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Lande: Bills looking at pass rushers early

One of the coolest things about SB Nation is that unexpected, incredibly pertinent and legitimate information can come from virtually anywhere. We owe big props to RIP058 this morning for the excellent information he dug up in his Q&A with former NFL scout Russ Lande. You'll want to read that whole Q&A if you haven't, folks.

Taken directly from the Q&A, here's that incredibly pertinent and legitimate Buffalo Bills information: Lande reports that the Bills, led by GM Buddy Nix, are targeting front seven defenders, in particular pass rushers, early in the 2010 NFL Draft.

"I've spoken with scouts and other personnel inside the Bills organization and they told me their top priority is front 7 and more specifically, pass rushers," Lande said. "They need pass rushers and don't be surprised when they draft a dominant pass rusher in the first round."

This comes with all the usual caveats: we're still a month away from the draft; the Bills are keenly aware that they have other needs elsewhere (QB, LT, NT - and Lande himself believes the Bills should target LT early); this doesn't mean that it's a lock that the team will force any one position early in the first round; it's entirely possible this is some sort of smoke screen. But citing sources directly from Buffalo's front office certainly makes this an interesting talking point.

Should the Bills target pass rushers early, one name certain to garner speculation is Georgia Tech DE Derrick Morgan. A favorite of Lande's, the 6'3", 266-pound Morgan is widely considered the best pure DE available this year, and some scouts believe he can play OLB in the 3-4. Morgan was recruited to Tech by current Bills head coach Chan Gailey, and his position coach at Tech was current Bills defensive line coach Giff Smith.

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Makes sense...in a way

I won’t say that Buffalo doesn’t need pass rushers-clearly they do. I just tend to think they need some of those other postions (LT, NT) a bit more than they need a pass rusher.

That said, if this is true it might be a commentary on what the Bills really think about guys like Aaron Maybin’s ability to get to the QB and whether Aaron Schobel is likely to retire or not. They could be aware of a bigger hole than fans are aware of.

by FrankL on Mar 18, 2010 8:17 AM EDT reply actions  

“I won’t say that Buffalo doesn’t need pass rushers-clearly they do. I just tend to think they need some of those other postions (LT, NT) a bit more than they need a pass rusher.”

I agree with this completely. It makes sense that OBD thinks we need pass-rushers but I absolutely put LT and NT above that right now. This team has a lot of holes, and an argument can be made for us to address any of the 4 or maybe even 5 holes with the first pick (I’m thinking LT, NT, pass-rushing LB, QB, and maybe even WR). Heck we saw good arguments to draft Spiller with the first pick. But when it comes down to it, it would simply be too egregious to ignore NT or LT in the first round. These are just my thoughts. Nix has had good history with drafting linemen in later rounds and that is somewhat encouraging if they do go with a pass-rusher early.

by Renegade23 on Mar 18, 2010 11:24 AM EDT up reply actions  

Can you imagine the outcry if

The Bills take ANOTHER DE in the first round, and its a guy Gailey coached in college? Charges of favoritism and ignorance passing up a top LT or DT (or dare I say QB) that will surelý be on the board.

As long as they don’t take a kicker or punter I’ll be happy, Chix deserves the benefit of doubt in their first draft.

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by BillsNYC on Mar 18, 2010 8:18 AM EDT via mobile reply actions  

I certainly hope there isn’t an outcry if the Bills take a pass rusher in the first round. To be successful in the NFL, you need a QB, you need to protect that QB, and you need to get to the other team’s QB. The Bills suck at all three – which is not surprising given their past record.

Over the past three years, the Bills have finished 29th, 28th, and 18th in sacks. And while Aaron Schobel would be quick to point out that it’s not all about sacks, I think we can all agree that the Bills suck at putting pressure on the QB. That whole issue is exacerbated by the fact the Bills have switched defensive schemes and the only remotely talented and proven pass rusher on their team is considering retirement.

Sireric has repeatedly made a pant-less plea for fans to accept essentially any talented player the Bills select in this year’s draft. I echo his thoughts 100% (although less frequently and behind a curtain of pants). This team is so devoid of talent that anyone with a sniff of it at any position should be given the key to the city welcomed with open arms. The fact that OLB happens to be a position of need as well is icing on the cake.

