Identifying the "crux players" on Buffalo's roster
by Brian Galliford on Dec 1, 2009 12:00 PM EST
in Buffalo Bills News
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PrintTwo weeks ago - a day before the Buffalo Bills fired head coach Dick Jauron, in fact - we here at Buffalo Rumblings took a look at the core players of Buffalo's roster. The idea behind the post was to identify players that, based on their contract status with the franchise, are very likely to survive a regime change at One Bills Drive.
We'll recap the fruits of that labor quickly after the jump, but the purpose of this post is to take that exercise a step further. With the core players out of the way, it's time to look at the players that I'll term "crux players" - guys with flexible contract situations that will define a new regime's focus on re-building the Bills.
Core player recap
We named 17 current Bills as "core players," splitting the group up into vested veterans, young players with promise and role-playing veterans awaiting new roles once the regime change is complete. Of those 17 players, we defined a solid 9 as starting-caliber, a further six as fringe starters, and two as reserves. Here's that breakdown:
Starters: RB Fred Jackson, WR Lee Evans, G/C Eric Wood, DE Aaron Schobel, DT Marcus Stroud, LB Kawika Mitchell, CB Terrence McGee, FS Jairus Byrd, P Brian Moorman
Fringe starters: TE Shawn Nelson, OT Brad Butler, OG Andy Levitre, DE Aaron Maybin, DT Kyle Williams, CB Leodis McKelvin
Reserves: C/G Geoff Hangartner, DT Spencer Johnson
Keep in mind that all of these players are currently under contract through the end of the 2012 season. That means that, if each plays to the end of their contract, they'll be in Buffalo for another three years. The fact that each player has at least three years left on his deal at least ensures that they'll be part of the roster in Year 1 of a new regime, and many of them will be playing considerably large roles.
For this exercise, the criteria changes a bit. "Crux players," as far as we're concerned for now, are players that, once the 2009 season ends, will have either one or two years left on their current deal. Each is under contract for the 2010 season, but each also has a deal that makes it possible for a new regime to play football in 2010 without these players under contract. They are truly "crux" players in that a new regime will be making its most important decisions amongst this group. The entire new direction of the franchise from a personnel standpoint will be based largely on evaluations of these 19 players.
Keep in mind, also, that this list changes if 2010 is an uncapped year. Ask MattRichWarren about it.
Buffalo's 19 "crux players"
You'll have a task at the end of this exercise, but for now, here's a quick summary of the 19 crux players on Buffalo's roster:
- Trent Edwards, QB - Signed through 2011. He's been benched and needs a new environment, but some talent remains.
- Ryan Fitzpatrick, QB - Signed through 2012. Has proven to be reliable as a backup, but is not considered a franchise signal-caller.
- Brian Brohm, QB - Signed through 2012. A project player with some solid tools, there's a chance he never sees the field for Buffalo.
- Marshawn Lynch, RB - Signed through 2013, with an opt-out clause in the final year. No longer the starting running back, Lynch might be the subject of trade talks this off-season.
- Corey McIntyre, FB - Signed through 2011. Run-of-the-mill player.
- James Hardy, WR - Signed through 2012. Buffalo invested a second-round pick in him, and the talent is there, but Hardy has had injury issues and hasn't seen the field much.
- Roscoe Parrish, WR - Signed through 2012. Has clamored for a trade, but a new regime might be inclined to keep him as a punt returner. Unlikely to get PT as a WR anywhere.
- Steve Johnson, WR - Signed through 2012. Held in high regard by current regime, but that could change quickly, and doesn't carry the same investment as Hardy.
- Derek Fine, TE - Signed through 2012. Probably survives a regime change because he's a role player with special teams ability.
- Demetrius Bell, OT - Signed through 2012. Has struggled with injuries and on the playing field, but again, there is raw ability to work with.
- Chris Kelsay, DE - Signed through 2011. A heady veteran who has improved under position coach Bob Sanders, but has a large salary that might seal his fate.
- Chris Ellis, DE - Signed through 2012. Does not play a significant role now and that's not likely to change, but represents a significant investment ('08 third-round pick).
- John McCargo, DT - Signed through 2011. Nothing more than a rotational tackle at this point in his disappointing career.
- Paul Posluszny, LB - Signed through 2011. Sure to be the most intensely-debated player on this list.
- Drayton Florence, CB - Signed through 2011. Has been excellent as a fill-in starter, and has scheme versatility.
- Reggie Corner, CB - Signed through 2012. Reserve-type corner that has his uses, but should never be counted on as a starter.
- Donte Whitner, S - Signed through 2011, with an opt-out clause in the final year. Could be a UFA as soon as this coming March. New regime might feel differently about him.
- John Wendling, S - Signed through 2011. Special teams player only.
- Rian Lindell, K - Signed through 2012. Reliable and gets more consistent with age.
Your Task
There's your list, folks. Some of those names obviously carry much more weight and importance than others. Your task: pick out the players that you believe are worth keeping around. Then, of those names, split them into starters and reserves. Combined with your input from the original post, this should really cement your ideas about where you'd take the franchise if you were GM.
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ya – S.Johnson as well. Slot receiver for now – all 3 starters
Never put salt in your eyes
by J2 on Dec 1, 2009 12:08 PM EST up reply actions
and yes – that’s it. I see a bunch of junk otherwise
Never put salt in your eyes
by J2 on Dec 1, 2009 12:12 PM EST up reply actions
Why is Steve Johnson a potential slot receiver?
I think that’s the worst role for him…
~K
"As the governor of Louisiana once said, the only way Chris Kelsay can lose his job is if he got caught in bed with a dead girl or a live boy."
well I just didn’t want to see him off the team yet – where ever. i honestly don’t really care if the rest are even on the team next year
Never put salt in your eyes
by J2 on Dec 1, 2009 1:32 PM EST up reply actions
He should be on the outside is what I meant
I don’t think he’ll be a slot receiver in the NFL.
~K
"As the governor of Louisiana once said, the only way Chris Kelsay can lose his job is if he got caught in bed with a dead girl or a live boy."
Yeah, big, strong, smooth, but kinda slow. Johnson could develop into a good starter, but the slot is where the little quick guys shine.
I signed up for Second Life about a year ago. Back then my life was so great that I literally wanted a second one. In my Second Life I was also a paper salesman and I was also named Dwight. Absolutely everything was the same. Except I could fly. - Dwight Schrute
whats wrong with Lindell?
He’s one of the most consistent kickers in the league and hit from 56 yards in Buffalo this weekend.
by Polish Lover on Dec 1, 2009 12:23 PM EST up reply actions
anything over 40yds he’s hit or miss
Never put salt in your eyes
by J2 on Dec 1, 2009 12:24 PM EST up reply actions
Isn’t that the case for all kickers?
Bill Polian and AJ Smith are gone, so there's not the usual balance between "sane" and "others." Ralph has mentally checked out since 1994. It's a very dangerous time. The coalition for reason is extremely weak.
Yes. I wouldn’t mind bring in some competition from a young guy though.
