Status updates on several Bills free agent targets
by Brian Galliford on Feb 25, 2009 12:15 AM EST
in News
84 comments
We are now officially less than 48 hours away from the start of the 2009 NFL free agent signing period. Over the next two days, action will really start heating up as players sign tenders, make decisions on re-signing with their current teams and get ready to hit the open market. For the Buffalo Bills and several of their current and potential targets, news is already trickling in.
Current Targets
- On Tuesday, former Jaguars running back Fred Taylor visited One Bills Drive. Today he'll travel east to spend the day visiting the Patriots. Buffalo and New England are, as of this moment, considered the only two potential suitors for the 33-year-old veteran, but there is growing speculation that Taylor may not make it out of Foxboro without a deal.
- Joining Taylor in a tour of Buffalo's facilities was former Patriots wideout Kelley Washington. One of the league's better special teams players, Washington stated his intrigue with Buffalo's league-renowned special teams units. Washington has several other visits scheduled, and will make those visits over the next week or so.
- Some of the most valuable free agents on the market are Buffalo's own players, and cornerback Jabari Greer certainly fits that description. The Bills are expected to up their offer of $4 million per season sometime this week; the Bills offered Greer a 5-year deal worth $20 million over the weekend. Buffalo's latest offer is not expected to keep Greer from testing the open market, however.
- Speculation that the Bills will actively pursue Texans restricted free agent tight end Owen Daniels continues to ramp up. Houston has until Thursday to tender Daniels; it's expected that Houston will either offer a $2.2 million tender (with first-round compensation) or a $2.8 million tender (with first- and third-round compensation). The level of compensation will dictate the level of aggression with which the Bills pursue Daniels, but we can confirm that the three-year veteran is regarded very highly by Buffalo's front office.
Potential Targets
- There's an interesting situation brewing in Baltimore. Center Jason Brown is widely regarded as the best free agent center this season, but as it stands right now, the chances of Brown actually hitting the open market are just 50/50. Ray Lewis is the key - if he stays in Baltimore, the Ravens will turn their attention to Brown; if Lewis leaves, they'll spend more time (and money) getting LB Bart Scott re-signed, allowing Brown to hit the open market. If Brown ends up seeking a new employer, the Miami Dolphins are expected to pursue the young veteran heavily.
- Meanwhile, the consensus second-best free agent center, Minnesota's Matt Birk, is currently moving closer to re-signing with the Vikings. Birk is a Minneapolis native who has spent his entire career with the Vikings, and it's highly likely that a new deal will be wrapped up prior to Thursday night/Friday morning. If Birk re-signs, expect names like Jeff Saturday (who likes Pittsburgh), Brad Meester and even Geoff Hangartner to become hotter names on the open market.
- There are whispers (and right now, they're only whispers and difficult to confirm) that the Bills are intrigued with the athletic prowess of Dolphins free agent linebacker Channing Crowder. Reports indicate that Miami has informed Crowder to test his market value, and Crowder isn't thrilled about it. The young veteran has undoubtedly overvalued himself in terms of potential dollars, but he's got a lot of ability. He's a name to keep an eye on.
- The Kansas City Chiefs released veteran QB Damon Huard on Wednesday (along with several other veterans). In an off-season that features very little in the way of proven and reliable veteran quarterbacks, Huard's name may vault to the top of Buffalo's list of potential backups to starter Trent Edwards. Huard is a heady veteran that doesn't make a lot of mistakes, and he's still solid enough to win football games. Even at age 35, he's a far smaller risk than other candidates such as Rex Grossman and Kyle Boller. There is already a strong feeling that the Bills will look to secure Huard's services. In order to do so, however, they might need to talk him out of retirement, as many feel that's the route he'll eventually choose.
0 recs |
84 comments
|
Email
Print
Comments
Daniels
I’m kinda surprised by the apparant “intense” interest. I like Owens, but to potentailly offer a first round pick (or more) for him, seems very uncharacteristic of this organization.
just for the record, I’m all about going after Housh once free agency begins and making a strong, competitive offer (i.e. 3-4 year deal worth $21-30 million with $14 guaranteed). . Yes, he’s 33, but that’s perfect for Buffalo. He could play out his career over the next couple of years and give young guys like Hardy and Johnson (and whoever else they decide to add via draft in the next few of years) time to really devleop and learn. In 3 or 4 years TJ’s hefty contract is off the books, just in time to start talking contract extension with the young bucks.
John I.
by jri111 on Feb 25, 2009 1:05 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
It’d also be ridiculously stupid to give up a 1st rounder for Daniels.