Bill Polian and AJ Smith are gone, so there's not the usual balance between "sane" and "others." Ralph has mentally checked out since 1994. It's a very dangerous time. The coalition for reason is extremely weak.

by thatguy34 on Mar 18, 2010 8:50 AM EDT up reply actions  

Over the past three years, the Bills have finished 29th, 28th, and 18th in sacks

And how much of that is due to the fact that team’s consistently run all over us. IMO a lot of those low sack number’s come from that fact. Why throw when you can run after all.

by mob16151 on Mar 18, 2010 9:15 AM EDT up reply actions  

Ahh, that’s a good point mob. Didn’t mean to oversimplify it. So, just to be sure, I double checked.

Over that three year period, the Bills faced the 15th most pass attempts. (1,578 pass attempts against)

Over that three year period, the Bills were 29th in sacks in the NFL. (82 sacks)

And the most telling stat:

Over that three year period, the Bills were 30th in Sacks per Pass Attempts Against. (1 sack for every 19.2 pass attempts against).

Pretty disgusting stuff.

Bill Polian and AJ Smith are gone, so there's not the usual balance between "sane" and "others." Ralph has mentally checked out since 1994. It's a very dangerous time. The coalition for reason is extremely weak.

by thatguy34 on Mar 18, 2010 9:34 AM EDT up reply actions  

No I agree that our pass rush is pretty pathetic

But I still feel a change in scheme,a change in coaching staff and an improvement in run defense will improve our pass rush. I mean how many of us have watched our corners sitting 10 yards off a WR on third and 3. And if were all honest DJ’s game planning was pretty horrible. And with our undersized almost everything, our defense tended to get worn down and ineffective, against both the run and the pass.

by mob16151 on Mar 18, 2010 9:39 AM EDT up reply actions  

Absolutely agree. An improvement in the run defense will improve the pass rush and vice versa.

Bill Polian and AJ Smith are gone, so there's not the usual balance between "sane" and "others." Ralph has mentally checked out since 1994. It's a very dangerous time. The coalition for reason is extremely weak.

by thatguy34 on Mar 18, 2010 9:45 AM EDT up reply actions  

Wow I knew it was bad...

but I didn’t know it was like that!

by telka on Mar 18, 2010 10:28 AM EDT up reply actions  

I thought things were gonna be different...
Sireric has repeatedly made a pant-less plea for fans to accept essentially any talented player the Bills select in this year’s draft.

Eric, one question: How long have you been going pantless on draft day? If you say, “Since the Music City Miracle”, it’s time to put the slacks back on… : )

by NorCal BillsFan on Mar 18, 2010 6:32 PM EDT up reply actions  

OBD has made it clear that they don’t care what other people think.

by Bob on Mar 21, 2010 1:14 PM EDT up reply actions  

Quite an interesting development. It is about time we get pressure on the QB. Will be nice to generate a rush which will hopefully lead to turnovers. I’m really happy about the direction this D has headed in the past 48 hours.

However this news also outlines what the Bills are thinking as far as QB and the other two large positional needs. If these rumors are true, then the second round of the draft is going to be the most exciting and interesting. I’m of the belief that the Bills will not be drafting a QB in this draft. If this is correct, then whether or not the Bills will choose a NT or LT in the second round.

by BillsfanDan on Mar 18, 2010 8:47 AM EDT reply actions  

BillsNYC: I'm not saying this is the right way to go but...

If they did end up going for DM then it wouldn’t be such a bad idea surely? For starters they will know his strengths and weaknesses, and the potential he possesses. They will be getting a product they know without any unpleasent suprises. Bear in mind that charcter as well as ability, is a massive factor in drafting footballers and they will know his inside out.

by Kill_Bill on Mar 18, 2010 8:51 AM EDT reply actions  

Bill – if you click reply on a specific comment, you won’t have to specify who you’re replying to every time out. :)

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by Brian Galliford on Mar 18, 2010 9:05 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions  

If what he says is true.......

Do they think the Front 5 of the O is good enuf???

I understand a strong def and maybe they think with a run first mentality, but to not be on the hunt for at least a good LT doesnt make sense.

Unless they billieve in the players we have on the OL. And if they do…….

by MikeEverett08 on Mar 18, 2010 9:01 AM EDT reply actions  

This ends up being a reply to you…but can apply to a large number of people here…

The NFL draft format hasn’t changed. Still 7 rounds. And I believe (someone correct me if I’m wrong), the Bills have 9 picks this year. Picking an OLB in the first round does not preclude the Bills from selecting a tackle in the 2nd, 3rd, or any other round. And contrary to popular belief, you can get starters in the rounds after the first.