Official ledge-talker-offer of the Buffalo Bills.
pretty much were i’m at.
i really like him inside 40 – but outside – i don’t have a lot of faith. i find it hard to beleive that finding a reliable kicker inside 50 90% of the time is difficult to find – but it is
Never put salt in your eyes
by J2 on Dec 1, 2009 1:36 PM EST up reply actions
Not for a few
Current Phinsider Feud Points: 23
T.Lex doesn't want to be fed, he wants to hunt. Can't just suppress sixty five million years of gut instinct.
isn't every kick always hit or miss?
Jonathan Stupar won the Heisman…while playing in the NFL!
by JPH on Dec 1, 2009 1:55 PM EST up reply actions
My Opinion
Starters: Lindell, Whitner, Poz, Kelsay
Reserves: Parrish, Hardy, Corner, Florence, Fitzpatrick, Lynch, Bell, Fine, Johnson
Cut: Wendling, McCargo, Ellis, McIntrye, Edwards, Brohm
by Circle the Wagons88 on Dec 1, 2009 12:09 PM EST reply actions
By the way
there are 19 guys on your list and not 18
by Circle the Wagons88 on Dec 1, 2009 12:10 PM EST up reply actions
Looks like I caught that about the same time you did. :)
Buffalo Rumblings. On Twitter.
"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take. --Wayne Grezky" --Michael Scott
by Brian Galliford on Dec 1, 2009 12:11 PM EST up reply actions
Keep: Lindell, Wendling, Whitner, Florence, Corner, Poz, Kelsay, Bell, Fine, Fitz, Brohm, Lynch, Johnson
Cut/trade : ellis, McCargo, Hardy, Edwards, Parrish, McIntyre
I’m not saying the guys in the Keep list should start, but a lot of these guys at a minimum would serve as depth players. There is no pressure to cut players until the end of camp, so I don’t see a reason to give up on some of these 2nd year guys and special teamers right at the end of the season. There’s no reason to get rid of Lynch, running backs get hurt all of the time and it would be foolish to put all your eggs in one basket. Lynch is not prohibitive financially and could still be a huge performer with better blocking. Poz has improved as of late (significantly). No reason to cut Lindell.
Hardy hasn’t really done anything to make him worth holding onto. Ellis and McCargo have both been fairly invisible. Edwards is a bust. Parrish is not returning punts well enough to deserve a spot on the team as a punt return specialist. McIntyre is replaceable or expendable depending on the offensive scheme.
by Polish Lover on Dec 1, 2009 12:21 PM EST up reply actions
Why would you cut Hardy?
He hasn’t done anything because he wasn’t ready last year and he’s been battling back from his ACL injury ever since.
I don’t think he’ll ever be that great, but he deserves the chance to earn playing time next year after his first full healthy offseason in Buffalo. Plus, you cut him and we’ve got Evans and Johnson, and that’s it….
~K
"As the governor of Louisiana once said, the only way Chris Kelsay can lose his job is if he got caught in bed with a dead girl or a live boy."
Wouldn’t agree on cutting Hardy, and agree we should give him a chance, don’t know about him deserving one… he’s eh.
The knocks on Hardy are that he’s not that fast and now he’s coming back from an ACL. He’s supposed to be a red zone target so the question is can he still catch a jump ball? He was enticing when all we had were short guys catching balls, and after TO goes we might need that option again… not that its been an actual need most of this season.
I think Whitner has improved this year, and I really think the rotation of Whitner/Wilson/Byrd will only improve with time (I know Wilson is in his final year, but I think he stays).
Poz isn’t amazing, but I don’t see a definite upgrade coming and the entire LB core is a mess, so he stays as a result.
Florence has to stay, he’s had a really good year and though I doubt they will get rid of McKelvin, I think he will give him a good run for the starter for the second CB.
Corner is what he is, a #4 corner or at best a nickel corner, I think he will only get better at the nickel, and he’s not terrible as the #2 cb, he’s just not that good, haha.
Lindell definitely stays, you see a few teams out there still messing around with kickers at this point in the season, and with all the wind at the Ralph I think he is pretty good.
Hardy gets kept only because it takes so long to see what WR have.
Ellis is kept because they can play him on ST and they want to see what he can provide on D and for a certain DE being cut.
I think Bell has improved as the season went on, but the injuries… tackle is really up in the air for me, with Butler having injury problems of his own… I see Bell being kept, starter, I don’t know.
Fine cannot catch the ball and I just really only see him being a #3 TE, but I wouldn’t be suprised if he got cut.
Stevie’s career in Blo I think really depends on if Reed is kept around or not.
Brohm is a low salary and even if he never starts, he could be a decent backup – same with Fitz, though he stays for sure.
McIntyre I see staying, he sealed the inside for Freddy on his first TD and he has improved as the season went on. A few more rushing TD with him as the lead will definitely help his cause.
Kelsay, Lynch, McCargo, Edwards and Parrish don’t make it.
I was born in Buffalo, and NO, it's not a suburb of New York City
Whitner has improved
because he seems to be playing very little FS. Byrd and Wilson have played a lot of centerfield, which has kept Whitner out of a role he’s not very good at. Thankfully.
~K
"As the governor of Louisiana once said, the only way Chris Kelsay can lose his job is if he got caught in bed with a dead girl or a live boy."
Yeah, Whitner really is meant as a SS, he is more of a less thinking more hitting kind of safety…
I was born in Buffalo, and NO, it's not a suburb of New York City
Well, he did go to Ohio State
So could you really expect him to be a “thinking” player?
by Rocket Ship Science on Dec 1, 2009 5:12 PM EST up reply actions
yeah i wish he made more good football decisions like our stanford QB or our Yale head coach...
Jonathan Stupar won the Heisman…while playing in the NFL!
by JPH on Dec 1, 2009 8:08 PM EST up reply actions
Ellis is kept because they can play him on ST and they want to see what he can provide on D and for a certain DE being cut.
He’s been inactive all year because he has no clear role on special teams. He’s a goner.
McIntyre I see staying,
How many coaches even use a FB antmore?
"Play like hell and win." - Perry Fewell
Your daily source for Buffalo Bills information.
by MattRichWarren on Dec 2, 2009 2:42 PM EST up reply actions
but is he even really a FB anymore? he runs well and can even catch now!
Never put salt in your eyes
by J2 on Dec 2, 2009 4:37 PM EST up reply actions
yeah he's still a fullback.
if Mike Allstott was still a FB, and he was, then Corey Mcintyre is still a fullback.
Jonathan Stupar won the Heisman…while playing in the NFL!
by JPH on Dec 2, 2009 4:57 PM EST up reply actions
I’d keep Florence before Leo. Corner, Hardy and Trent need to just go away.
most of my posts get deleted :(
Tough to determine what to do with many of these guys
without knowing the schemes we’ll be running next year.
Let’s say a new HC brings a 3-4 with him. Kelsay, Ellis, McCargo, and Poz might all be gone then A 4-3 coach might keep them all.
With that said, based on keeping a scheme somewhat similar to what we have now….