~K
"I’m Kurupt with Buffalo Rumblings. I am worth hundreds!"
by Kurupt on Feb 25, 2009 1:57 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Does that make it more or less likely that the Bills would do it?????????
Bad boys, bad boys whatcha gonna do? Whatcha gonna do
when they come for you?
by Joe P. on Feb 25, 2009 9:27 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I would rather use the 11th overall pick on Pettigrew then Daniels.
The time has come for someone to put his foot down. And that foot is me.
by sireric on Feb 25, 2009 9:28 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Boy, I wouldn’t. I’ve been in general agreement with you on your stance on tight ends, but Daniels is a better player than Pettigrew. And I even really like Pettigrew.
But if it’s me, I’m not spending #11 on either TE, so I guess my opinion there doesn’t really matter.
Buffalo Rumblings - all you care to know about the Buffalo Bills and more
by Brian Galliford on Feb 25, 2009 9:35 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
- pick and a TE, PASS. IF they must use it on a guy, I think Daniels is the better spend. Pettigrew is unproven, though cheaper, i’m sure.
"Buffalo Bills Football 2009 (sponsored by Labatt): A Future as Uncertain as the Beer You’re Drinking"
"It's not delivery, it's DiGiorgio!"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Feb 25, 2009 9:38 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
My stance is that if I’m giving the Texans the Bills first rounder for Daniels then it’s basically a question of who would you rather have.
Pettigrew is younger and would cost less.
The time has come for someone to put his foot down. And that foot is me.
by sireric on Feb 25, 2009 9:39 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Daniels only has 3 years on his wheels. I think you take a proven young vet over a rookie TE.
"Buffalo Bills Football 2009 (sponsored by Labatt): A Future as Uncertain as the Beer You’re Drinking"
"It's not delivery, it's DiGiorgio!"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Feb 25, 2009 9:41 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Depend on the vet and the rookie. Technically Robert Royal is a proven vet. (not saying Daniels is Royal, just making a point)
The time has come for someone to put his foot down. And that foot is me.
by sireric on Feb 25, 2009 9:44 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Royal’s proven little though. That’s why the team’s in this predicament! I don’t know if Owens is worth a 1st. Now Witten, he’s someone I think a 1st-round pick is worth giving up for.
"Buffalo Bills Football 2009 (sponsored by Labatt): A Future as Uncertain as the Beer You’re Drinking"
"It's not delivery, it's DiGiorgio!"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Feb 25, 2009 9:50 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I honestly believe that Pettigrew could be a player like Witten. So I agree.
The time has come for someone to put his foot down. And that foot is me.
by sireric on Feb 25, 2009 9:55 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Witten’s a tried-and-true throwback-type player. I love his game.
"Buffalo Bills Football 2009 (sponsored by Labatt): A Future as Uncertain as the Beer You’re Drinking"
"It's not delivery, it's DiGiorgio!"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Feb 25, 2009 10:00 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I like Owens, but to potentailly offer a first round pick (or more) for him, seems very uncharacteristic of this organization.
Uncharacteristic? Yes. Unlikely? Yes. No one is saying they’d offer a first if that’s the compensation. All that’s known is that they really like him.
Buffalo Rumblings - all you care to know about the Buffalo Bills and more
by Brian Galliford on Feb 25, 2009 6:35 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Unless…and i’m just talking here (so don’t think i’m actually in support of this) – they trade Peters to someone for a 1st, AND ignore the need to redraft a new LT OR take a risky flyer on Andre Smith in the 2nd.
I do still wonder if they feel they can afford to keep Jason Peters, and wonder if some of the posturing was based on that.
"Buffalo Bills Football 2009 (sponsored by Labatt): A Future as Uncertain as the Beer You’re Drinking"
"It's not delivery, it's DiGiorgio!"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Feb 25, 2009 9:30 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
There’s very little chance that Peters gets dealt from what I’m hearing.
Buffalo Rumblings - all you care to know about the Buffalo Bills and more
by Brian Galliford on Feb 25, 2009 9:35 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
so
they are going to just bring him back and no extension? I think that’s a smart move if he will report without a new deal. Get one more year out of the guy
MARVelous
by MARVelous on Feb 25, 2009 9:38 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
No one’s sure what the plan of attack is, but the theory is that they’ll try to extend him at some point.
Buffalo Rumblings - all you care to know about the Buffalo Bills and more
by Brian Galliford on Feb 25, 2009 9:38 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
There’s very little chance that Peters gets dealt from what I’m hearing.
anything specific?