Bill Polian and AJ Smith are gone, so there's not the usual balance between "sane" and "others." Ralph has mentally checked out since 1994. It's a very dangerous time. The coalition for reason is extremely weak.

by thatguy34 on Mar 18, 2010 9:16 AM EDT up reply actions  

Word?

Just messin around. Yea I agree that fact does sometimes get over looked around here.

by mob16151 on Mar 18, 2010 9:19 AM EDT up reply actions  

And I agree......

My thought is tho that if you are going into the deeper rounds for a LT then we may just stick with what we have and hope they learn.

I think a pass rusher would be great, dont get me wrong, but fishing in the late rounds for a great LT is not as likely as a stud early in the draft.

He said in the early rounds they are looking for D. That is my only issue. I would say Rd 1, 2, and 3 we may be best suited to take the BPA at LT, QB, NT or OLB, IMO.

by MikeEverett08 on Mar 18, 2010 9:26 AM EDT up reply actions  

I would say Rd 1, 2, and 3 we may be best suited to take the BPA at LT, QB, NT or OLB, IMO.

Absolutely agree. But this article only says they might be looking at pass rushers in the first round. Which still leaves round 2 and 3 to fill one of those other holes.

Unfortunately, the Bills simply have too many holes to fill with one draft. As long as they use their first three picks trying to fill any of those four holes, I’ll be happy.

Bill Polian and AJ Smith are gone, so there's not the usual balance between "sane" and "others." Ralph has mentally checked out since 1994. It's a very dangerous time. The coalition for reason is extremely weak.

by thatguy34 on Mar 18, 2010 9:37 AM EDT up reply actions  

I apologize in advance...
…fill any of those four holes, I’ll be happy.

TWSS

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"...BUT anyting is possible come draft DAY HOW many times we all say this is the guy we ae getting and BANGGGGG EVERYbody is in a state of SHOCK CAUSE frutty Pebles snack BANG bang CEREAL Coach just went the other way COCCOA PUFF nutty NUT craker Umpa Lumpa on all of the FANS Band wagon Kraken Dibede POP" - abayarde

by TheAfghanTwilight on Mar 18, 2010 9:48 AM EDT up reply actions  

TWTS

Buffalo Rumblings Premiere League 2009 Champion
Song recommendation of the week: Ween - Bananas & Blow

"...BUT anyting is possible come draft DAY HOW many times we all say this is the guy we ae getting and BANGGGGG EVERYbody is in a state of SHOCK CAUSE frutty Pebles snack BANG bang CEREAL Coach just went the other way COCCOA PUFF nutty NUT craker Umpa Lumpa on all of the FANS Band wagon Kraken Dibede POP" - abayarde

by TheAfghanTwilight on Mar 18, 2010 9:57 AM EDT up reply actions  

Damn it! I said it and didn’t even notice!

Bill Polian and AJ Smith are gone, so there's not the usual balance between "sane" and "others." Ralph has mentally checked out since 1994. It's a very dangerous time. The coalition for reason is extremely weak.

by thatguy34 on Mar 18, 2010 9:55 AM EDT up reply actions  

I don’t know about this.(If it’s not a smoke screen) Seems to me LT and NT are more important, especially with Maybin not really being given a chance.

"This is what happens Larry!, This is what happens! "-Walter Sobchak

by BigEasyBillsKrewe on Mar 18, 2010 9:02 AM EDT reply actions  

smoke screen?

Agree. These guys have been making moves that have caught everyone off guard. I sense these guys are serious players who know the value of a head fake, false info, etc. This info is just too straight up to be reliable.

Playing country dumb.

by oompaloompa on Mar 18, 2010 11:30 AM EDT up reply actions  

Well then...

Now the Tebow workout makes sense… ; P

by NorCal BillsFan on Mar 18, 2010 6:34 PM EDT up reply actions  

Re:

I refuse to rip draft picks until after they’ve at least competed in pro uniforms in some capacity, but I’m not at all impressed with “some scouts believe he can play outside linebacker in the 3-4.” Philosophically, for a team with limited resources, it makes a a ton of sense to draft your projected OLBs who played DE in college in the middle rounds. According to Wade Phillips, one of the benefits of the 3-4 defense is that the linebackers "are a little bit cheaper, and you can find more of them," while "it’s harder to find defensive linemen to play a 4-3 and pay for all of them." Frankly, taking yet another finesse type of player in the top 12 screams of more of the same from OBD and while I wouldn’t rip the pick in April 2010, I’m 66% sure I’d be ripping the pick by January 2011.

