Bills should focus on quantity, not quality, in free agency
by Brian Galliford on Feb 17, 2010 9:00 AM EST
in Buffalo Bills Opinion
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PrintNFL free agency is going to be a tricky game to play this year. The pool of available players will dwindle as free agency rules change due to the (very likely) lack of a Collective Bargaining Agreement, making it difficult for teams to snag the young up-and-comer looking for his first big pay day. There will still be big-name talent available, without question, but the lack of younger, potential-laden alternatives to those big names will only drive up the asking price, in all likelihood.
The Buffalo Bills have a ton of holes to fill and a roster full of talent that, in many best-case-scenarios, only tangentially fit into what the team's new decision-making regime - led by GM Buddy Nix and head coach Chan Gailey - would like to do. This is especially true on the defensive side of the ball, as the team transitions to a 3-4 defensive alignment.
There are quality players to be had in free agency this year - players that could, in fact, help the Bills. I say let the other NFL teams bid on those players. Given the nature of the business this year, Nix's core belief that you get your best players - your franchise cornerstones - through the Draft, and the idea that frugality may be the best bet this off-season, I expect the Bills to focus on quantity instead of quality when free agency kicks off in early March.
We all know what Buffalo's biggest positional needs are. They need a quarterback. They need a left tackle. They need a nose tackle to anchor that 3-4 alignment, and they could stand to add as many pass rushers as they can. These are premium positions in this league, and the difference-making type of player the Bills need at those positions just won't be available via free agency.
That's not to say that the team couldn't add stop-gap options at any of those positions. Chad Pennington would be an excellent option as a one-year, short-term starter at quarterback in Buffalo. The team could experiment with unheralded veteran linemen such as Artis Hicks and Tony Pashos; at the very least, that type of lineman would be good to have to push the likes of Demetrius Bell. Bryan Robinson has some nose tackle experience and would be a good stop-gap option at that position. There are plenty of high-priced, aging pass rushers available, with Joey Porter topping the list there.
A lot of those names will be rather expensive to sign, however, given the depleted pool of talent this off-season. Aside from Pennington and perhaps Hicks (who can play guard), I don't expect the Bills to seriously sniff around any of those players (and, for the record, I only think those guys could be targets). Instead, I expect them to address depth issues via free agency - again, with quantity as opposed to quality.
Perhaps the team's biggest depth need is at linebacker, where the team has two guys that can start, but absolutely nobody to back them up. There are a ton of cheap, run-of-the-mill inside linebacker options on the market that can play tough for you inside and help you out on special teams. Larry Foote is the big name there, but even if the Bills are outbid for his services (and don't discount Foote's familiarity with Doug Whaley), guys like Matt Wilhelm, Nick Greisen, Monty Beisel and even a 4-3 option like Tony Gilbert would be suitable signings.
The team could also use some 3-4 defensive linemen. Again, nose tackle options are scarce - big names like Casey Hampton and Vince Wilfork will almost certainly get fat contracts thrown their way - there are some serviceable end options available. Baltimore's Dwan Edwards is a name I hear quite a bit, but don't forget about former Bill Justin Bannan, either - it'll be hard for Baltimore to re-sign both, though I'm sure they'll try. Whaley is familiar with Nick Eason, who played for Pittsburgh last year. Same goes with Travis Kirschke. Heck, even a guy like New England's Jarvis Green would look good here.
After yesterday's release of Derek Fine, tight end is suddenly a need area as well. Buffalo's current depth there includes a second-year receiving option, a fourth-year receiving option, and not much else. (Sorry, Jonathan Stupar fans.) I expect the Bills to try to get bigger and more physical at the tight end position to improve their run blocking and to complement Shawn Nelson, who I anticipate will be a key member of Gailey's passing attack. Brandon Manumaleuna is my early favorite free agent target here, but guys like Ben Hartsock, Reggie Kelly, Sean Ryan, Will Heller and Dan Campbell will get the job done, too.
You get the point I'm trying to make. It wouldn't shock me to see the Bills pursue a guy like Pennington, or even a big-name nose tackle like Hampton. "Shock" implies being floored, however; I would be surprised to see them chase the big names. Pennington's a unique case because of the importance of the quarterback position; I think you can pretty much forget about the rest of the big names. There won't be any Terrell Owens-like flash from this year's free agent crop. But the Bills are in good position to add valuable depth to their roster this season, and they should be able to do so rather cheaply. Rome won't be built in one off-season, but the team can lay its schematic foundation and get a little tougher in the process starting this March.
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I couldn’t agree more. I read “quantity not quality” in a slightly different way, too. Bring in five guys and the best two stick. It’s not rocket science – the more chances you have to make one decision or fill one spot correctly, the better your chances of success in doing that.
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as long as it’s serviceable quantity and we’re not recycling the same garbage every season.
most of my posts get deleted :(
Well this is the first time we’ll be doing it. :-) Hopefully those spots get upgraded each year.
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by MattRichWarren on Feb 17, 2010 10:15 AM EST up reply actions
Guess it beats our established tendency to wait and pick from other teams’ waiver and practice squad dumpsters.
Seems like a no-brainer. Remember the pain and frustration last year as Jauron and company repeatedly passed on available free agent talent in obvious positions of need? One disappointment after another. Then we start the season with a skeleton crew of marginal under-sized talent waiting to be injured.
most of my posts get deleted :(
The Bills were pretty close to the Salary Cap last year. They may have been able to sign one guy. They identified the guys they wanted and went after them.