Starters: Whitner (SS only), Florence (McKelvin has stunk at CB for this team), Lynch (not necessarily the starter, but is a 1a at worst), Poz, Lindell
Reserves: Hardy, Johnson, Fitzpatrick, Fine, Bell, Ellis
Reserves/Cuts (Could go either way): Kelsay, Parrish, Corner, Brohm, McCargo
Cuts: Edwards, Wendling, McIntyre
~K
"As the governor of Louisiana once said, the only way Chris Kelsay can lose his job is if he got caught in bed with a dead girl or a live boy."
THIS is sensible. Competent players don’t just come out of nowhere, which is why dropping Hardy and Poz doesn’t make sense. If TO goes next year, we still need at least 5 receivers. Parrish is probably gone next year. Reed has to re-sign. If we don’t keep the young players without having a good backup plan we’ve turned a deep position, which is what we have at WR, into a thin one.
Official ledge-talker-offer of the Buffalo Bills.
WR's
I can’t see why any new regime would get rid of two young receivers, especially two with very good size. Let them continue to grow and hopefully they make an impact next season.
I can’t see any new regime dumping those two or Poz. I could see Poz not fitting into a 3-4 all that well, but he could probably play ILB alongside a bigger player.
~K
"As the governor of Louisiana once said, the only way Chris Kelsay can lose his job is if he got caught in bed with a dead girl or a live boy."
in the words of wikipedia
“When it comes to the inside linebackers, one is generally a run stuffing player who is better able to handle offensive linemen and stop running backs when the offense features a running play, while the other is often a smaller, faster player who excels in pass coverage. However, the smaller or cover LB should also be able to scrape and plug running lanes decently.”
Of those two roles, I’d say Poz fits better as the smaller guy. It’s still not a good fit, but he’s definitely better in coverage than he is at handling offensive linemen, because he couldn’t be worse at something than he is at shedding blockers.
Jonathan Stupar won the Heisman…while playing in the NFL!
by JPH on Dec 1, 2009 2:04 PM EST up reply actions
Florence should be our starter over McKelvin, hes a better corner IMO. And McKelvin should be our nickle CB.
Poz needs to stay because hes a good football player but he needs to play the outside.
Hardys way too young to get rid of and hes shown he can play and I think watching TO this season should have helped him… with that being said I want tO back next year too.
Jackson & Lynch… in that order but Marshawn needs his touches.
I like the rotation at saftey… Byrd, Whit, and Wilson. Keeps them fresh.
Role players can stay or go… if they go we’ll find someone to fill their shoes.
Fitz is interesting… I dont want him to be our starter but the team plays much better with him so hang on to him if we’re still unsettled at QB next year he should start again.
"I don't know how to explain it but we seem to find eachother on the ice and make things happen... Yeah. Pass, shoot, score... Yeah. Pass.. Shoot.. And score."
If we go into next season with Fitz as the starter, the fans will do away with the new regime french revolution style.
Jonathan Stupar won the Heisman…while playing in the NFL!
by JPH on Dec 1, 2009 2:06 PM EST up reply actions
hahaha im not pushing for Fitz in ‘10… but I dont think it would be smart to let him go. HOPEFULLY we’ll have another QB ahead of Fitz on the depth carth… not named Trent Edwards.
"I don't know how to explain it but we seem to find eachother on the ice and make things happen... Yeah. Pass, shoot, score... Yeah. Pass.. Shoot.. And score."
I don’t think fans would revolt if we drafted a guy in the first round and went into the season with Fitz as the starter. They would understand.
"Play like hell and win." - Perry Fewell
Your daily source for Buffalo Bills information.
by MattRichWarren on Dec 2, 2009 2:44 PM EST up reply actions
I think they'd be ok with a guy who clearly wasn't the answer as long as at least someone thought he was a starter at some point in his career.
to me, starting Fitz next season would be waiving a white flag. I don’t think fans would like that. I’m no group psychologist though.
Jonathan Stupar won the Heisman…while playing in the NFL!
by JPH on Dec 2, 2009 3:31 PM EST up reply actions
We know Fitz is inconsistent. If the QB of the very-near future is on the roster I don’t think a lot of folks would be too irritated.
"Play like hell and win." - Perry Fewell
Your daily source for Buffalo Bills information.
by MattRichWarren on Dec 2, 2009 4:52 PM EST up reply actions
Two Running backs
You just need em, and neither have unreasonable contracts. You know how all of the sudden TO is shining, I expect the same things from Lynch as the season winds down. He made the pro bowl as a reserve for a reason last year.
-"...Dude, Marshawn, does Tom Brady get hyphy?"
-"What!!?"
You know who also made the Pro Bowl last year? A certain LT – Pro Bowl isn’t everything
I was born in Buffalo, and NO, it's not a suburb of New York City
S: Florence, Lindell, Paul Posluszny, Whitner
R: Fitzpatrick,Hardy, Fine, Bell
Cut/Traded- Lynch, Edwards, McIntyre,Brohm, Johnson, Parrish, Ellis, Kelsay (unless he restructures his contract), McCargo, Wendling
This space held in honor of Robert Royal known to his friends as "Sweet Cream Style Corn" March 11 2006- February 26, 2009
Why cut Brohm ????
Let’s see what he can do with another training camp under his belt. At worst he is the 3rd string QB. He has to be better than Hammy, right ?
"Jets crash and burn as Fewell's Bills expode offensively " - So let it be written...so let it be done.
starters, reserves, and cut/trade
Starters:
Bell (RT?)
Kelsay
Poz
Florence
Whitner
Lindell
Reserves:
Fitz
Brohm
Lynch
Hardy
St. Johnson
Fine
Ellis
Corner
Cut/Trade:
Edwards
McIntyre
Parrish
McCargo
Wendling
Toughest decisions – the QB situation. We’ll be getting another one for next year (right?), so you have to cut/trade one, and I’m hoping we might be able to get something (anything?) in return for Edwards. My expectations are not high for that, and I toyed with getting rid of either of the other two as well. Ellis was on the bubble, but he did have a good preseason game and there’s no reason to get rid of him, especially if Denney is a goner. Kelsay is an either/or prospect. At this point there is no way we can keep him around at his current salary and not have him starting. Either he is the clear-cut starter or we cut/trade him after bringing in another starting-caliber DE. Whitner was close to being on the reserves list as he is definitely being outplayed by Byrd and is playing pretty equal to George Wilson and Bryan Scott, who have really elevated their games. Finally, Bell was a tough decision, but I don’t think we’re going to be able to get two stud tackles that can outplay Bell right away, and if he doesn’t keep the LT job he’ll be shifted to RT.
A lot of moves need to be made, but we can’t do it all at once, especially in an uncapped year. Most of these crux guys can be kept around for depth and “seatwarmers”. Right now I don’t have any current starters on my cut/trade list though, and a handful probably will be gone for salary savings and to be made “examples” of.
the QB situation. We’ll be getting another one for next year (right?)
