit at MLB and he has played for us at that position so he knows the system. By re-signing him, we make the switch in the spring and by the second preseason game if it doesn’t seem to be an upgrade then they both switch back, it would still be quite an upgrade from his year.

BEAST MODE, During the week plan on it & on game day thrive on it!
GO BILLS!
Section 336 Row 13

by keysh67 on Jan 12, 2009 12:27 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

again with "Big Changes"

I don’t think we were promised “big changes.” Wilson said:

"I believe in the last few years we have gotten close personnel wise and look forward to another strong draft, more assertive veteran leadership and continued improvement from our young quarterback."

We should not expect “BIG CHANGES.” I don’t expect anything other than the same old. Sign a couple FA’s, draft all 7 guys, and stick with the Cash to the Cap philosophy.

MARVelous

by MARVelous on Jan 12, 2009 12:15 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

It’s Brian that sorta predicted a big splash.

BEAST MODE, During the week plan on it & on game day thrive on it!
GO BILLS!
Section 336 Row 13

by keysh67 on Jan 12, 2009 12:28 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

LOL I didn’t predict anything. I was basically writing that big changes in personnel, that proverbial “splash”, would be the only way Wilson could redeem himself even a little this off-season.

Buffalo Rumblings - all you care to know about the Buffalo Bills and more

by Brian Galliford on Jan 12, 2009 12:37 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Sorry my bad

You’re right that is the way you said it. But nonetheless, a lot of Rumblers have been talking about a big splash ever since.

For the record, I seriously doubt that Wilson feels any need to redeem himself with the fan base. I doubt he cares.

BEAST MODE, During the week plan on it & on game day thrive on it!
GO BILLS!
Section 336 Row 13

by keysh67 on Jan 12, 2009 12:40 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

I’ll second that last notion of yours. But we’ve made big moves in the past; a Stroud-like acquisition would do wonders for the morale of this fan base.

Buffalo Rumblings - all you care to know about the Buffalo Bills and more

by Brian Galliford on Jan 12, 2009 12:46 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

so...

I should blame you then Brian, for my hopes being shattered after you raised them instead of blaming Ralph? Ok, good to know. haha

Kawika Mitchell is a leader. He will help this young team develop.

by poz on Jan 12, 2009 1:48 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Haha, well, I mean, you can if you want, but it’s probably more productive to blame Ralph should that travesty occur.

Buffalo Rumblings - all you care to know about the Buffalo Bills and more

by Brian Galliford on Jan 12, 2009 2:02 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Why?

Why does everyone just assume Poz would make a good SLB? Because he played there for a while in college? This isn’t college guys. To me, Poz struggles in space, and you want to throw him out into more space?!?!?! They drafted this guy to play MLB last year, they aren’t going to be switching him now…

And since when is Crowell a “great” LB? He’s probably above average, but he sure isn’t great.

~K
"I’m Kurupt with Buffalo Rumblings. I am worth hundreds!"

by Kurupt on Jan 12, 2009 11:08 AM EST reply actions 0 recs

I’m not sure how moving a player outside is moving him into “more space”. Against the run, he’d be a contain guy, and his ability to occupy blockers and shed them on the edge of the box would work better there than simply plugging up gaps in the middle. In coverage, he’d be dropping back on one side of the field, rather than being the center-fielder, which he’s struggled with. If he’s covering on the outside, he’s got help from corners and safeties; if he’s in the middle, he’s pretty much all alone, save for some safety help coming forward.

Plus, when I interviewed Black Shoe Diaries about Poz the day after he was drafted in 2007, their editor, Mike, told me that he thought Poz had a lot more play-making potential on the outside as opposed to inside, where his instincts and responsibilities are a bit more limited. Isn’t play-making what this defense needs more than anything?

Agree with you about Crowell, though.

Buffalo Rumblings - all you care to know about the Buffalo Bills and more

by Brian Galliford on Jan 12, 2009 11:17 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Not sure what I was thinking regarding space. Maybe I was thinking W vs SLB…..oh well

Anyways, maybe he would be better outside, but right now who knows. I just don’t understand how so many can claim that it’s all but guaranteed that he’d be better on the outside. Nobody knows that.

~K
"I’m Kurupt with Buffalo Rumblings. I am worth hundreds!"

by Kurupt on Jan 12, 2009 11:25 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Yeah, I agree with you in that avenue. It’s all hypothetical based on a position he played in a different defense in college. I wouldn’t be totally averse to the idea of moving Poz outside, but like you said, he was drafted specifically to play MLB by Jauron. So I have to think that he stays and we look for an SLB.