Oh. Uh, will you hold my wallet for me while I take the test, please? There's a thousand dollars in there... or maybe there isn't. Know what I mean?
by J2 on Feb 25, 2009 9:39 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
LOL is that not specific enough? :)
Buffalo Rumblings - all you care to know about the Buffalo Bills and more
by Brian Galliford on Feb 25, 2009 9:48 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
That would be great news, if they find a way to lock him up.
"Buffalo Bills Football 2009 (sponsored by Labatt): A Future as Uncertain as the Beer You’re Drinking"
"It's not delivery, it's DiGiorgio!"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Feb 25, 2009 9:42 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Damon Huard is now my number 1 choice.......
Jon Kitna is 1A
12/19/08 - Thank you KLJ for coming into my life.
by norcaliangelsfan on Feb 25, 2009 1:45 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
But has Kitna been released yet?
~K
"I’m Kurupt with Buffalo Rumblings. I am worth hundreds!"
by Kurupt on Feb 25, 2009 1:57 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
give it time......
12/19/08 - Thank you KLJ for coming into my life.
by norcaliangelsfan on Feb 25, 2009 2:04 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
there may be another way to upgrade DT other than Haynesworth
Shaun Rogers apparently does not like Mangini and is asking to be released. Anyone here willing to throw Rogers in the middle with Stroud?
If we can finagle DE Brian Orakpo and C Alex Mack I will not complain about this team for a whole season. I promise.
by poz on Feb 25, 2009 2:55 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
The Bills made a play for him last year, so I would have to say yes!
But given Rogers’ motivational issues, it would have to be a contract with lots of performance escalator.
Bad boys, bad boys whatcha gonna do? Whatcha gonna do
when they come for you?
by Joe P. on Feb 25, 2009 9:30 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
If that’s the caveat, then there’s little chance of Rogers coming here. I highly doubt he gets out of Cleveland, though.
Buffalo Rumblings - all you care to know about the Buffalo Bills and more
by Brian Galliford on Feb 25, 2009 9:36 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
plus
we can’t afford to give up picks for Rogers…..unless we could get him for a 4th….but a 3rd and a 5th which what he was gotten for is not realistic for us
MARVelous
by MARVelous on Feb 25, 2009 9:37 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
And, in reality, he out-performed that 3&5 tag last year. He was outstanding.
There’s no way Mangini lets him leave. He’s too valuable. They’ll let him sit before he’s released or traded.
Buffalo Rumblings - all you care to know about the Buffalo Bills and more
by Brian Galliford on Feb 25, 2009 9:38 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Forget a free agent DT. The Bills should draft Fili Moala because he is the cousin of Ngata. That way Bills fans around here can get their fix with Ngata through his cousin.
The time has come for someone to put his foot down. And that foot is me.
by sireric on Feb 25, 2009 9:30 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Infrequently discussed LB'ing option (from what I read)...
I’ve been a proponent of strongly pursuing former Jet and ‘04 12th overall pick, Jonathan Vilma, especially since the Bills are malleable (to an extent) about moving Posluszny to the strongside, because Vilma’s exceptional athleticism and versatility potentially could make him a fit at the weakside, too (which admittedly would move Mitchell to the stronside- but he has played all three LB’ing positions and played SLB as recently as ’07 w/the G-men), and because of the incredible potential and production Vilma showed in the Tampa 2 under Herm Edwards in ’04 and ’05; Vilma was the DROY in ’04 and a Pro-Bowler in ’05, leading the NFL in tackles in the process.
Vilma was not and is not a congruent fit in a 34 defense, and so the perception about him tailed in off for a couple of years (the knee injury didn’t help) when Mangini instituted that defensive alighment. But Vilma had enough of a bounce-back year w/the Saints that I’d feel comfortable making this still just 26-year old LB (27 in a couple of months; still only a few months older than other perceptible LB’ing considerations for the Bills, like the Falcons’ Michael Boley) one of our “headline” FA’s. And though the Saints actively want him back, because the stipulations of the trade w/the Jets made last Spring require that they part w/a 2nd-round pick if they sign Vilma before the start of FA (New Orleans doesn’t own a second-round pick because of the Shockey trade, so they’d have to forfeit their 14th overall pick to the Jets), Vilma will at least see the market midnight on Friday morning. And if a FA at least sees the market, it’s anybody’s guess where he ultimately ends up.