I think if the Bills don’t get a new QB next year, they will have more trouble selling tickets than they would have had they kept Jauron and gotten a new QB.
Jonathan Stupar won the Heisman…while playing in the NFL!
by JPH on Dec 1, 2009 2:08 PM EST up reply actions
My issue here is not being consumed by my bad-football-watching rage
For instance: James Hardy-
He’s stunk or been hurt his entire career in Buffalo. It’d be cathartic to release the kid, the same way it’d be cathartic to send Chris Kelsay over Niagra Falls in a barrel, but is either good for the future of the team? I don’t think so.
Jonathan Stupar won the Heisman…while playing in the NFL!
ha, nice
yeah, i wasn’t sure how to convey that sentence with a balance between sarcasm and terror.
Tall Order
The free agency market next year is abysmal, so whoever is trying to rebuild this team better not waste any of the ‘talent’ that is already on the roster. I would rather see Poz relegated to backup than cut. Same goes for a lot of players.
I don’t think that this team needs a total roster rebuild, and definitely not as much as it needs a philosophical overhaul.
Personnel wise, there are only a handful of obvious needs.
1. Quarterback of the future. – The most important position on the roster needs a new face.
2. O-Line depth. – I think a full off-season together would allow the current set of starters to become a very good offensive line. That said, almost no team ever makes it through the season without injuries in the trenches, so, three new starting caliber offensive linemen are necessary.
3. Linebackers. – Holding auditions. Anyone who can stack and shed or cover a tight end is welcome. You watch Jonathan Vilma go sideline to sideline and put Lawrence Maroney on his ass and you can vaguely remember what is was like before Takeo Spikes tore his achilles tendon.
Other than that, you do the best with what you’ve got. I don’t think that whoever comes in here is going to have to cut or trade many players.
Some Talent worth keeping there
Keepers and starters:
Lynch- is the future, he is 23, we better not trade him and have to waste another pick on a RB in a few years once Jackson is too old. Why not trade Jackson if you want to trade someone? He is older and won’t be around the league much longer. Although I’d rather have both of them??? you need two backs anyway.
Poz- has shown he is solid at MLB. Not spectacular, but def worth keeping around.
Florence- He has been one of the great DB found by Dick Jauron. Ill give Jauron that, he knows DB’s. Florence is much better than Mckelvin to this point. I believe Mckelvin will be able to learn a lot from Florence and Mcgee.
Lindell- 56 yarder, BAM!
Whitner- Is great in run support. It shows too. When he is in there, teams are not able to gash us as bad. He isn’t a ball hawk but he has had 2 picks this year. He is not spectacular or worth the 8th overall pick, but he is a solid starter, similar to poz.
Hardy- Once, T.O is gone, Hardy has big shoes to fill. I believe he has the talent to do that. Hopefully he is learning all he can from T.O. But i do hope T.O is around next year, he brings some excitement to buffalo.
Fitzpatrick- is on the brink to me. He is still young, so I don’t know why he gets the title of being a journyman or anything like that. He is smart, can make big throws, and has won us game. Get this guy a good line and maybe you won’t have to invest in a 1st round Q.B.
Reserves Worth Keeping:
Corner- has stepped in nicely for Mcgee. He did a pretty good job on Welker in the slot on MN football. Could one day be a starter in the league.
Wedling- worth keeping around for special teams
Chris Ellis- Has shown me a lot more than Maybin has. He has a quick step and can use his strength to move guys, unlike Maybin, who is apparently good enough to mock Joey Porter???
Brian Brohm- Would like to see him play, and is probably better than Trent as a back up. Trent does know the system but I do not want to see that scared check down guy ever hit the field for us again IMO.
Stevie J- Has talent and could be our third wide out in the future. Him, Lee and Hardy.
Parrish- Greatest punt returner in NFL history. Is electric. I just don’t want to see this guy go somewhere and tear it up like so many other Bills players have. I feel with the right coaching staff, he can be used. Look at Deshawn Jackson, they’re the same height and weight.
Welker had 12 catches in the MN game
Corner definitely didn’t do a good job there. Maybe tackling him, but not slowing him down. There’s no way that guy is a starter in the NFL. He’s not big enough, athletic enough or good enough.
What has Ellis shown? He hasn’t even played!!!
~K
"As the governor of Louisiana once said, the only way Chris Kelsay can lose his job is if he got caught in bed with a dead girl or a live boy."
ellis has looked good in preseason. and I said key word “could” be a starter for corner. He is def alright to have as a reserve or play the nickel. He has made some real nice plays on the ball and should have a bunch of INT’s but he can’t catch that well. Yes, Welker had 12 catches but he played him well. Welker has 12 catches a game cuz all he runs is a drag route on every play for 3 yards and makes most of his yards after the catch.
No WAY is anyone worth keeping around just for special teams. Don’t you see how much trouble that got us in this year? Because we kept special teamers around (corto, wendling), we are dangerously short at positions that usually staff special teams – lb and te
by quantumuprising on Dec 1, 2009 10:49 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
I’m not seeing the connection between keeping special teamers and not having depth. Buffalo’s depth doesn’t stink because they ran out of guys. It’s stinks because the guys who were number two on the depth chart aren’t good enough. I don’t understand how not keeping a guy like Wendling makes Marcus Buggs any better. And who the hell was Buffalo supposed to keep instead of a Wilson, Wendling or Corto who would have provided better depth?
Every team, literally every single NFL team, keeps guys who only play special teams. Not only is it not a problem, but guys like Wendling are part of the reason why Brian Moorman is so good and why we’ve had such successful returners. In the same way that great QBs are helped by WRs, great punters are helped by great gunners and great returners have good blockers.
I signed up for Second Life about a year ago. Back then my life was so great that I literally wanted a second one. In my Second Life I was also a paper salesman and I was also named Dwight. Absolutely everything was the same. Except I could fly. - Dwight Schrute
Most teams have special teams staffed by young, potential impact players. If we were more interested in keeping a tight end prospect and having him on special teams, then we’d have more than one talented tight end on sundays. If we were more interested in keeping young talent at linebacker instead of a STer, then we wouldve had more than 3 playable LBs this year and wouldn’t have to worry about signing free agents and moving a safety up to LB. In the past, your argument has MAYBE held water, because our special teams were so good. This year, I see nothing to be proud of.
by quantumuprising on Dec 2, 2009 9:39 AM EST up reply actions
You make it seem like Buffalo is cutting these young talented players or passing them over in the draft or FA to grab special teamers. To keep young talent, you need to have young talent. Buffalo doesn’t have young talent and it’s not exactly hanging around outside a Home Depot looking for work. The Pats have Larry izzo, Sam Aiken, Eric Alexander, Matt Slater and Pierre Woods all on the roster despite being vets who pretty much stink on O or D. The day that Buffalo cuts a Steve Johnson type to hang on to Jon Corto, then I’ll be right there with you, but when we’re cutting Ace Bowen, Pat Thomas or Copeland Bryan to keep a couple special teamers around, then it’s the right move.