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by MattRichWarren on Feb 17, 2010 11:21 AM EST up reply actions
Besides Money
Why would any of these players come to Buffalo? Would playing time be enough? Is the coaching staff credible enough to have a player want to play for this team? Besides money, how are we going to build this linebacking core up from last year when last years staff failed miserably at trying?
This is like dumping a new puzzle from it's box. Now let's start putting the peices together. I guess this is what we all asked for.
im starting to get tired of the
“why would anyone want to come to buffalo” rhetoric. they would want to come here because they are professionals. this team isnt terrible and there are certainly teams that are worse off. buffalo is a good organization with a new coaching staff and rabid fans. i dont think coming to buffalo is that “unattractive.”
Besides aging superstars ala mcnabb who wants to win a super bowl in the next 2-3 years, there is nothing wrong with the bills. they are trying to fix whats wrong with the team and so far have done a good job. they have a gm and (gasp) a gm in waiting. they have (in my opinion) a pretty good coaching staff hired and some quality players already on the team. this team isnt the black hole of the nfl, no matter how much people may believe that.
Buffalo, that's where it's at baby. - Adam 'Pacman' Jones
by silverstreak3k on Feb 17, 2010 1:18 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
True
But players today voice there preferences as to where they want to play. I dare say the Bill’s are not at the top of the list. Notice I said Bill’s not Buffalo. With that said maybe with new management we can get better FA.
by buffalobacker on Feb 17, 2010 1:34 PM EST up reply actions
"this team isnt the black hole of the nfl, no matter how much people may believe that."
“this team isnt the black hole of the nfl, no matter how much people may believe that.”
But many do believe it is the black hole of the NFL. And until that perception is changed by winning big games Buffalo will not win many coin tosses when the dollars offered by another team are the same.
Van Scott’ comment is on the mark. Hopefully, we will be targeting players that do not have to worry about playing time (K-Town), b/c if we are this may be a very long rebuilding process.
by WhatGoesAround on Feb 17, 2010 2:24 PM EST up reply actions
Read your signature, is that Rhetoric
We lost a starting LB to Chicago last preseason along with a RB to New England. Yes we did get Drayton Florence and T.O but for some reason, we lack the appeal for some of these FA’s. I personally wouldn’t want anyone on this team that doesn’t want to be here as much as some of the fans or so called fans that pretend to support this franchise. My point is what are we going to have to do to get some of these guys to buy into our rebuilding when we couldn’t totally accomplish it last year. I know one way would to be to bring in a franchise QB, but if they grew on trees, then that would of already been done. Maybe the other way is to bring in the no name that are looking for a small deal to get playing time and prove thier worth.
This is like dumping a new puzzle from it's box. Now let's start putting the peices together. I guess this is what we all asked for.
The Bills lucked out tremendously by not landing Pisa and Fred Taylor. Both of them suffered significant injuries early on and were never factors for their teams.
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by TheAfghanTwilight on Feb 19, 2010 10:39 AM EST up reply actions
With the lines I completely agree. Bring in mutliple players to fight it out for playing time and depth. That makes the most sense to me. And also build thru the draft.
As for LB… I would want them to go after Foote, if not Foote then Porter hard. Foote makes the most sense with age and 3-4 experience. But Porter is interesting because hes isnt shy when it comes to his hatred for the Pats (which I love) and Im sure he’d love to play against the Phins twice a year to show them hes still got it. Thats 4 games a year, 4 divisional games a year, where Porter plays with an extra level. I would love to see him tear Bradys head off or reak havoc on the Phins. Either a Mitchell – Foote – Poz – Maybin or Porter – Mitchell – Poz – Maybin LB crew would be one hell of a way to start off the 3-4 transition.
As for QB. I dont want to go the FA route anymore… I did at first but Im starting to think of the idea of Edwards, Brohm, Fitz(backup), Rookie battle it out for starter. Whoever wins, wins. But I want the majority of FA money to go to the lines (depth, maybe a starter on O or D) and one of those two LB’s.
"Hey ey ey ey"
by bflo on Feb 17, 2010 9:24 AM EST reply actions 1 recs
These are good points about Foote and Porter.
A future post should be about the state of our Division. New England without Wes Welker for a large part of the season, Chad Henne leading the dolphins who still depend on the wild cat for an offensive advantage and finally the up and coming Jets. Who have their franchise quarterback but is still young and inexperienced enough to be rattled
This is like dumping a new puzzle from it's box. Now let's start putting the peices together. I guess this is what we all asked for.
Thanks. exactly my point
Before we even begin to think about playoffs or anything like that. We need to be able to win divisional games. 0-6, 1-5, 2-4, hell even 3-3 doesnt cut it. You need to go at least 4-2 in your own division to have a shot. And if we can bring someone like Porter in who already hates the Pats, and isnt on any good terms with the Phins would be great. And thats even before hes a Bill. Imagine how he would feel to go against those teams 4 times a year. I mean the dude had 17.5 sacks two years ago and 9 last year, and thats with part-time playing.
Yeah a State of the AFCE would be a pretty popular thread im guessing lol. Heated discussion in there.
"Hey ey ey ey"
The AFC East bloggers usually get together for that over the summer after the draft.
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by MattRichWarren on Feb 17, 2010 10:11 AM EST up reply actions
4 divisional games a year, where Porter plays with an extra level
IMO, that’s the problem with Porter. he plays when he wants and takes off a lot of plays. That’s what got him in Parcells’ doghouse. Tuna wants someone in the game every play. Porter’s ego (and mouth) are bigger than Lake Erie. I don’t see that as a positive for a team looking for unity/consistency (again).