Buffalo Rumblings - all you care to know about the Buffalo Bills and more

by Brian Galliford on Jan 12, 2009 12:02 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

yeah

I’m not sold on that argument either. I think as far as Poz with his size he might be better taking on strong side of formations than a smaller guy obviously, but I don’t know enough about it to suggest which position he would be better at. However, if/when we bring in a talented LB, the coaches will have that idea in their mind from the get go whether that said FA or draft pick will force Poz to switch. So only time will tell

MARVelous

by MARVelous on Jan 12, 2009 12:18 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

I agree

But when you look at the available FA’s, Crowell is our best bet. He clearly is an upgrade from Ellison and he knows our system. I think he would be better at MLB than SLB, which would be perfect if Poz is switched to the outside. But in either case Crowell’s options because of the year on IR are way more limited and I am certain that we can extend him for 2 years at a reasonable price. This way we don’t need to worry about it in the draft, and can fill other real big positions of need such as DE, C & TE

BEAST MODE, During the week plan on it & on game day thrive on it!
GO BILLS!
Section 336 Row 13

by keysh67 on Jan 12, 2009 12:37 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

I think he would be better at MLB than SLB, which would be perfect if Poz is switched to the outside.

If that were the case, then the Bills would have moved Crowell inside when they drafted Posluszny. Instead, they kept Crowell outside and put Poz in the middle. That should speak volumes about both players.

I don’t think Crowell is our best bet, either. There are a few linebackers potentially available that I’d rather have.

Buffalo Rumblings - all you care to know about the Buffalo Bills and more

by Brian Galliford on Jan 12, 2009 12:48 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Such as?

BEAST MODE, During the week plan on it & on game day thrive on it!
GO BILLS!
Section 336 Row 13

by keysh67 on Jan 12, 2009 1:15 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

I would take all of these guys over Crowell

- Karlos Dansby, Arizona Cardinals
- Mike Peterson, Jacksonville Jaguars
- Bart Scott, Baltimore Ravens
- Michael Boley, Atlanta Falcons
- Channing Crowder, Miami Dolphins
- Leroy Hill, Seattle Sehawks

That is obviously just the FAs

The time has come for someone to put his foot down. And that foot is me.

by sireric on Jan 12, 2009 1:22 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

And to answer you, keysh, Eric included all of the names I was going to mention in his list. Dansby, Boley, Crowder and Hill.

Buffalo Rumblings - all you care to know about the Buffalo Bills and more

by Brian Galliford on Jan 12, 2009 1:29 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

I really like Hill and Boley myself

I think both of them will come cheaper than Dansby at this point, and they is not a huge disparity between them and Carlos. Carlos is earning himself HUGE HUGE HUGE piles of cash in his upcoming FA right now due to how the playoffs for Arizona are going.

Hill was a good blitzer, is big, and plays downhill when given the chance. His blitzing role got reduced when Julian Peterson came to town, for obvious reasons. Having Daryl Tapp and Kearney has also cut into the need to bring him against the OLine, but he is a very solid tackler and has very good size-speed ratios.

Boley, is well Boley, and anyone who knows LB play knows Boley is as solid a player as you can find. I think we may luck out with him Contract wise due to Atlanta tanking out so early in the Playoffs and Dansby making big bucks and Scott coming out as well.

Now if only this gopher could play DE, we would be doing better, I mean, who couldn't play better than the corpse brothers Kelsay and Denney?

by WABillsfan on Jan 12, 2009 1:35 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

I am a stats guy and normally they give a fairly good picture. Stats don’t indicate if the player plays the system properly but it sure as hell confirms if the player is near the ball often enough to affect the stats. Furthermore, there is no way of knowing if the other FA are good system guys either, again the only real measuring stick is their stats. So with that in mind:

Crowell (246lbs) last year: 126Tackles, 1FF, 1INT, 2 Sacks

Dansby 119Tackles, 2FF, 2INT, 4 sacks (MLB, I agree this guy would be an upgrade but also way more $$)
Peterson 84Tackles, 0FF, 0INT, 1 sacks (MLB 4-3 LB, OK size at 238lbs)
Scott 82Tackles, 2FF, 0INT, 1.5 sacks (OLB 3-4 Linebacker, OK size at 240lbs)
Boley 73Tackles, 0 FF, 1 INT, 0 sacks (223lbs is too small for SLB)
Crowder 113Tackles, 1FF, 0INT, 0 sacks (ILB 3-4 Linebacker, good size at 250lbs)
Hill 84Tackles, 0FF, 0INT, 1Sacks (OLB, 4-3 OK size)

From this list the only one that I like more than Crowell is Dansby. If would could land him in FA, great!!
And from the remaining list of FAs, I much prefer Crowell.