Anyway, for my first post here, I’m officially throwing my name in w/Vilma. But I read and hear much more about other guys around here besides him, such as Bart Scott (who seemingly will have a deal locked up w/Baltimore before the start of FA, if the rumors have credence), Michael Boley (who I would not mind at all- while he struggled in ‘08 in Mike Smith’s defense, the unheralded Falcon played well in ‘06 and then showed such promise after ’07 that he was tendered as a RFA at a 1st-round level), AND Channing Crowder. I would not mind Crowder either since he is solid and still has upside (he’s only 25)- but that he has a lack of “big plays” specifically for a defense like ours that needs more is concerning. BTW- what is w/these “rumors” that suggest the Bills have interest in him? I’ve read quite a bit of stuff around here and unless Geronimo spelled this out and I missed it, I don’t know… it strikes me as opinion since it seems only Geronimo genuinely has esoteric knowledge of what OBD is thinking and planning on doing, LOL…
by GrantMorgan on Feb 25, 2009 5:35 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
agreed about Vilma Grant
I think he would be a perfect fit in the middle of Buffalo’s defense. He has the range you look for in a cover-2 and the experience and success in the middle of a more traditional 4-3, which Buffalo appears to be using more and more of. I love the idea of putting him in the middle and moving Poz outside. Unfortunately, I don’t think the people at One Bills Drive share our opinion.
John I.
by jri111 on Feb 25, 2009 9:25 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Great first post – you use language well.
"Buffalo Bills Football 2009 (sponsored by Labatt): A Future as Uncertain as the Beer You’re Drinking"
"It's not delivery, it's DiGiorgio!"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Feb 25, 2009 9:53 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Vilma or Crowder. Let’s hope those two are our prime targets.
everything goes better with a BIG MACK
by keuka121 on Feb 25, 2009 10:08 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Welcome to the blog Grant!
You may have actually convinced me to like Vilma…. something I have never done simply because he played for the Jets.
I still prefer Crowder though.
Playing Eternal Optimist at Buffalo Rumblings since 2008.
by MattRichWarren on Feb 25, 2009 4:04 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
By the way...
… we DO need more Geronimo around here! That guy knew what he was talking about and I have to say, I was quite impressed. In fact, I knew that once McKelvin slipped past the Saints at 10 in last year’s draft that inevitably he’d be the Bills’ pick (because Geronimo said so). Usually I have more of a jaundiced eye towards “experts” not named Dick Jauron, Russ Brandon, or Jim Overdorf about these things- but Geronimo has proven himself more than once. So where exactly is he? I demand more Geronimo; can I have the motion seconded? :D
by GrantMorgan on Feb 25, 2009 5:38 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Thanks
I appreciate the call-out. The fact is as much as I have always enjoyed Rumblings and the passion of its participants, I left active involvement last year when things went bad and the level of vitriol here reached a point where it became uncomfortable and unenjoyable for me. Whatever ties I may have to OBD are personal in nature and I take the discourse that way. That said, I do chat fairly frequently offline with Brian and share a bit of what I may know—always careful never to jeopordize the Bills and what they are trying to accomplish. He can choose to vouch for me or not. I would say, however, that I am as excited as all of you to watch FA and the Draft unfold. OBD has a Plan, but so do 31 other teams. Perhpas i will share more openly in the days/weeks ahead.
Best,
Geronimo
Geronimo
by Geronimo on Feb 25, 2009 7:49 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
welcome back
I for one think the board has changed since that time and would enjoy hearing what you have to say about OBD and the moves that they could be eyeing. People are passionate about their Bills and at times do go overboard.
by gatornation on Feb 25, 2009 7:56 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I'd like to second
gatornation’s comments. This board has changed since last year. The fan’s that post purely based on their last emotion have basically gotten tired of this sites constant search for facts, and realistic discussions. Of course we enjoy our banter, but all of that is done in a respectful way. Welcome back and we hope to hear from you more.
by Buffalonian on Feb 25, 2009 8:46 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I don’t remember when things went bad. How so?
by krytime on Feb 25, 2009 9:15 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
bad
It did get brutal around here for a while. Not only the negativity, but also the constant posting and fanshots that were conclusory and backed by absolutely nothing substantive. You gotta love the passion, and everybody is entitled to say what they want, but it started to remind me a lot of the bills.com board which I stopped going to a few years back because of the sheer amount of useless content and ridiculously childish/strange arguments.
I’ll never post as much as I would like (stupid job demands), but as a reader from the start it is nice to see things revert back a bit. It is at least comfortable and enjoyable around here again. and not being bombarded with 200 posts and 10 fanshots a day helps. Maybe that is just a function of the offseason though.
Brian keeps it clean and streamlined and that’s all you can ask. Responsible posting is a bit harder to guarantee.
by jmorris0823 on Feb 25, 2009 9:39 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
The passion and feeling strongly one way or the other is fine. It is the guys who beat a dead horse that gets a little out of hand.