I signed up for Second Life about a year ago. Back then my life was so great that I literally wanted a second one. In my Second Life I was also a paper salesman and I was also named Dwight. Absolutely everything was the same. Except I could fly. - Dwight Schrute
Here’s the other thing to consider. A lot of those depth guys you are mentioning aren’t going to see the field. Corto, Wendling, Jenkins – they see the field which is why they are active on Sundays. These OL that we had inactive early – Chambers, later Meredith – were never supposed to see the field like Bell didn’t see the field last year.
"Play like hell and win." - Perry Fewell
Your daily source for Buffalo Bills information.
by MattRichWarren on Dec 2, 2009 2:49 PM EST up reply actions
Here goes...
Starters: Poz (with talent around him, you will see a bonafide starting LB); Lindell, Hardy OR Johnson.
Reserves: Florence, Fitzpatrick, Brohm (depending on his performance next spring and summer), Hardy OR Johnson, Bell, Kelsay, Wendling, Corner
The Dick Jauron version of the K-Gun...the Squirt Gun.
dont unders
why do I keep reading that lynch will be traded or cut… that doesn’t make any since at all. I love freddy and I love the way he runs. I think the reason he has been better this year is because he’s a bit slower to hit the hole which allows the hole to be better. BUT is freddy not turning 28 at the end of this year. Do we not have a pro bowl running back in lynch? Yes he made it as a reserve but he ran for over a thousand yards in his first two years? YES! Both freddy and lynch need to rotate.
Steve johnson will stay because after owens is gone and reed he will be our number two guy
Edwards hasn’t been what we thought because he’s scared to throw the ball now and he’s scared to get hit. Which I don’t blame him. The hits he had on him this year and last year were pretty brutal. Hell get traded
Whitner has gotten much better. Almost a certain swagger he has this year. He has been injured yes but made some solid plays when healthy.
Poz will stay this is a year in which we all thought he would break out but that injury and a depleted lb core has hindered him. Hell stay of course.
I think Brian
should do another in the series called “Identifying the ‘crutch players’ on Buffalo’s roster” where we have to vote for most likely to be injured, worst injury and least timely injury.
This space held in honor of Robert Royal known to his friends as "Sweet Cream Style Corn" March 11 2006- February 26, 2009
Woods
probably wins 2 of three catagories. Worst and least timely
yeah his was horrible
This space held in honor of Robert Royal known to his friends as "Sweet Cream Style Corn" March 11 2006- February 26, 2009
Brian Brohm- Would like to see him play, and is probably better than Trent
I agree, it is time to put these young kids in there and see if they have the desire to over come their short comings to be NFL players. Remember back long time ago Minny Max Anderson, did more with desire than you would believe. People like Hardy and Maybin and Lynch need to show they want to play to win not just for a pay check.Look at Woods he loves the game, most of the others not so much
First, on Hardy and Johnson, it can’t be assumed that either of them will ever be decent players and it can’t be assumed that they won’t be great players very soon. That’s just the way WRs work. It’s a huge bust position where top prospects show promise and then never figure it out and it’s also a position where players in their 3rd or 4th year breakout from nowhere and have great seasons. Look at guys like Sidney Rice, Mike Sims-Walker and even Laurent Robinson looked like he might put a good season together before getting hurt.
Obviously, these two young WRs will be brought back into camp next year where they are no lock to make the team and no lock to not wind up with 800 yards receiving and a whole bunch of TDs.
The WRs aren’t the only young guys assured of a chance at making both the team and an impact on sundays next year. Every player listed who is on their rookie contract or will be an ERFA will at least be in camp. Even John Wendling is under contract for next season and won’t be cut before he gets a shot to impress a new staff. You don’t cut guys set to make the minimum before training camp starts. Whether or not these guys make the team will depend almost entirely on offseason additions and preseason performances.
The QBs will be interesting. Brohm is a lock to come back because he’s so cheap. Obviously the Bills have to cut ties with one of Edwards or Fitz, if not both. Personally, I think it’s best to just cut them both (maybe you could get a 7th rounder for one in a trade), bring in a new vet, draft a QB, bring in an undrafted QB and let those three and Brohm battle it out. Fitz has a shot to make me reconsider.
Roscoe has to go. McIntyre at least needs some competition next year.
I could take or leave McCargo. Very few teams actually rotate four DTs and I think Buffalo could be one of those teams if they actually wanted too because I think McCargo is solid in a reserve role. If Buffalo drafts a DT early, they won’t miss McCargo, but if they decide to ignore DT this year and address it in a big way next year instead, McCargo and Johnson make for pretty good depth behind a pair of pretty good starters.
I signed up for Second Life about a year ago. Back then my life was so great that I literally wanted a second one. In my Second Life I was also a paper salesman and I was also named Dwight. Absolutely everything was the same. Except I could fly. - Dwight Schrute
Oh, and Poz is a lock to make the team next year (unless they go 3-4) and considering that he’s, at worst, the 2nd best LB on this team and the best guy who didn’t go on IR with a torn up knee, Poz will be back starting next year. He might be the player currently on the roster with the most to gain or lose next year. He’s a guy who could be resigned and spend his entire career in Buffalo or could be moved/replaced by a high pick this offseason and on another roster in 2011.
I signed up for Second Life about a year ago. Back then my life was so great that I literally wanted a second one. In my Second Life I was also a paper salesman and I was also named Dwight. Absolutely everything was the same. Except I could fly. - Dwight Schrute
Agreed about WR's
If Malcolm Floyd can become a solid starter, then Hardy definitely can.
~K
"As the governor of Louisiana once said, the only way Chris Kelsay can lose his job is if he got caught in bed with a dead girl or a live boy."
Me too.... and Rice is playing out of his freaking mind this year!
"Jets crash and burn as Fewell's Bills expode offensively " - So let it be written...so let it be done.
McCargo
Totally agree. Everyone seems so adamant to see him go, but I think we have bigger problems to shore up than 4th DT. I’m not saying he’s great or anything, but he doesn’t have to be at this point.
Ryan Fitzpatrick, QB – I think he’s on his way to earning a chance to keep the back-up job next year. But, he’s nothing more than that – a back-up. Reserve at best
Trent Edwards, QB – I still want to know what he did to be so villified here. With the overall lack of talent at this position in the NFL, I think you have to keep him around. He’s not that bad, is he? Reserve
Brian Brohm, QB – We know absolutely nothing about him. He’s still a step up from Hamdan though. Reserve-ish, cut-ish. I guess it’s his call. Not cool to start your career out in GB saying you made bad first impressions.