BEAST MODE, During the week plan on it & on game day thrive on it!
GO BILLS!
Section 336 Row 13

by keysh67 on Jan 12, 2009 2:21 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Bart Scott is an inside linebacker in Baltimore’s 3-4; Terrell Suggs and Jarret Johnson handle the outside responsibilities. There’s no telling how good he’d be outside in a 4-3. Same with Crowder. I prefer Crowder simply because he’s a bit bigger.

Hill’s 07 stats are better, and since Seattle had a down year this year, I consider those numbers more accurate: 81 tackles, 3FF, 0 INT, 3 sacks, 1 defensive TD.

Boley is explosive. Obviously he’s better off on the weak side, but I’d still give his tape a serious look if I’m Buffalo’s coaching staff.

Buffalo Rumblings - all you care to know about the Buffalo Bills and more

by Brian Galliford on Jan 12, 2009 2:34 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Sometimes its not about stats.

I want a guy with some intensity and toughness. Crowell seems a little laid back to me. A guy like Bart Scott has lots of fire and plays with the kind of agressiveness I think we would all like to see.

The time has come for someone to put his foot down. And that foot is me.

by sireric on Jan 12, 2009 2:49 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Perception is a funny thing...

Funny because one of the main things that I liked about Crowell is that he looks way more aggressive on the field than the others. Two years ago when compared to Spikes maybe he paled in comparisson but last year with Digi & Ellison, he clearly looked way more amped up on each play. He certainly never looked Laid back to me.

BEAST MODE, During the week plan on it & on game day thrive on it!
GO BILLS!
Section 336 Row 13

by keysh67 on Jan 12, 2009 3:03 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

hes also the only linebacker

we have left who played with Fletcher and Spikes and learned from them so I would imagine their intensity may have rubbed off on him. I just can’t believe how willing we are to boot Crowell out the door. He developed here and has done nothing but produce for us.

Kawika Mitchell is a leader. He will help this young team develop.

by poz on Jan 12, 2009 3:24 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

has done nothing but produce for us.

Except when he waits until the day before the season opener to get his knee checked out. I’m not saying that he isn’t a good player, just that I firmly believe that this team can do better. If the coaching staff really felt like he was a great fit in this defense then why the quick trip to the IR?

The time has come for someone to put his foot down. And that foot is me.

by sireric on Jan 12, 2009 3:29 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

who knows maybe he doesn’t get along well with peewee Fewel or Jauron? Maybe he questions their system and approach wanting more aggressiveness? Who knows? All I know is that last season, he always seemed amped-up and flying around all over the place.

I agree with Poz that he was around Spikes & Fletcher and has a similar demeanor, which is something that I personally like. I would love to see more aggressiveness from our D

BEAST MODE, During the week plan on it & on game day thrive on it!
GO BILLS!
Section 336 Row 13

by keysh67 on Jan 12, 2009 4:30 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Well, with the way FA is shaping up anyhow

There are no REAL MLB candidates outside of Vilma coming out to it right now. There are a LOT of OLBs making the jump into the FA pool though, and that will be a lot easier hole to fill just based on available bodies.

Now if only this gopher could play DE, we would be doing better, I mean, who couldn't play better than the corpse brothers Kelsay and Denney?

by WABillsfan on Jan 12, 2009 1:31 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

If he was stinking it up in the middle I would be more inclined to vote move him....

however seeing as the team has many more pressing needs than MLB…..There is no reason whatsoever to draft a MLB first………….however it’s a interesting dilemna if someone like Rey-Rey or Brandon Spikes is there at 11…….it might be too hard to pass one of them up……

BTW even though I dont really think a MLB should be the choice at 11 I’d rather take one and move Poz outside than take one of the “top DE’s”

12/19/08 - Thank you KLJ for coming into my life.

by norcaliangelsfan on Jan 12, 2009 11:51 AM EST reply actions 0 recs

my favorite linebacker scenarios

WLB – Dansby
MLB – Mitchell
Slb – Poz

WLB – Mitchell
MLB – Maualuga
SLB – Poz

Both are possible, and either way we’re sittin’ pretty. I think I prefer the first scenario so we can go after a round 1 DE.

by bruuuuce_02 on Jan 12, 2009 11:55 AM EST reply actions 0 recs

I don’t think that the “Big Splash” will be a LB, There are so many quality LBs in free agency and the draft, that I think the Bills will fill the spot with a lesser name if you will. My money might be on a guy like Scott, or Hill who would be nice lower price pick-ups.