The time has come for someone to put his foot down. And that foot is me.
by sireric on Feb 25, 2009 9:42 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
RF365 Too
I used to post daily on RF365 but it got the same way. A few others that are now here were there (I remember a Grant w/ a similar writing style and Kurupt as well) and may be able to vouch for me, but it got downright nasty at times (just don’t ever talk poorly about Grenada ono RF365). I think as sireric said, the passion overcomes rational thought. Nice post GrantMorgan.
by NorCal BillsFan on Feb 25, 2009 3:00 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Must be another Kurupt, I never posted on RF365!
~K
"I’m Kurupt with Buffalo Rumblings. I am worth hundreds!"
by Kurupt on Feb 26, 2009 1:21 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
So many people are corrupt these days....
Just look to Chicago or Montreal!
Playing Eternal Optimist at Buffalo Rumblings since 2008.
by MattRichWarren on Feb 26, 2009 9:45 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I agree with krytime
The team collapsed, what did you want from angry fans, towing the line at OBD? Come on guys, its kind of sad the superior tone some of you are using when I am fairly confident everyone on these boards was losing their cool when 5-1 was all of a sudden 7-9.
Anyway, to Geronimo, its good to hear from you again and glad to see your back on the boards. Question, is there anything you can say to assure me that Pettigrew is not going to be the #11 pick? Also, is center going to be a priority early in the draft? Say round 2?
If we can finagle DE Brian Orakpo and C Alex Mack I will not complain about this team for a whole season. I promise.
by poz on Feb 25, 2009 12:28 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Welcome back
I can see your point. I am sure that those of us critical of Jauron and the rest of the staff put you in a tough spot. With that said, I don’t see that changing unless the team performs better this year. I hope you can stick around, but I am glad you keep in contact with Brian.
Any news you can share about Peters, Lynch, Crowell, or any other players is very much appreciated.
Bad boys, bad boys whatcha gonna do? Whatcha gonna do
when they come for you?
by Joe P. on Feb 25, 2009 9:38 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Criticism
I think objective criticism of players, coaches and the organization is totally fair and is to be expected. I have NO problem at all with that. It comes from the passion for the team. I do think that gratuitious name-calling and lack of any kind of objectivity is a big turn-off. No matter how smart we think we are, 100% of us here (including me!!) know less about the game and all of the factors in it—from play calling to player selection—than the folks at OBD do. Should that protect them from our critiquing from the sidelines—absolutely not. But not in a heavy handed way. Most of what I know I have shared with Brian and he has shared with the Board. Hopefully more in the next few days.
Geronimo
by Geronimo on Feb 25, 2009 10:07 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
criticism
I think it is what mesmorizes me about the NFL and the Bills organization in general. The intense scrutiny by fans, media and “crazies” all the while the men inside the white lines are laying everything they got out there. Lou Nanny, former GM of the MN Northstars said “you can’t expect to get paid this well, get all the perks of these jobs, all the power too, and not expect to not be critcized on a daily basis…..its part of the job.” It really is that simple.
However, as a fan and a “blogger” you gotta be realistic and “professional” as well. Ive heard enough DJ bashing to last a lifetime. Everyone wants to win, unfortunately the only way to get there is hard work and luck. I have no doubts that since 2006, this organization is on the right track. And I am thankful it didn’t get blowed up (emmit smith reference) and we would have to start from scratch again.
This is the most wonderful time of the year. FA, Draft, restructuring of the roster. It gives us all hope again. And I firmly believe whatever moves are made, while important, nothing is more important than what happens in the development of Trent and the offense as a whole.
MARVelous
by MARVelous on Feb 25, 2009 10:27 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I couldn't agree more MARVelous
Last August, prior to the season began and after I had been to Camp, I believe I posted that despite all of our optimism back then—-everything we’d done in the offseason (Kawika, Stroud, McKelvin etc.) would be totally for naught if we did not get a high level of performance out of Trent. I can 100% predict that I’ll say the same thing come this August. The NFL is a quarterback’s league. Always has been, always will be, unless they bring back the single wing. Sure—once in awhile you get a fluke like Dilfer with the SB Ravens, but the long and short of it is this, and this is a direct quote from somebody at OBD that everybody in the NFL subscribes to: “If you have a quarterback everything is possible and if you don’t, then nothing is possible.”
After all that happened last year with the Bills—isn’t this intuiitively obvious? You can go on a player-by-player, and coach by coach critique of our season, but simply put, if Trent had posted Chad Pennington’s numbers and Pennington had posted Trent’s—-aren’t the team’s records reversed? The game, for all of its complexities isn’t that complicated. Play solid defense, move the chains, don’t turn it over.