"In wine there is wisdom, in beer there is strength, in water there is bacteria"
Why Chad?
Brian, I’m not sure Chad’s arm would be a good fit for those windy December Buffalo home games. I have this ESP[N] like feeling this is the year Seattle parts with Hasselbeck. (Just saying.)
Pennington would be a stopgap, not someone that you think is going to win a Super Bowl. So even if his arm is weak there’s so many other strengths that it’s worth consideration.
And I think windy games are overblown (pun not intended, but it fits!). How many games each year does this impact, particularly with a late season game going to Toronto? Probably one home game.
If a strong arm was a requirement you might as well get Vick – they don’t get stronger than that.
But what's the point of Pennington?
I strongly agree with the basic point of going after quantity in FA, but I don’t see why bringing in an injury-prone QB with a suspect arm makes any sense in what is clearly going to be a rebuilding year. Why not use the year to give a younger QB like Brohm experience and see how he can develop? Or draft a guy like Jarrett Brown or John Skelton and give them on-the-job training? Pennington is merely a place-holder. 2010 is a great opportunity to bring a new QB along given the fact that the Bills have no hope of reaching the playoffs while installing completely new offensive and defensive systems, etc.
by Macktruck on Feb 17, 2010 11:34 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
I just wish
Penington would retire, go back to the Fins, or sign somewhere (other than Buffalo) and soon. I’d like the whole subject to go away. I’m tired of hearing his name.
All this talk about Fine being injury prone…what about Pennington? 3 count ’em 3 surgeries – on his throwing shoulder, yet.
"In wine there is wisdom, in beer there is strength, in water there is bacteria"
by fansince60 on Feb 17, 2010 12:04 PM EST up reply actions 2 recs
i would also like it if pennington wasnt in a bills uni next year.
Buffalo, that's where it's at baby. - Adam 'Pacman' Jones
by silverstreak3k on Feb 17, 2010 1:19 PM EST up reply actions
I agree completely, ‘60. His positives don’t outweigh the negatives for me. Furthermore, i’m really unhappy when the team brings in a player for 1 year, with no intentions of keeping them around going forward. It’d be really difficult to get behind a team that turns over significant components of their roster year after year. Some of you will say, get used to it, that’s free agency. But I disagree.
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by TheAfghanTwilight on Feb 19, 2010 10:45 AM EST up reply actions
This is why, Gailey was brought in.
To help us in our search for our next, longer than three year QB. We have the right to share opinions, but the bottom line is what ever Gailey decides after his evaluation, his staffs input, the combine and individual pro-days then F/A period. He will make the best decision for us. Anything other than that is just Blogg material. I couldn’t agree more with the process that is underway, but I could do without the QB analysis from everyone, when there are so many other areas of concern to concentrate on. I don’t intend to demean this area of concern as much as it seems, but I am just willing to bypass this and leave it up to our new staff.
This is like dumping a new puzzle from it's box. Now let's start putting the peices together. I guess this is what we all asked for.
Wouldn’t sitting and learning behind a cerebral QB like Pennington make a lot of sense for Brohm or any other developmental QB?
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by MattRichWarren on Feb 17, 2010 12:48 PM EST up reply actions
Not unless that person's last name is Cortez
This is like dumping a new puzzle from it's box. Now let's start putting the peices together. I guess this is what we all asked for.
It might make sense if Pennington was able to stay on the field. I sincerely doubt Pennington is a 16-week starter behind the team’s line in 2010.
Buffalo Rumblings Premiere League 2009 Champion
"Am I a hero? I really can't say, but yes - I am." --Michael Scott
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by TheAfghanTwilight on Feb 19, 2010 10:46 AM EST up reply actions
The Dolphins line had a rookie left tackle when he started 16 games and a very bad Center. He seems to be healthy every other year, right? This is the one! :-)
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by MattRichWarren on Feb 20, 2010 9:03 PM EST up reply actions
The point of Pennington is the development of the offense as a whole. I couldn’t imagine a worse way for our young offensive line and guys like Nelson, Hardy and Johnson to develop than drafting Jarrett Brown and playing him right away. Actually, I couldn’t imagine a worse way to develop Brown either. Young QBs from spread systems or who need a lot of work on the fundamentals are better served learning from the sidelines.
We could play Brohm, but what if he’s the checkdown machine that he was in Green Bay’s preseason games? Or what if he stinks in general? Buffalo needs stability on offense and Pennington provides that. He’d get all the receivers involved, would help the young guys develop a sense of timing and would reward well run routes. For the OL he would be a predictable player to block for and the offensive lineman would also know that Pennington will get rid of the ball. There’s nothing easier for a lineman to block for than a pocket QB who gets the ball out on time.
The idea behind Pennington is that he instantly gives Buffalo something that looks like a real NFL offense. We could put Brohm in and hope that everybody gels together into an offense, or we could put a proven, successful, QB with lots of experience and leadership into the locker room. Nobody would get everybody on the same page quicker than Pennington. And then after a year or two, a Pennington lead offense is a great situation for a young QB to walk into. If Buffalo really thinks Brohm has potential, than a year of working with Pennington and developing in a Pennington style offense could be the best way to develop him.
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by kaisertown on Feb 17, 2010 12:55 PM EST up reply actions 5 recs
which is all great until get gets crushed in the first game of the season and goes on IR
I am not against bringing in Chad as a mentor, but I wouldn’t expect him to win us many games. Bringing in a Vet QB is not my first choice. I would rather roll with what we have.