If I had to throw a name out there that would drastically change this defense it would be Brian Dawkins. He is a FA and he is exactly what the Bills were hoping to get in Donte Whitner. He’ll cost a lot but he would be the team leader and tough, physical player that this D needs.

The time has come for someone to put his foot down. And that foot is me.

by sireric on Jan 12, 2009 1:07 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

and he has a lot of wear and tear on him......

but he’s a man beast thats for sure.

12/19/08 - Thank you KLJ for coming into my life.

by norcaliangelsfan on Jan 12, 2009 1:16 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Not saying I would give him a 10 year deal. But a 3 year deal wouldn’t be terrible and the impact that he could have on this defense would be incredible.

The time has come for someone to put his foot down. And that foot is me.

by sireric on Jan 12, 2009 1:18 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

a la when the Bills picked up Troy Vincent.......

and yes…..he would be incredible….

12/19/08 - Thank you KLJ for coming into my life.

by norcaliangelsfan on Jan 12, 2009 3:27 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

LB depth in FA

Is exactly why I would like the Bills to use FA to fill the LB need. The LACK of Defensive End depth in FA is why I think round 1 would be a great spot to grab a DE. Lots of options there also.

Dansby, Scott, and Vilma are my favorites in free agency. Farrior wouldn’t be a bad pickup either. He’s old, but he’s a damn good player.

by bruuuuce_02 on Jan 12, 2009 1:22 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Agreed

FA LBs who are quality players is VERY high this year. FA DEs who are quality players is extremely LOW this year. So therefore if the Bills are thinking in a sane manner, they need to fill the hole at LB with a FA and maybe a very late round developmental guy.

Now if only this gopher could play DE, we would be doing better, I mean, who couldn't play better than the corpse brothers Kelsay and Denney?

by WABillsfan on Jan 12, 2009 1:37 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

I would do the following

Right now I am going with the following assumptions.
1- DJ loves having Poz in the MLB spot and will keep him there.
2- DJ does NOT like Crowell, and will be looking to replace.

I would then go this route with the above assumptions. I would aim for either Boley or Hill, both of whom had realtively down years in their contract seasons making them cheap options with big upside.

Boley played alot of this season hurt, and lost his spot to Coy Wire for that reason and will come cheap, but can be a huge difference maker if he comes in healthy for his checkups with the Bills.

Hill was hurt due to the fact that the Seahawks just plain sucked this year, and that he was playing back on his heels alot in pass coverage due to the Seahawks not getting much of a pass rush (like us, hmmm) and not being able to come up and make plays. He is a solid guy who never made waves with the team when Peterson came in and took his job as the blitzing backer and I think he would be a solid vet presence on this team with Mitchell.

Now if only this gopher could play DE, we would be doing better, I mean, who couldn't play better than the corpse brothers Kelsay and Denney?

by WABillsfan on Jan 12, 2009 1:43 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

Why do we have to go fot the cheap guys?

We have cap room, and we should use it. We deserve the best free agents just like any other team. Let’s get the best LB we can find.

by bruuuuce_02 on Jan 12, 2009 2:23 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

That would be Karlos Dansby!

BEAST MODE, During the week plan on it & on game day thrive on it!
GO BILLS!
Section 336 Row 13

by keysh67 on Jan 12, 2009 3:04 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

oH and I forgot my favorite..

Terrel Suggs but i’d convert him back to DE

BEAST MODE, During the week plan on it & on game day thrive on it!
GO BILLS!
Section 336 Row 13

by keysh67 on Jan 12, 2009 3:04 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

I would do the same thing with Suggs

He is of more use to us as a DE than a LBer.

Now if only this gopher could play DE, we would be doing better, I mean, who couldn't play better than the corpse brothers Kelsay and Denney?

by WABillsfan on Jan 12, 2009 3:11 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

The issue here is this

We have ALOT of holes to fill, and I would rather spend the majority of my money in FA on two other positions.