Marshawn Lynch, RB – I’ve been on record as saying we should try and trade him. But I’d also be perfectly content having him back. He does have some unique talent. If you could get a nice pick(s) for him, great. If he comes back next season a little more “growed” up, then I’m good with that too. Reserve/Starter/Season Long Suspension
Corey McIntyre, FB - “Run-of-the-mill player.” Is there a nicer way of saying “you aren’t any good” than that? Cut
James Hardy, WR/Steve Johnson, WR – I would definitely be bringing these guys back. Chances are they are both reserves next season at best, but I think they deserve the chance to earn those back-up roles. Who knows – one or the other might turn out to be decent after all. Reserve/Reserve
Derek Fine, TE – He might have Aaron Merz’ed me. I was hoping he’d be better than what he is. Still, he gets a chance to come back, but in a back-up role only (if he can stay healthy enough). Reserve
Demetrius Bell, OT – I still want this kid to be good, and I think he still can. Hopefully, he’ll come back soon, and finish out the season strong. I think it’s up to him whether or not he gets a chance next year. Another strong off season is key for him, no matter where he is. Starter/Reserve
Chris Kelsay, DE – Good season so far or not, I’m okay with letting him go. I actually think he might have some value trade wise. So far it looks like next year won’t be capped, which in theory suggests there won’t be a whole lot of FA movement. But that doesn’t affect trades (at least I think). Just getting something for nothing here would be good in my book. Trade/Cut
Roscoe Parrish, WR – See directly above, without the “good season so far”. Trade/Cut
Chris Ellis, DE/John McCargo, DT – Just time to admit you made a mistake and move on from these two clowns. I’ve been a “give Big John one more chance” guy for too long now. Cut/Cut
Paul Posluszny, LB – This is an easy guy to keep. He might never be the guy we hoped for, but he’s not a bad football player. His fate will rest in whatever the next defensive scheme calls for. But even if a new regime comes in and overhauls the whole D, he’s probably still safe for the remainder of his contract. Starter
Drayton Florence, CB – No brainer here. He’s a keeper. I’m a big fan of extending guys you think are good, often to a fault. But I think BG made a previous comment that the team needs to think about extending him. I’d be good with that. Starter
Reggie Corner, CB – Ehh. Needs a ton of work. A ton. Invite him back, and don’t be surprised if someone else is wearing #27 next year. Didn’t he have a good camp? What happened? Reserve
Donte Whitner, S – If an 8th overall pick gets kicked to the curb, that tells you no one is safe. I still think he stays though. Wilson/Scott aren’t the answer long term. The team can’t afford to invest resources (FA, draft) on the secondary. You could do a lot worse than Whitner & Byrd. Starter
John Wendling, S – Sorry John. Cut
Rian Lindell, K – I think he’s kind of underrated. I don’t think he’s nearly as inconsistent as a lot of folks think. Starter
by krytime on Dec 1, 2009 3:43 PM EST reply actions 1 recs
I agree with most of this. Obviously we can only keep either Trent or Ryan as a back-up, but I’m pretty ok with either. I still have high hopes for Marshawn, I think he’ll have a bounce back year with an improved O-Line next year (I say improved simply because if nothing else the guards will have a bit more experience and hopefully we can get some real tackles).
Depending on salary (I don’t know what his is) I might keep Ellis, McBusto can head for greener pastures.
I’m still not sure if I would Trade/Cut Roscoe, but I could probably be convinced. I like having him returning punts though, despite the Cleveland game. You might be underestimating Scott a bit but a 3 safety rotation sounds good to me. Everything else I think you’re spot on.
"We want to win immediately. To say you're building is an incomplete sentence. ... You're building for a future coach and general manager."
-Marv Levy
Ellis: 2010: $470,000, 2011: $555,000
McCargo: 2010: $685,000
That’s cheaper than I thought for McCargo. They’d be silly to get rid of him at that price.
"Play like hell and win." - Perry Fewell
Your daily source for Buffalo Bills information.
by MattRichWarren on Dec 2, 2009 2:54 PM EST up reply actions
What? When did it become silly to get rid of cheap, fringe players? How is cutting McCargo any sillier than cutting Ashlee Palmer?
Cheap players are easier to get rid of. Cutting Aaron Schobel? That would be silly.
Buffalo Rumblings. On Twitter.
"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take. --Wayne Grezky" --Michael Scott
by Brian Galliford on Dec 2, 2009 3:21 PM EST up reply actions
OK fine. It’s silly to cut cheap players that I think can contribute and is worth the money they are paying him. Better? :-)
"Play like hell and win." - Perry Fewell
Your daily source for Buffalo Bills information.
by MattRichWarren on Dec 2, 2009 4:53 PM EST up reply actions
Yes, that makes more sense. I think you’re way off on McCargo, though.
Buffalo Rumblings. On Twitter.
"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take. --Wayne Grezky" --Michael Scott
by Brian Galliford on Dec 2, 2009 5:42 PM EST up reply actions
That’s fine. I could take him or leave him. He’s not someone I would ever try to defend.
"Play like hell and win." - Perry Fewell
Your daily source for Buffalo Bills information.
by MattRichWarren on Dec 2, 2009 5:51 PM EST up reply actions
yup,
this is almost the same in outcome and reasoning to my list above. I can see that you also struggled with deciding which QB’s to keep. I guess it all depends on who we bring in to coach the team and then which way we lean towards in FA or the draft. Also, I disagree about cutting/trading both Kelsay and Ellis. I think we keep at least one unless we’re switching to a 3-4 or something.
by k8 on Dec 1, 2009 5:13 PM EST up reply actions
Nice job krytime...rec'd
My only concern is with Edwards. He has to grow a new pair, or maybe Jauron will mail his original pair back to him.
"Jets crash and burn as Fewell's Bills expode offensively " - So let it be written...so let it be done.
I’ve never been a fan of cheap jokes at Jauron’s expense, but that was hilarious.
I signed up for Second Life about a year ago. Back then my life was so great that I literally wanted a second one. In my Second Life I was also a paper salesman and I was also named Dwight. Absolutely everything was the same. Except I could fly. - Dwight Schrute
Dont give up on Lynch People
Fred Jackson is playing excellent, and I couldnt be more happy with his production. I also couldnt me more upset with Lynchs lack of Production. However, he is a pretty good back in this league, and a pretty good blocker in the pass game. I still think he has some maturing to do, but he does have a nose for the goal line which I think he has shown in the past, extremely tough to bring down. Bottom line, you need a good offensive line to have a successful run game, and now in the NFL you need 2 backs who can do it all. Lynch and Jackson/Jackson and Lynch….. either way I am happy with it.
for some of us – it’s not about giving up on him. it’s if he can help us address more important needs like QB or O and D lines from his compensation
Never put salt in your eyes
by J2 on Dec 1, 2009 4:31 PM EST up reply actions
Derek Shoeman
He is decent, I’d rather have him than Fine personally.
Here's mine
Starters:
M. Lynch – 1b to F. Jackson’s 1a – needs to lose the extra pounds he put on before the season to find the burst he had
C. Kelsey – Maybin needs to show more to bump him from starter
D. Whitner - SS seems to be his spot
R. Lindell – Too reliable inside of 40, there are not 32 reliable kickers from inside the 40 in the league now
P . Posluszny – Strength of the weak linebacking core on roster
Backups:
R. Fitzpatrick – makes good decisions, has bad accuracy. Could be much worse as a backup
B. Brohm – good prospect as 3rd QB
J. Hardy – Bills haven’t given him enough time to show progress yet
D. Fine – good enough blocker to keep as 2nd or 3rd TE
D. Bell – could be starting at RT if enough O line help isn’t found.
D. Florence – should give McKelvin run at 2nd CB, if not starting as 2nd CB
R. Corner – could do much worse at 4 CB, always seems to be around the ball
Cut/Trade
T Edwards – cant play QB scared, needs a change of scenery
C. McIntry – can find a better FB at good value late in the draft
R. Parrish – too much money for a return specialist who tries too hard when he gets a chance at the ball. No prospects at WR.