If we end up with Vick, T.O., Richie I., and Porter….that is really pushing the dbag density limit for one team.
Well if he’s on IR, like he was last year, he can still help your QB, like he helped Henne last year.
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by MattRichWarren on Feb 17, 2010 1:36 PM EST up reply actions
You mean like a mentor??? Why didn't I think of that :-)
If we end up with Vick, T.O., Richie I., and Porter….that is really pushing the dbag density limit for one team.
:-)
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by MattRichWarren on Feb 17, 2010 5:06 PM EST up reply actions
I think Foote is the most likely “name” UFA that Buffalo signs.
Interesting article about Jimmy Kennedy linked under MRW’s report. Ted Washington wasn’t real good in SF and Denver before becoming a force in Buffalo. Might be worth a look.
Mostly, I see Buffalo signing stop-gap types that will be in place only long enough to allow the team to draft replacements. The disappointment level in the fan base is going to be elevated, but no one should be surprised. This is exactly what Nix said in his first pres conference, that he wasn’t big into free agency. And he’s done everything he said he would do so far, so we have no reason to doubt him.
by Der Jaeger on Feb 17, 2010 9:32 AM EST reply actions 2 recs
Very True On Nix
I also believe that Gailey will be true to his words as well. So far that is a very promising sign for the fans to cling to as this franchise wobbles on the fence for two years. I am totally leaving the QB situation up to Gailey and Nix. Whatever direction they go is going to have to be acceptable to us. They are the brain trust and specialist in this area, the odds of them getting it remotely close to where we want to be is better than where we were over the last decade.
This is like dumping a new puzzle from it's box. Now let's start putting the peices together. I guess this is what we all asked for.
The other thing with free agents this is year is that they’re older overall. The current setup makes a large portion of the most desirable free agents restricted free agents. Those would have been the players the Bills may have targeted to help the team 2-3 years down the road. But now they’re faced with older players in FA so the stop-gap route is a better way to go at this point.
Mostly, I see Buffalo signing stop-gap types that will be in place only long enough to allow the team to draft replacements. The disappointment level in the fan base is going to be elevated, but no one should be surprised.
Yup.
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by MattRichWarren on Feb 17, 2010 10:14 AM EST up reply actions
on a similar note
to acquiring players, Mort is reporting the Charger’s want to trade for a running back. Given the SD connection with Nix, it might be an opportunity to trade Lynch, and get something reasonable for him.
"In wine there is wisdom, in beer there is strength, in water there is bacteria"
Yeah but they are talking about trading Antonio Cromartie. The Bills don’t need a CB.
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by MattRichWarren on Feb 17, 2010 11:22 AM EST up reply actions
Oh absolutely. I was just citing Mortenson’s report.
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by MattRichWarren on Feb 17, 2010 11:25 AM EST up reply actions
well isnt Shawn Merriman
going to be a free agent next year? They could try to trade him for Marshawn now and not have to worry about letting him walk for nothing. Could plug a hole in the 3-4
"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 Feb 17, 2010 12:33 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
I thought the same thing today, and I love the idea.........
But Ralph has got to pay him.
"A failure becomes just one time at bat if you refuse to let it defeat you." Marv Levy.
by SERGEANT MAJOR THOR on Feb 17, 2010 8:08 PM EST up reply actions
im a pro-Marshawn guy
but I would be very happy with that trade. A 23 year old running back who has been to a Pro Bowl goes to a team in need of a running back and a 25 year old 3-4 OLB who has been to a Pro Bowl goes to a team in need of a 3-4 OLB. Both have had issues recently but both are high upside. Kind of a real good trade for both teams. very fair.
"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
schizophrenia
One day everybody agrees that we must rebuild via the draft and free agency is of relatively little value. Then not much later the same people agree that we need to grab as many prospects as possible through free agency. It’s like one revelation after the other and another bandwagon to jump on. Reality is that EVERY source of available talent needs to be considered equally. That includes the draft, free agency and trades.
Decide on your scheme, realistically evaluate your existing talent, then systematically acquire the best available talent that fits your plans. Personally, I don’t care how they get here or where they come from, just get it done!
most of my posts get deleted :(
Free Agency is not the place to find superstars it’s the place to find role players. You build champions through the draft.
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by MattRichWarren on Feb 17, 2010 11:23 AM EST up reply actions
Tell that to the Saints. They have starters that came as FA’s at QB, C, FB, NT, LB, MLB, CB & FS . Drew Brees, Johnathan Goodwin, Scott Fujita, Jabari Greer and Darren Sharper were all UFA’s.
I agree that championship teams are built through the draft, but I think you underestimate the potential value of free agency.
most of my posts get deleted :(
by dzil on Feb 17, 2010 12:18 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Saints are a rare team. Even a guy like Kurt Warner generally doesn’t hit free agency after leading the Rams to the Super Bowl. Ditto Brett Favre.
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by MattRichWarren on Feb 17, 2010 12:49 PM EST up reply actions
Most of those guys were signed as role players though. That’s 8 free agents that you’ve listed and that includes a MLB that they actually traded for in Vilma (and they’ve traded for Shockey too if we’re counting those). And does a FB really count?
In a lot of ways the Saints got lucky with Brees. They got lucky that SD drafted Rivers and they got lucky that Brees had no trade value after seriously injuring his arm. And then they also got lucky that he recovered and that they had a dome where his skillset fits so well.