1- C, an even bigger mess and hole needing to be filled than LB
2- WR, Hardy will be out until late Oct./Early Nov due to an ACL tear, and unless Steve Johnson shows he is ready to be a true blue #2 WR, we need to spend some cash on getting a real #2 WR in here, meaning an expesive 1 year rental or 2 year rental depending on how the team views Hardy’s eventual return.

Also, by getting Hill or Boley on the cheap (and Crowell could be had that way too) we get good play for not a whole pile of cash. Dansby has always been a good player, but he is playing GREAT right now, so ummmm, why? HE IS IN A CONTRACT YEAR. I avoid those guys as much as I can, for one simple reason, what will they do when they get paid?

Now if only this gopher could play DE, we would be doing better, I mean, who couldn't play better than the corpse brothers Kelsay and Denney?

by WABillsfan on Jan 12, 2009 3:10 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Oh yeah, I forgot to add

After C and WR, we also need a DE in FA as I do NOT expect us to get a huge return on a DE at #11, yes a good situational guy, but we need better than Kelsay out there full time. And I am leery about Schobel being healthy full time, a Lisfranc foot injury goes one of 2 ways, either it gets better, or it becomes a permenant hobbling style injury. Yeah you come back from it, but your diminished from what you were, and Schobel has been declining slightly the past 2 seasons already.

So we have 4 holes in FA to fill, we gotta figure where our money is best spent getting someone. I feel that Crowell, Boley, and Hill are all of the same level, so why not get one of them cheaper than the rest? Thats just good business sense, and thats what the Bills are, a business.

We only have so much money, we MUST priotorize where that money is spent, and I would prefer it to be on a C or DE personally if we need to go big bucks in one position, so that means our #2 WR and our new OLB or MLB has gotta come in behind the C or DE payout.

Now if only this gopher could play DE, we would be doing better, I mean, who couldn't play better than the corpse brothers Kelsay and Denney?

by WABillsfan on Jan 12, 2009 3:14 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

I much prefer getting Mack in the draft than any of the available Free Agents, most of who are other teams hand-me-downs. There must be a reason why Mini is not even entertaining the idea of re-signing Birk and I found it really odd that Indy drafted 3 Centers last year, like they were planning something.

I Like Suggs because he is in his prime, he will be productive for many more years and he brings a lot of leadership & much needed aggressiveness. I would also like Dansby but two big FA signings is probably too much to hope for. So I would settle for re-signing Crowell.

Then Get Mack, A great pass-catching TE and a DE in the draft.

BEAST MODE, During the week plan on it & on game day thrive on it!
GO BILLS!
Section 336 Row 13

by keysh67 on Jan 12, 2009 4:37 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

I forgot to mention that I agree with your Rent-a-WR approach to mitigate the possibility that Johnson is not ready. But to be honest with you I blame the coaching staff more than anything. Steve Johnson has done extremely well every chance that he has gotten and I am of the opinion that he should’ve gotten way more opportunities especially considering that Reed was out for a few weeks. Roscoe Parrish is not an NFL caliber #2 or #3 receiver. He is a great punt return man and a specialty player that can affect a game – that’s all he will ever be.

I think the coaching staff gave him the reps because of the pecking order. If they were truly able to evaluate talent properly they should have had Johnson on the field more. I agree with getting a guy like Toomer or Panda for a 2y deal would be a great stop-gap!

BEAST MODE, During the week plan on it & on game day thrive on it!
GO BILLS!
Section 336 Row 13

by keysh67 on Jan 12, 2009 4:51 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Move Poz to the Strong Side

and watch him become an ALL-PRO.

by gjv on Jan 12, 2009 2:17 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

if we were to move Poz outside....

Would you want a rookie to take control of the defensive playcalling at the middle linebacker spot or would they keep having Poz do it?

Don't forget to pay the troll toll...

by evdawg419 on Jan 12, 2009 11:29 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

Poz Overrated

This guy is the most overrated player on the team. I will never forget the play against Denver when Cutler was scrambling, had a Bills’ lineman hanging on him, was running straight at Poz and Poz missed him! Also, he did not have a single tackle all season in the oppositions backfield.
I say try him at outside linebacker on another team.

by jpheff on Jan 16, 2009 10:01 AM EST reply actions 0 recs