I was dismayed by Trent’s play after the great start. Maybe it was the concussion in AZ, maybe Reed’s going down crushed his security blanket. I don’t know. But he was NOT a good enough QB for us to win.
Whether you like him or not (and I do!!)—we are going to sink or swim with him. If he plays well—I think we’ll be a pretty good team not even knowing how FA and the Draft will shake out. if he doesn’t—we’re 7-9 again at best.
Geronimo
by Geronimo on Feb 25, 2009 11:35 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe it was the concussion in AZ, maybe Reed’s going down crushed his security blanket.
I think it was a little bit of both. Either way, I think it’s very safe to say (as you and BG have said) that the Bills go as Edwards goes.
by krytime on Feb 25, 2009 11:42 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I think the competition improving a bit was also a major factor…
~K
"I’m Kurupt with Buffalo Rumblings. I am worth hundreds!"
by Kurupt on Feb 26, 2009 1:24 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I don't know if we can blame the concussion
His best game of the year was against the Chargers two weeks after the concussion, right? Were there lingering effects after taking a few hits from the Jets? He didn’t take a shot the entire Chargers game if I remember. He was squeaky clean (another reason it was his best game no doubt).
Playing Eternal Optimist at Buffalo Rumblings since 2008.
by MattRichWarren on Feb 26, 2009 9:44 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I don't disagree that this is a QB's league
And I think Trent can get it done, but we gotta help the guy out too. Some of the play calling was brutal and what looked to be a lack of preparation on either Trent or Turk’s part to face 7-8 men back in coverage late in the season is quite troubling after other teams figured out Trent was killing the blitz.
Also, what is the feeling at ODB about how much influence Modrak will have this time around in the draft war room? More I am hoping as I think he can be trusted to make solid, dependable picks for this team to get better.
I told the witch doctor that I was in love with the Buffalo Bills, and instead of telling me to say "Oh eeh oh oh ah, ting tang walla walla wing bang" in order to make me feel better he told me to buy a gun and end it.
by WABillsfan on Feb 25, 2009 12:28 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
It is a fine line. Some of the name calling comes from a high level of frustration, and IMO is
deserved, “Bong Mode” for example. There are some very knowledgeable Bills fans on this site. That is both a blessing and a curse. I agree that the coaches know more than we do, but we know enough to question what looks to us to be questionable calls/moves. We do not have the information that the coaches have, nor should we, but that leaves us to speculate. For me, it is very much like the relationship I have with those who manage my investment portfolio. They keep losing my money, but they are still getting paid. They should know more about the market than me. But when they are questioned about their poor performance, all they do is repeat the same dogma over and over, which basically comes down to trust me….it will get better. With the Bills, it is not so easy to find another brokerage firm that you want to invest with.
Bad boys, bad boys whatcha gonna do? Whatcha gonna do
when they come for you?
by Joe P. on Feb 25, 2009 10:40 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Welcome back Geronimo. It has been many moons since you last sent up smoke signals. Here’s a question. What are the chances the Bills trade down out of #11 if the best DE’s are gone?
everything goes better with a BIG MACK
by keuka121 on Feb 25, 2009 10:21 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Smoke Signal to Keuka
So—are you SURE they’d take a DE at #11? I am not at ALL sure that is the case. Besides projecting at QB—nothing is harder than taking college pass rushing ability and projecting it into the NFL. I see all of the top-rated DE’s this year as “conversion guys” and despite their obvious athleticism would be hard-pressed to say how they’ll pass rush in the NFL. As a quick reminder how about last year’s draft there were 4 DEs (that I can remember) taken in the 1st round.—all because of their alleged ability to get to the passer. Chris Long, Vernon Ghoulston, Derrick Harvey, Lawrence Jackson. COMBINED sacks for the 4 of them? I think around 10. Somebody should check.
Prior to all of these bizarre rumours coming out about Maulahga’s “company” and “behavior” with NFL people worried about him—i would have predicated he’d be the pick with Poz going outside. Now i don’t know. 90% sure it will be defense though. Cushing maybe?
Geronimo
by Geronimo on Feb 25, 2009 12:10 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Cushing
he has been the guy I have pegged in at #11 right now. As much as I want an offensive skill position player, we need to continue to plug holes in the front 7 of our defense. Plus, a LB gives instant production, versatility, and playing in a pro-style defense at USC Maulagua and Cushing have an easier adjustment to make.
Geronimo, any thoughts on the skill positions? With Hardy essentially not to be counted on in 2009, Parrish not a factor really, and no pass-catching TE, is a pass-catching TE or addit’l WR a priority?