Jonathon Goodwin was signed to be a backup and sat on their bench for a couple years.
DTs like Kendrick Clancy and Anthony Hargrove were pretty much career rotational guys and role players before signing with the Saints.
Darren Sharper signed a one year deal with New Orleans and earned the max value of his contract, a whopping 1.7 mil. He only got 200K as a signing bonus after looking shot in Minnesota.
Fujita signed with New Orleans after losing his starting job and getting cut by the Cowboys. He’s a really solid player, but is more of a role player than anything else. He’s no different than the Kawika Mitchell signing was here.
Outisde of Brees, Jabari Greer was the most substantial FA that New Orleans has signed in a long time.
Obviously, FA is important, but the Saints built a winner by drafting well and filling the team in with role players via free agency. The core of players that they’ve drafted (or found after the draft) includes: Reggie Bush, Pierre Thomas, Jammal Brown, Jermon Bushrod, Jahri Evans, Jon Stinchcomb, Carl Nicks, Marques Colston, Robert Meachem, Devery Henderson, Lance Moore, Will Smith, Charles Grant, Sedrick Ellis, Roman Harper, Tracy Porter and Malcolm Jenkins. Teams need to be built through the draft and supplemented via FA.
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
The Saints had a total of 12 starters that they drafted and 10 that they didn’t, 7 of which were free agent acquisitions. Point is that free agency can and does yield more than just depth players, contrary to what some people have insisted.
most of my posts get deleted :(
Insisted is the wrong word. The Saints are an exception, not the rule. Very rarely do top flight QBs change teams unless it’s at the end of a career. Brees is the big exception because he stunk and when the Chargers tried to replace him he ended up not stinking anymore.
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by MattRichWarren on Feb 17, 2010 9:15 PM EST up reply actions
"stunk" isnt exactly accurate
Two years before being traded Drew Brees gave the Chargers 27 touchdowns to 7 interceptions with 3,100 yards and the year before being traded he gave them 24 touchdowns to 15 picks for 3,500 yards. Thats some pretty good stuff right there.
Julius Peppers is an example of a free agent who will have an immediate and enormous impact on the team he goes to. Top 3 DE in the league, some would say the best. Brett Favre was a free agent who made a major impact on the Vikings, Marshall Faulk and Edgerrin James swapped teams, Plaxico Burress to the Giants.
There is no right way to build a winner. Teams have done it through the draft and free agency.
"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 Feb 17, 2010 9:34 PM EST up reply actions 2 recs
But his great season in 2004 was after they drafted Rivers (April 2004) replacing the not so great Brees. They had to make a choice between the guy they invested big bucks and a high draft pick in or the guy that had just come on recently. They had the unique opportunity of having two great QBs. Brees was also coming off a shoulder injury in the Pro Bowl. He wasn’t traded. In fact the Dolphins passed on Brees to sign Culpepper because they were so concerned.
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by MattRichWarren on Feb 18, 2010 9:16 AM EST up reply actions
I think Brian is right on about how the Bills will approach the free agent signings this year.
And I do think going quantity over quality may be the best strategy this year in free agency.
But you gotta admit, the Bills (and Sabres) do make it difficult to to have fun following them, by the way they do business.
I mean, in the age of Madden, Fantasy Football, Mock Drafts and articles/blogs about potential trades every day of the year, it is almost like sports has two seasons to root for. When following a team, you obviously root for them to win the games.
But coming up a close second to this, is following, predicting, analyzing, etc what changes can be made to the roster. Signing that big free agent (like TO), and then dreaming of how he will help the entire offense get better, or the excitement he brings….that is the stuff that fans can get excited about even if the team isn’t winning the games.
Take Toronto Maple Leafs. Yes, they aren’t winning games, but at least the fans can get excited about some of the recent trades they have made, and dream about how the roster could look with another couple moves.
That is where Bills/Sabres fans lose out. They hardly ever are snagging big names in free agency (forget for a second that the “good” teams in football don’t do this, either, because this post is not about if it’s a good strategy or not….only that not doing it def isn’t fun to root for), making big trades, etc. So we really only get to root for the outcome of the actual games. And lately, that hasn’t gone will either.
I guess my point is, I wonder what percentage of the fun in rooting for a team is broken out into “wins/losses” vs “rooting for roster upgrades/active in free agency, trades”? And what part of the fun of rooting for the Buffalo teams are we missing out on because our teams really don’t participate in free agency/trades to the extent of other teams?
by StroudFanClub on Feb 17, 2010 10:31 AM EST reply actions 1 recs
This not only applies to how active the teams are in free agency/ trades, but also who they target
I mean, it’s just not as much fun to have a search for a head coach, and then know in your head to not even get excited about dreaming of a Bill Cowher, Mike Shanahan, etc hire.
It’s not as much fun to have an article about free agent targets and then automatically dismiss guys like Vince Wilfork because you know that the Bills won’t go after such a big name.
Thoughts? Does this stuff have an impact on how much fun it is to follow the Bills/Sabres?
by StroudFanClub on Feb 17, 2010 10:37 AM EST up reply actions
i agree with that for the most part. I remember when I got THE text “Buffalo Bills announce press conference for 6pm” First thought? “HOLY @#$% WE ARE GOING TO SIGN T.O.!!!” I was excited. Everyone was. It got us pumped up about Bills football in early March. I love the offseason usually, but usually we arent going for the big splash, so it ends up a little disappointing…
"Hey ey ey ey"
Haha, totally agree about the excitement level on the day I heard we signed TO
My buddy called me and screamed it into the phone “Get singed TO!”, I seriously didn’t believe him. I had to turn on WGR and hear it for myself. Haha
I then went to a family party and I swear I went up to every football fan I knew and was like, “Hey, did you know we signed TO today?” Such a cool feeling.