S. Johnson – probably shouldn’t be on the cut list, but new regime won’t value him as much as the current one does (even though hes inactive a lot)
C. Ellis – Again probably shouldn’t be here, but a new regime wont care where he was drafted
J. McCargo – Need bigger DT’s and hes our least productive DT
J. Wendling – Could stay based on ST play, but needs more than the ST list to be valuable enough to new regime.
There is my list. I’m trying to be more realistic and account for what our roster will have next year too.
PS – first post on SB Nation
Haven't read the other comments yet, but here are my two cents...
I’ll give you the list of players that I’d cut outright this off-season, and then a list of players that I’d keep for one year to seen what they can do, and then finally the list of players that I hope are kept long term.
Cuts: Trent Edwards (still has potential, but not on this team, better cut him now and wish him luck), Corey Mcintyre, Roscoe Parish (he wants out anyways), Chris Kelsey (cost to much to be so average), Chris Ellis, John McCargo, John Wendling.
- The ones with no explination are excess lugage right now, they should have been cut last summer.
P.S. Cutting Edwards is very hard for be because I love the kid, but he no longer has a place on this team.
One Year Keepers: Brian Brohm (see if he develops as a project QB), James Hardy and Steve Johnson (both need to produce or they are gone in my mind), Reggie Corner (if he improves he can stay, if not we can easily replace him), Donte Whitner (i’ll defend Whitner to the end, but he needs to show consistency and more improvement if he wants to stay).
Keepers: Ryan Fitzpatick (solid backup, may even be a short term starter for us), Marshawn Lynch (just because he’s having a bad year doesn’t mean that we should send him packing), Derek Fine (solid backup and STer), Demetrius Bell (I have no doub that he will keep improving, hoewever I’d like to see him move to the right side), Paul Posluznie (I don’t think that his MLB position is safe, but we’ve all been calling for his move to OLB for a while now, I’m hoping that the next regime makes the move happen), Drayton Florence (the guy has been lights out for us this year, he’s proven that he deserves to stay), Ryan Lindell (solid Kicker, we should keep him until his contract expires).
Well there you have it, thats my list.
by CanadianBillsFan on Dec 1, 2009 5:19 PM EST reply actions
lynch
should be a deffinate keeper. solid nasty runner, who is having a bad year because of his stupidity in the off season. let’s hope he learns he is not irreplaceable, and when he gets the start next year which he will, plays up to the level we know he can.
Later Losman!
Well there you have it
I am impressed by all the knowledgeable people here. One thing I notice is how little Maybin is discussed. I admit i feel bad about this kid. He received very bad advice and it may well have cost him his career, at least in Buffalo. His first mistake was in leaving school, then to hold out was idiocy. But it would be good to see what he can do as a linebacker, he never will be a good DE. Poz was one of the most heralded players out of college and Joe Patterno said that he was about the best he ever coached. That alone gives him another year. Most of all Buffalo needs to keep their players of IR.
Maybin is going to be around for at least three more years because of his contract. We already discussed him.
"Play like hell and win." - Perry Fewell
Your daily source for Buffalo Bills information.
by MattRichWarren on Dec 2, 2009 2:56 PM EST up reply actions
Is Youbouty still on the team? If so he should be the first to go.
I can’t believe anyone here would want to cut Poz, he gets better every game and if I am not mistaken he has less than two years actual playing time. Get a good OLB to compliment him and I think he will shine. Keep Fitz and dump Trent, no brainer. Only a fool would consider getting rid of Lindell. Kickers are a lot harder to find than you might think, ask the redskins if you don’t believe me. It would be interesting to compare how opposing kickers do compared to Lindell at the Ralph. I would bet my house Lindell comes out on top over the years. Trade Kawika, he is les than average at best.
agreed on Lindell and Kawika...
"I don't know how to explain it but we seem to find eachother on the ice and make things happen... Yeah. Pass, shoot, score... Yeah. Pass.. Shoot.. And score."
Youboty is a free agent at the end of the year and therefore not eligible for the list. He’s not going to be back.
"Play like hell and win." - Perry Fewell
Your daily source for Buffalo Bills information.
by MattRichWarren on Dec 2, 2009 2:57 PM EST up reply actions
Although he's not on this list...
…I really like the way George Wilson has been playing over the last month or so. What is his contract status and what does the list think about his long-term prospects?
"I could have conquered Europe, all of it, but I had women in my life." - King Henry II of England
Wilson is currently playing on a one year, one million dollar contract. He was a RFA last offseason so if the Uncapped year happens he will be a RFA again. If there is a miraculous salary cap he will be a UFA.
"Play like hell and win." - Perry Fewell
Your daily source for Buffalo Bills information.
by MattRichWarren on Dec 2, 2009 3:00 PM EST up reply actions
My Take...
Trend Edwards – QB – Reserve.
I loved this kid coming out of Stanford. He reminded me a lot of Losman except the fact that he doesn’t over hold the ball. Maybe that’s why he was known as a “check down” player. But that’s his GAME!! There is nothing wrong with a dump pass here and there to his RB – good QB’s will find open guys, and if it’s in the backfield so be it. I say either keep him or trade him and draft a high QB next year.
Ryan Fitzpatrick – QB – Reserve.
He will be a great QB back-up just like Van Pelt was throughout his years in Buffalo.
Brian Brohm – QB – Reserve.
No idea how good this guy is on game day. I’d say give him a shot one of these days; maybe the last 3 games? We have nothing to lose but try out guys for next season anyways. And if he actually looks good, we might not have to draft a QB!!
Marshawn Lynch – RB – Starter.
No way we let him go. He had a bad year so far; it was due to a bad off-season in gaining an extra 20 pounds and getting in trouble with the law. Hopefully he’s learned his leason and this will come to pass.
Corey McIntyre – FB – Cut.
We would not need McIntyre anymore. I wonder why Buffalo hasn’t implemented both Lynch and Jackson from the backfield on a lot of plays? I’d say give the ball to your best players and both those guys will be hard to handle. Poison from the left side or the right side – you pick!!
James Hardy – WR – Reserve.
I hope he comes to form in the coming year. I honestly believe that he’s not NFL starter quality. Yes, maybe red zone threat and that’s about it. He will never be an every down player with height like Fitzgerald. Why Fitzgerald? When you’re drafted that high, there’s expectations and that’s mine.
Roscoe Parrish – WR – Reserve.
He is in demand but probably only on special teams. Yeah, he’s worth just that one spot.
Steve Johnson – WR – Cut.