How good does it look taking McKelvin now? No CB this year is worthy, and getting arguably the best DB last year will pay off down the line if we get a front 7 that can get after the QB.
MARVelous
by MARVelous on Feb 25, 2009 12:23 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Skills
I think they will see what happens with the tender on the TE from the Texans—but certainly no TE is worth it at #11. As Brian has indicated, L. Pope is a FA possibility as well. I really do think you’ll see them go after a veteran WR in FA. Housh is likely out of reach financially. Nate Washington? Brian likes Amani Toomer—but he can’t threaten downfield which I think they need. I think they think that as well. Devery Henderson? Bad hands? Kelley Washington—great teams guy, but you have to wonder why he’s never been able to make it as a WR in the LFL. Such a stud in college.
Yup—The McKelvin pick looks even better in retrospect. Interesting—As I predicted last year, they knew if he got past the Pats, he’d be the pick. What I didn’t know then, but do now if that if McKelvin and G. Mayo had both been available, they’d have taken Mayo.
Geronimo
by Geronimo on Feb 25, 2009 12:47 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
What I didn’t know then, but do now if that if McKelvin and G. Mayo had both been available, they’d have taken Mayo.
Ha. I couldn’t remember if I’d heard that from you or somewhere else. :)
Buffalo Rumblings - all you care to know about the Buffalo Bills and more
by Brian Galliford on Feb 25, 2009 1:25 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Pretty sure
You heard that from me on a cold, November Buffalo night….:-)
Geronimo
by Geronimo on Feb 25, 2009 1:31 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
That must have been it. Still think about that turkey once in a while… mmmm.
Buffalo Rumblings - all you care to know about the Buffalo Bills and more
by Brian Galliford on Feb 25, 2009 1:38 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Is Cushing that good? I seriously don’t know. I haven’t seen him ranked as high as a #11 though.
by krytime on Feb 25, 2009 1:00 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
He’s pretty darned good. Banks has him #12 in his latest Mock. The kind of off-the-map intangibles that OBD loves.
Geronimo
by Geronimo on Feb 25, 2009 1:32 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Intangibles yes, but I’ve read in several locations that his instincts aren’t anything to write home about. Not a good read-and-react player (yet, at least). I’m not sure he could start right away, though obviously if we take him at 11, he’d have to. That’s a scary proposition, but at least he wouldn’t have to be an every-down player.
Buffalo Rumblings - all you care to know about the Buffalo Bills and more
by Brian Galliford on Feb 25, 2009 1:42 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
He’s just a name that jumped out off the top of my head, but he’ll be thoroughly vetted by April you can rest assured.
Interesting cuts from the Bucs today. And they were already $55M under the cap. Lots more by Friday I am sure.
Geronimo
by Geronimo on Feb 25, 2009 2:00 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Apparently they saved just shy of $10M with those cuts. Most think that they’re gearing up for a run at Haynesworth and a trade up for a first-round QB.
Buffalo Rumblings - all you care to know about the Buffalo Bills and more
by Brian Galliford on Feb 25, 2009 2:08 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Any cuts in store for our team? Please, tell me this guy is one of them———————————————————————→
~K
"I’m Kurupt with Buffalo Rumblings. I am worth hundreds!"
by Kurupt on Feb 26, 2009 1:29 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
FYI – Long, Gholston, Harvey and Jackson combined for 9.5 sacks. Long had 4, Harvey had 3.5, Jackson had 2 and Gholston had 0.
Buffalo Rumblings - all you care to know about the Buffalo Bills and more
by Brian Galliford on Feb 25, 2009 12:33 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Well—that makes the point doesn’t it! Pretty close for government work. LOL And Long was supposed to be the worst pure pass rusher of the 4. Awful tough to project…..
Geronimo
by Geronimo on Feb 25, 2009 12:49 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Let's attack our Foe!
Securing Brown would be nice, especially since the Dolphins are also interested but there is no need to break the bank when guys like Mack/Unger/Wood can be had at #42.
As for Channing, Although he plays ILB & MLB in the Dolphins defense, I think the kid is probably better suited for the SLB in a 4-3. I would love to see the bills get him in a Bill uniform. He is a solid player with 4years experience. And it would add a position of need to our competitor.
I like the idea of getting Damon Huard in Buffalo. Solid, smart player that can get the job done in a pinch with the risk of a controversy.
I don’t like the idea of overspending to get Daniels. He is a RFA and I don’t think he is worth giving up our #11 for. I believe that Pettigrew is going to be something real special and the TE class is pretty deep with one dimensional “pass-catching” TEs like Daniels which would be available in later rounds like Nelson/Cook
Your ability to control the LOS is directly linked to your ability to win football games!