That day we def got a chance to feel what it may be like to follow another team. I mean, for one day you can put aside any negative thoughts about this move may not work out, we are spending money on a big name that is past his prime, etc, and just be a fan again, just be excited about getting to watch a superstar known around the entire country that will now be playing in your stadium. Just great memories, for me at least.
by StroudFanClub on Feb 17, 2010 10:44 AM EST up reply actions
I might not have a problem with Tebow in the 2nd round, but I’m starting to lean more towards Dan Williams in round 1. With our existing O line healthy, along with a couple FA’s, we can get by. We have nobody that remotely resembles a true NT, it’s our 2nd biggest need following QB IMO.
most of my posts get deleted :(
Hahaha yes. To all of what you just said. Hell I even had my grandma call me saying “Jeez now Terrell Owens is a Bill?, did you order his jersey yet?” My phone was non-stop from friends and familes texts and calls. It was a cool feeling knowing we signed such a big name.
And like you said, “Hes playing in our building now” that was a great part too. Idk if you were at the home opener, but when he scored (as I get goosebumps typing this, can you tell I miss football?) that was one of the loudest times Ive heard that stadium in a while. It was great, “TO TO TO TO TO” And of course he was loving it.
On another side note… it was really loud when Kyle Williams stuffed McGahee for like a 4 yard loss in the Bills-Ravens game 2 years ago. That was a fun game to be at too.
"Hey ey ey ey"
Dude, I was at both the games you speak of
It was insane when TO caught that touchdown in the Home Opener. Oh yeah, he was loving the attention for sure. I will never forget that either.
And yep, I loved when McGahee came back here with the Ravens. Everytime he touched the ball he got booed. And he deserved to.
Heck, even my grandmother loves the Bills and Sabres too. Man, I swear, you touched on alot of great things in your post.
by StroudFanClub on Feb 17, 2010 11:00 AM EST up reply actions
Haha
Awesome stuff. I remember in the parking lot of the Ravens game we had a pile of McGahee jerseys burning and since it was his B-day that day, the people we were with bought a b-day cake and had ‘Happy Birthday ______’ on it. You fill in the blank, any term you think of would have worked lol.
Those are some of the times ill remember the most when im old and gray haha. The fans, the tailgating, the everything. Sure the games are great, but I would say more than half of it is taking in the whole experience. If you want to watch the game just to watch the game, then TV is for you. But to take in the whole NFL/Buffalo Bills experience and why majority of us love this team, its because of the fans. I love that place…
"Hey ey ey ey"
by bflo on Feb 17, 2010 11:24 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
With you bro... rather go to the Ralph than be anywhere on Sunday
"A failure becomes just one time at bat if you refuse to let it defeat you." Marv Levy.
by SERGEANT MAJOR THOR on Feb 17, 2010 8:19 PM EST up reply actions
Absolutely. If we could pick up Chad Pennington, Larry Foote, Brandon Manumaleuna and Travis Kirschke, we would have done a somewhat solid job in FA, because we would have added depth to a lot of positions (LB, TE and DE). Pennington would be a one-year-starter and I could easily imagine, we’d pursue a guy like Tim Tebow in the second round, if he’s on the board. In the first round, I’d expect us to draft the best OT on the board.
"The one commonality in both places (Oakland and Buffalo) is an aging owner who keeps interfering too much. Ralph Wilson continually butts his nose in the football operation and tells the team who to draft"
by BillsfanfromDenmark on Feb 17, 2010 10:42 AM EST reply actions
So what was the point in cutting Fine again?
He’s the classic quantity type player. Swapping out quantity guys for other quantity guys is change for the sake of change. I’d rather see Buffalo make changes for the better instead of just rotating ho-hum guys through the roster.
It can always get worse. Let me tell you how.
INJURIES.
Buffalo Rumblings. On Twitter.
"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take. --Wayne Grezky" --Michael Scott
by Brian Galliford on Feb 17, 2010 10:58 AM EST up reply actions
My b on the caps.
Buffalo Rumblings. On Twitter.
"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take. --Wayne Grezky" --Michael Scott
by Brian Galliford on Feb 17, 2010 11:00 AM EST up reply actions
Yeah, if you’re keeping Nelson and Schouman, two mediocre blockers, then your third TE has to be a more reliable player than Fine is. The Bills can’t go half the year without a blocking TE again, especially considering the OL, mess at QB and that Gailey might be a run heavy play caller.
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
Schouman a mediocre blocker
The poor guy didn’t play last year. One of Geronimo’s last comments was how huge of a loss Shouman’s role was to the team. I am expecting his blocking to be a bit more than mediocre. The hole D. Fine dismissal has me concerned too, but we don’t even know what type of offense Gailey is going to install.
This is like dumping a new puzzle from it's box. Now let's start putting the peices together. I guess this is what we all asked for.
It’s not that Schouman is a bad blocker, but he’s one of the smaller TEs in the league. Maybe he’d be solid sealing off a DE or going low on defensive lineman, but he’s definitely not the guy you want to run behind in short yardage situations. And that’s really the type of player I’m talking about as a 3rd TE. Not a guy who would take playing time away from Nelson or Schouman, but a situational player who is as much of an offensive lineman as he is TE. Having a guy like that lessens what a player like Schouman has to do physically too. If Schouman doesn’t have to be leaned on as a blocker, than he’s that much healthier as the season (and his career) progresses.