If the coaches loves this guys so much as to keep him, where has he been? I haven’t seen a glimpse of him at all. Hope he doesn’t end up like Sam Aiken is on the Patriots.
Derek Fine – TE – Cut.
We have a good blocker in Derek Schouman and a good reciever in Shawn Nelson. Plus, Stupar has been good/decent in his time. One of the Derek’s has to go.
Demetrius Bell – OT – Reserve.
I say reserve because I believe he can man both Tackle positions. In that sense, i don’t believe he’s extremely good at either or but he can get the job done. Who knows, maybe next off season he developes more and actually becomes a starter.
Chris Kelsay – DE – Cut.
I love Kelsay, I really do. The only thing is he’s just average. He is a good backup rotation but his salary would really not help that cause.
Chris Ellis – DE – Reserve.
I like this kid coming out of Virginia Tech. I believe he’s better than what we’ve seen. Give the kid a shot, maybe something will unfold.
John McCargo – DT – Cut.
I had high hopes for him. I thought he was going to be a difference maker and yet I see nothing.
Paul Posluszny – LB – Starter.
He’s starter quality. Now only if we can find another good OLB to help cover a little more.
Drayton Florence – CB – Starter.
I have to say that he’s currently ahead of the game on McKelvin. Not that McKelvin is not good, because he’s good, but Florence has that veteran stance. He knows what he’s doing out there and that will give McKelvin time to learn the Nickel and rotation on the CB’s.
Reggie Corner – CB – Reserve.
He’s a nice Nickel/Dime CB in my eyes; mostly Dime. He’s got decent coverage and speed for guys who’s a little smaller from inside the slots.
Donte Whitner – SS – Starter.
Since Byrd has arrived, he’s been doing what he’s doing. Yes, there’s nothing explosive yet, but next year when they mesh it’ll be a great tandem with Scott and Wilson coming in as reserves.
John Wendling – SS – Reserve.
He’s been great on ST this season. Yes it hasn’t been the greatest but they’re trying to move on the new ST guidelines and a lot of new players.
Rian Lindell – K – Starter.
Who in the right mind would let him go? Definitely a keeper until he’s can’t walk anymore.
He will never be an every down player
pretty sweeping statement when we havent seen him play more than half a rookie season.
"you just have to know there's always going to be adversity. None of these games are going to be easy. Nothing will be given to us" - Paul Posluszny
by poz on Dec 2, 2009 5:27 AM EST up reply actions
that was meant in regards to your statement about Hardy
"you just have to know there's always going to be adversity. None of these games are going to be easy. Nothing will be given to us" - Paul Posluszny
by poz on Dec 2, 2009 5:28 AM EST up reply actions
regarding your take on Trent
He reminded me a lot of Losman
how? I’m pretty sure part of his appeal is that he was the anti-losman.
Maybe that’s why he was known as a "check down" player. But that’s his GAME!! There is nothing wrong with a dump pass here and there to his RB – good QB’s will find open guys, and if it’s in the backfield so be it.
If Fitz has shown us anything, it’s that people are open downfield.
Jonathan Stupar won the Heisman…while playing in the NFL!
by JPH on Dec 2, 2009 3:26 PM EST up reply actions
I would gut the front 7 and switch to 3-4
I’d say bye-bye to Kelsay, Denney and Schobel (sorry, I like him too but he’s too small to play 3-4 end and he’s not getting younger).
Move Kyle Williams and Stroud to end. Bring in a legitimate NT.
Move Maybin to ROLB (where he obviously belongs), bring Mitchell inside with Poz and get another OLB on the other side in FA.
Leave the d-backs as close to the way they are as possible, depth and all.
in a salary cap era, no single unit (offense or defense) should be consistently sub-average for such a long stretch.
Has everyone really given up on Lynch?
I’ve seen a few Jackson 1a, Lynch 1b posts… there’s no way we can let that guy go. We won’t get enough back via trade, and he’s got the ability. He might not be able to carry a bad team on his back, but hopefully the new staff lights a fire under his butt and gets him playing well. I recently watched some old youtube of Lynch in college, he hasn’t played like that this year. But I think he still can.
Poz – Has to be a starter. We’re hurting for depth as it is. Even if we switch to a 3-4, there’s nothing wrong with having him on the inside.
Those two are two young and talented to be done.
Schmucks don't make it to the Pro Bowl... except Jason Peters!
by Run Thurmal Run! on Dec 2, 2009 12:06 AM EST reply actions
if only
Oakland didn’t have a decent stable of RBs Lynch to Oakland would net us all the king’s horses and all the king’s men
This space held in honor of Robert Royal known to his friends as "Sweet Cream Style Corn" March 11 2006- February 26, 2009
Problem is that good running backs are a dime a dozen in the NFL. It’s only the great ones that will get you a good return on the trade market. And i don’t see anyone here calling Lynch a great RB, so we might as well keep him and have a good 1-2 punch.
by CanadianBillsFan on Dec 2, 2009 10:03 AM EST up reply actions
•Trent Edwards, QB – Cut – the more I hear people in the know saying he’s lost all respect in the locker room, the less I even want him around. Many of you know I was one of his biggest supporters before.
•Ryan Fitzpatrick, QB – Reserve
•Brian Brohm, QB – Reserve unless a QB is drafted in 2010
•Marshawn Lynch, RB – Starter in a two-back system
•Corey McIntyre, FB – Cut
•James Hardy, WR – Keep – Reserve/Developmental (wouldn’t be sad if he left)
•Roscoe Parrish, WR – Cut
•Steve Johnson, WR – Keep – Reserve/Developmental (Wouldn’t be sad if he left)
•Derek Fine, TE – Keep – Reserve
•Demetrius Bell, OT – Keep – Reserve at swing tackle at minimum
•Chris Kelsay, DE – Cut – bloated salary, may stay since Ellis and Maybin have not shown anything
•Chris Ellis, DE – Cut
•John McCargo, DT – Keep – Reserve or Cut to save a few hundred k
•Paul Posluszny, LB – Keep – Starter
•Drayton Florence, CB – Keep – Starter/Third CB
•Reggie Corner, CB – Keep – Reserve
•Donte Whitner, S – Keep – Starter at SS
•John Wendling, S – Cut
•Rian Lindell, K – Keep (56 yards????)
"Play like hell and win." - Perry Fewell
Your daily source for Buffalo Bills information.
To reorder it
Starters:
Lynch, Poz, Florence, Whitner, Lindell
Reserves:
Fitzpatrick, Brohm, Hardy, Steve Johnson, Fine, Bell, McCargo, Corner
Cut:
Edwards, McIntyre, Parrish, Kelsay, Ellis, Wendling
"Play like hell and win." - Perry Fewell
Your daily source for Buffalo Bills information.
by MattRichWarren on Dec 2, 2009 3:04 PM EST up reply actions
the more I hear people in the know saying he’s lost all respect in the locker room, the less I even want him around
ya – that’s huge
Never put salt in your eyes
by J2 on Dec 2, 2009 4:38 PM EST up reply actions
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