FEED the BEAST!
Section 336 Row 13
by keysh67 on Feb 25, 2009 6:12 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Then again, another approach could be..
I have to say that Orakpo is impressive and faster than I figured he’d be. He is the only DE in the top of the crop that I think could play 4-3 because of his strenght & speed so I certainly would not be upset if he were drafted at #11. If OBD feel that he can be available at #11 then making a run for Brown is more important because our second round would need to be a TE because most of them will be gone by round 3.
Your ability to control the LOS is directly linked to your ability to win football games!
FEED the BEAST!
Section 336 Row 13
by keysh67 on Feb 25, 2009 6:20 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Update on Jeff Saturday: He likes Pittsburgh, but may be using the Steelers to re-interest the Colts.
Buffalo Rumblings - all you care to know about the Buffalo Bills and more
by Brian Galliford on Feb 25, 2009 8:27 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
this could allow mack to fall to us if he signs there – lets hope so
Oh. Uh, will you hold my wallet for me while I take the test, please? There's a thousand dollars in there... or maybe there isn't. Know what I mean?
by J2 on Feb 25, 2009 9:45 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Question
What is the downside for the Texans if the offer Daniels the highest tender? Besides the obvious, a bit more money. My only guess is they try and gauge another teams interest and offer him the tender, that coincides with the compensation they would expect. If they absolutely did not want him to leave you tender him the highest, right? But if you want to be intrigued with what compensation you might get, you offer a lesser tender, right? What else am I missing?
by Buffalonian on Feb 25, 2009 8:32 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
You’re actually reaching, I think. If you want to be intrigued with what compensation you might get, you tender high and start negotiating a sign-and-trade.
The only way Buffalo gets Daniels, in my opinion, is if they can pull off a sign-and-trade.
Buffalo Rumblings - all you care to know about the Buffalo Bills and more
by Brian Galliford on Feb 25, 2009 8:57 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, if they truly are interested in acquiring Daniels, it doesn’t mean they are gonna give the Texans the draft picks they tender him at (a 1st and 3rd most likely). If the Texans tender him at the highest level (likely), it just gives them all the negotiating power, which make RFA trades unusual.
But, if the Bills were to acquire Daniels, my assumption is that it would be through a sign-and-trade as well – similar to the Matt Schaub trade. Schaub was tendered at the highest level, but then Atlanta traded him & #10 pick in the 2007 draft to Houston for the #8 pick in the 2007 draft, Houston’s 2007 2nd round pick, and Houston’s 2008 2nd round pick.
Somewhat of a different situation because you can only play 1 QB and (at the time) Atlanta had no use for Schaub. But, given that TE’s are much less valuable than a QB, let’s say Buffalo sends it’s #11 and #42 picks this year and a late round pick next year to Houston for Owen Daniels and the #15 pick. Would you consider it? I’d be open to it.
by thatguy34 on Feb 25, 2009 9:36 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Birk
I can tell you for a fact Matt Birk will not resign with the Vikings b4 friday. I have sources in the know on that situation and it ain’t happening. The Vikings are expected to get into a bidding war for Jason Brown with the Dolphins and then draft a RT in the 1st round of the NFL draft.
MARVelous
by MARVelous on Feb 25, 2009 9:18 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
They’re spending an awful lot of money on that line of theirs if that’s the plan. I guess that makes sense, though, considering Peterson is their entire offensive attack.
Buffalo Rumblings - all you care to know about the Buffalo Bills and more
by Brian Galliford on Feb 25, 2009 9:26 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
yeah
they are really disappointed with the right side of their line, and rather than spend the money on aging Birk, they want to get younger. However, I do believe Birk could still end up in Minny if no team actively pursues his services. But I would think Birk would be a nice commodity for a team looking for a 2 year stop gap at Center.
MARVelous
by MARVelous on Feb 25, 2009 9:35 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Moving Down from #11 to #15
I am all over that…
by NorCal BillsFan on Feb 25, 2009 3:27 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Huard huh?
He is a guy that could win you games and be comfortable with his role as a backup I think. I can get behind that 100%.
Playing Eternal Optimist at Buffalo Rumblings since 2008.
by MattRichWarren on Feb 25, 2009 4:16 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Comments For This Post Are Closed
Secondary Sidebar
User Tools
SB Nation's home for daily Buffalo Bills coverage.
FanPosts
Community blog posts and discussion.
Certain photos copyright © 2009 by Associated Press or Getty Images. Any commercial use or distribution without the express written consent of Associated Press and Getty Images is strictly prohibited.