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
It’s no different than marching out the TE who only plays in those limited scenarios…
We don't see things as they are, we see them as we are. ~Anais Nin
The string was regarding TEs… Cinga mentioned the extra OL… Your queried the ‘camouflage factor’ of adding the extra OL… It was my assumption that was what you were referring to. If not, my apologies.
In any case, to correct my statement: The single-use-blocking TE would be of no advantage from a disguise and options point of view and, presumably, would not be as good of a run blocker as an additional OL. So if it’s only 1-2 yards to go, I agree with Cinga in that I’d prefer to send out an OT-Eligible (and maybe a FB) and dare the other team to stop the onslaught.
Of course, there would be nothing preventing the Bills from running the odd counter or naked-bootleg… ^)
We don't see things as they are, we see them as we are. ~Anais Nin
So what was the point in cutting Fine again?
Perhaps the Bills aren’t looking for TEs with different skill sets (blocking, receiving). It could be that they want to make sure if there’s a TE on the field that he’s a receiving threat. So if you can’t be a reliable receiver there’s no point in keeping him around.
Every place I’ve checked has him listed as a UFA.
Buffalo Rumblings. On Twitter.
"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take. --Wayne Grezky" --Michael Scott
by Brian Galliford on Feb 17, 2010 10:59 AM EST up reply actions
Nix's opinion
Nix’s opinion on the talent level of FA’s being invited to camp will be different from what we have become accustomed to. Obviously, John Guy’s approach yielded very few positive results. It will be very interesting to see what type of players Buddy starts bringing in.
'To get something you never had,
you have to do something you never did.'
I'm not so sure
I think its way too early to predict our free agency strategy because we still don’t know who will get the franchise tag and who won’t. If the Patriots elect not to tag Vince Wilfork – and some sources are saying its a major possibility with Wilfork threatening to sit out the entire year if they give him a one year $7 million deal – then I’d have to imagine that Buddy Ni, Doug Whaley, and Chan Gailey will do everything they can to give the best nose tackle in the league, who happens to be young to boot, the deal he wants to come to Buffalo.
By the same token there are rumors that the Raiders will franchise tag and then trade, or not even tag at all, newly acquired Richard Seymour. Many are quick to point out that the Raiders sacrificed a 1st to obtain him so they would be unlikely to let him walk but the fact is the franchise tag for a DE this year runs a team $13 million for 16 games. The Raiders already have Jamarcus Russel on the books, contracts to dish out to linebackers Howard and Morrison this year or next and are already tied up financially with Tommy Kelly and Nnamdi Asomugha (not to mention the big bucks Derrious Heyward – Bey and McFadden are eating up). If a long term deal with Richard Seymour can’t be worked out look for Oakland to let him walk or tag him and trade him. Both are appealing for the Bills.
Finally, there’s Chad Clifton who after being injured came in and helped stabilize the Packers offensive line at LT. Rodgers got much better protection in the second half of the year and while Clifton has clearly lost a step and is now more vulnerable to quick OLB, he would be a better option that Bell and would allow Gailey/Nix/Whaley to focus on other positions during the draft than LT.
I’m just saying that to discount a big signing now might be premature.
"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
I’d have to imagine that Buddy Ni, Doug Whaley, and Chan Gailey will do everything they can to give the best nose tackle in the league, who happens to be young to boot, the deal he wants to come to Buffalo.
Go back and listen to Nix’s thoughts on free agency in his introductory press conference. Pretty sure you’ll change your tune.
Buffalo Rumblings. On Twitter.
"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take. --Wayne Grezky" --Michael Scott
by Brian Galliford on Feb 17, 2010 12:59 PM EST up reply actions
oh, I heard that bit
I just think its almost the right thing to say when a new regime comes in and inherits a fan population desperate for a winning franchise. It’s the equivalent of him telling us “have some patience, this is going to take time”. By telling us he’s building through the draft he’s only giving himself a few losing seasons of leniency – which he does deserve. We all know this team is going to have to be built through the draft but it doesn’t mean if a Vince Wilfork hits the market you dont go after him because hes going to cost money. Hes young and better than any NT in the draft and I would have to believe Nix would go for him.
"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
basically
its like how every player says “we’re taking it one game at a time” even though we all know they probably aren’t. Its still the basic philosophy and the right thing to say but it doesn’t make it true all the time.
"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
I really like the Chad Clifton idea
Gotta think that at this point in his career he wouldn’t cost that much, plus I’m sure he’s not looking for a multi year deal. So have him come in for 1-2 years to be a stopgap, have him teach some of our young guys, and be a good bridge until these good guys are good enough to replace him. I love that idea actually.
by StroudFanClub on Feb 17, 2010 1:03 PM EST up reply actions
exactly
and if we can get two good years out of Clifton we might not even need to draft a LT at all. Bell showed to me at least that he got better as the year went on. Less flags and less massive hits on the QB (still too many of both though). Sitting for two years and learning from a pro like Clifton could make Bell a great option down the road.
"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
Sounds good. Call up Buddy and tell him we've decided he should go after Chad Clifton.
by StroudFanClub on Feb 17, 2010 1:09 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
I dont know if Buddy would trust me
I dont have a thick Southern accent and he seems to be on the same page as Gailey who coincidentally has a thick Southern accent! You don’t happen to be from Oklahoma by any chance?
