SI.com Jim Trotter: AFC Free Agency Gameplans

BUFFALO: Running back Marshawn Lynch's second run-in with the law in less than a year may have the Bills rethinking their offseason priorities. It wasn't a coincidence Buffalo was among the first teams to call Fred Taylor after the running back was released by Jacksonville. Publicly the Bills are being supportive of Lynch, but his missteps have added to their to-do list.

Other priorities include finding a complement for Lee Evans, who was the only Buffalo wideout to catch more than two TD passes last year. Possible candidates include New Orleans' Devery Henderson and Pittsburgh's Nate Washington, as well as Tampa Bay's Joey Galloway. QB Trent Edwards needs options if he is going to take that next step.

Defensively the Bills have to improve their pass rush, which tied for 28th in sacks with 24. DE Aaron Schobel can be a force when healthy, but he needs help. Buffalo could use the 11th pick in the draft on an edge rusher, or it could seek to upgrade with veteran ends like Antonio Smith and Bertrand Berry of Arizona. The Bills also could seek to add a solid outside linebacker such as Atlanta's Michael Boley to replace Angelo Crowell, who is leaving as a free agent after missing last year with an injury.

The Bills' expected release of guard Derrick Dockery means they will be in the market for an interior offensive lineman. Ravens center Jason Brown is a possibility, although his cost could be too steep. Indianapolis' Jeff Saturday is a more reasonable option. He's older but should come cheaper. And he has the versatility to play both center and guard, areas of need for the Bills.

I don't think we will sign a DE or WR in free agency. LB is more likely. Center is probably, though I think it'll be Matt Birk.

almost 3 years ago MattRichWarren 0 comments 0 recs |