"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
Haha, no, Western New York, but you did just give me an idea on an entirely different topic:
Maybe Sam Bradford is more “endearing” to Nix and Gailey since he was born/played for Oklahoma……just a thought
by StroudFanClub on Feb 17, 2010 1:15 PM EST up reply actions
I'm a Northerner too
and i personally prefer Southern QBs. Maybe its just because Peyton Manning, Eli Manning, Brett Favre, and Drew Brees are all Southerners.
"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
I prefer my QB's come from California... :(
They are hard to play but not hard to beat.
- Mike Lombardi on the Buffalo Bills
hahahha, well you might get to watch another year of one....
"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
another year or more if we draft Jack-Jack (Clausen)
If we end up with Vick, T.O., Richie I., and Porter….that is really pushing the dbag density limit for one team.
Sounds like a job for me
After living in North Carolina I now have a southern accent. Let me do it,let me do it.
hahah! deal!
now remember, Buddy looks like he has a short temper so if you feel like hes about to back hand you, get out of there!!
"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
eh i got you both beat.
im from south ga. when you get me around some of my friends, you probably wouldnt even understand us…
Buffalo, that's where it's at baby. - Adam 'Pacman' Jones
by silverstreak3k on Feb 17, 2010 1:25 PM EST up reply actions
I would
I was stationed at Ft Stewart and Fort benning for a while. If you stopped making sense I’d just start yelling WHAT!!!! Really really loudly.
so while the two of you and Nix negotiated
no one would understand. Essentially its like a closed door deal.
"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
i still think trading for vick
and signing him to a 3-4 year contract is the way to go at qb. he would keep plays alive in our crappy offense and bring about the maturation of nelson. hes got the arm to handle buffalo, and he wants to prove hes a starter. draft a guy this year or next and let him sit behind vick for 2-3 years…..perfect. in my opinion.
Buffalo, that's where it's at baby. - Adam 'Pacman' Jones
I find it so interesting that so many people are whole heartedly against Pennington. I think he is the perfect 1 yr stop gap. Who can argue with how cerbral the guy is? And right now there isn’t a single QB on our roster that can help a QB develop. I mean everyone saw how everyone reacted from the switch from Edwards to Fitz – and Pennington is better…
I was born in Buffalo, and NO, it's not a suburb of New York City
I am not against Pennington...
I know he is a slight upgrade over our current QBs. Some may argue that it is more than a slight upgrade, but I dont think he is much more than a more agressive TE with less arm strength. I would rather give TE another shot, if we lose, then we will have a good draft pick. The last thing I want is for Pennington to be signed, named the starter, we go 7-9 and miss out on the good QBs again in the draft.
by NorCal BillsFan on Feb 17, 2010 5:50 PM EST up reply actions
Pennington would be a good mentor for a young QB
2009 NY Phin PhansFantasy League Champion
2009 Best Regular Season Record in NYPPL.
2010 The Jim Mandich NewsFlash Award Winner.
What do you guys think about these FAs?
Kevin Mawae is trying to get his release…he is easily an upgrade over Hangman.
Jarvis Green is an upgrade over Spencer Johnson/Ryan Denney IMO (but I would be happy for these two to be backups though).
Jimmy Kennedy is a good idea if Nix and Edwards think he has the stuff to man the NT, I don’t know enough to say either way.
Bryan Robinson is not a guy I am impressed with at all, plus he is what like 35-36 yrs old. I would rather take a stab at Gabe Watson (26yrs old, 6-4 340). He is much stronger at the POA and is coming off a freak accident at the Cardinals training facility so they may not try to retain him. He was selected in the 4th rd, so that would be a higher-than-desireable pick to give up for him if he gets that level of tender.
Larry Foote is a must sign IMO, not a must as in we need him to play every down or even most downs, but as a mentor to Poz and hopefully McClain : )
The TEs: I would be happy going after Sean Ryan (6-5 260), Ben Hartsock (6-4 270), or Will Heller (6-6 275) as pure blocking TEs. I mean these guys are HUGE, but they are also between 5-7 yrs in the league. Not too old, but experienced. Some blocking type TEs in the draft I wouldn’t mind taking a late round flyer on include: Colin Peek (Ala), Michael Hoomanawanui (Ill), Nate Byham (Pit), Tony Moeaki (Iowa), Greg Smith (Tex), Lee Smith (Mar), Greg Boone (VT) or Mike Owen (Syr).
by NorCal BillsFan on Feb 17, 2010 6:18 PM EST reply actions
My opinions:
Would really like the upgrade Mawae would provide, at least for a year or two while a more permanent replacement could be found. Can you believe the guy played all 16 games last year at age 39? Impressive.
Gabe Watson is a guy I def wouldn’t mind taking a chance on. There is some talent there, I don’t think it’s too late for him to realize it. And it wouldn’t cost too much to find out.
I’m not as convinced about the need for Larry Foote, but you do bring up a good point about him mentoring Poz. Hopefully that is what Mitchell is doing, though.
Kennedy, Robinson, Green are all “eh” for me. Don’t really care either way.
by StroudFanClub on Feb 17, 2010 6:38 PM EST up reply actions
I’ll pass on Mawae. He’s not going to be here for the long haul and I’d rather have Hang or Wood be our pivot.
Kennedy is an interesting idea.
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by MattRichWarren on Feb 17, 2010 9:16 PM EST up reply actions
Completely Agree!
Let Dan Snyder waste his money, like he did with Albert Haynesworth – You build a winning organization in a small market through the draft and adding depth.
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