Just say no...to Trent Edwards at QB.

by Port Royal on Mar 18, 2010 9:02 AM EDT reply actions  

Derrick Morgan is anything but finesse. And I don’t hear Phillips complaining about the massive salaries of his 2 first round picks at OLB.

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by Brian Galliford on Mar 18, 2010 9:08 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions  

Finesse players are hoold ornaments and you should target them once you know you have a reliable car. Phillips has a reliable car…I would certainly call the pass rushers in a 3-4 defense a finesse position. I’d equate taking Morgan to taking Spiller or Dez Bryant. Draft picks are like lottery tickets no matter what so you can’t grade them out the day afterwards, but philosophically, I’d argue that it’s a backwards way to build a franchise that has very little in terms of true building blocks in place.

Just say no...to Trent Edwards at QB.

by Port Royal on Mar 18, 2010 9:16 AM EDT up reply actions  

I think I agree with your general argument. I’m just not sure I’d describe guys like Ware, Merriman, Porter, Harrison or Dumervil as “finesse.”

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by Brian Galliford on Mar 18, 2010 9:20 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions  

I agree, Brian. When people say “finesse LBer” I think of London Fletcher and Keith Ellison.

Buffalo Rumblings Premiere League 2009 Champion
Song recommendation of the week: Ween - Bananas & Blow

"...BUT anyting is possible come draft DAY HOW many times we all say this is the guy we ae getting and BANGGGGG EVERYbody is in a state of SHOCK CAUSE frutty Pebles snack BANG bang CEREAL Coach just went the other way COCCOA PUFF nutty NUT craker Umpa Lumpa on all of the FANS Band wagon Kraken Dibede POP" - abayarde

by TheAfghanTwilight on Mar 18, 2010 9:50 AM EDT up reply actions  

Completely different IMO
I’d equate taking Morgan to taking Spiller or Dez Bryant.

I wouldn’t, OLB is a need position, HB/WR are not needs yet. WR will be, once we pick a QB. “Brain” believes OLB is our biggest need. I personally, believe that NT is our biggest need, but I hope they wait until the 2nd to get one…OLB at #9 is fine with me if the value is there, grab the BPA at LT, NT, OLB….

You biggest need doesn’t have to come in the first pick…

by NorCal BillsFan on Mar 18, 2010 6:38 PM EDT up reply actions  

I don’t think opposing QBs would call pass rushers finesse players either.

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by kaisertown on Mar 19, 2010 10:38 AM EDT up reply actions  

This is GREAT!!!

I’ve been telling my best friend that the Bills would continue to develop into Buffalo Tech with the selection of Derrick Morgan ever since they started hiring Gailey’s Clan! I’m still not convinced this is true… but I’ve been exchanging emails with several of the webs top Mock Drafters arguing this exact possibility. And, yes, it would definitely mean that they know they need to replace Schobel on that side of the ball and every coach or executive who joins a new team brings in people they trust… coaches and players. It just so happens that Gailey’s people were in the college ranks. Personally, I really hope this isn’t true… but when you’re scared of making a mistake, it’s always safer to go with what you truly know vs. a scouting report on someone else. Would it really surprise Bills fans if they took a player we all believe they went after too early in the draft? It’s like acting surprised when a politician doesn’t deliver on their empty promises… we just fall for it time and time again.

DC Chocolate City!

by djc1877 on Mar 18, 2010 9:03 AM EDT reply actions  

Please note that the Morgan speculation was entirely mine, NOT Lande’s. So don’t freak out. Please.

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by Brian Galliford on Mar 18, 2010 9:09 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions  

Right, hadn’t thought of that, because NYC’s first comment had me thinking the same thing.

"This is what happens Larry!, This is what happens! "-Walter Sobchak

by BigEasyBillsKrewe on Mar 18, 2010 9:14 AM EDT up reply actions  

Kind of like Ralph saying"We didn’t interview them because we didn’t know them…

"This is what happens Larry!, This is what happens! "-Walter Sobchak

by BigEasyBillsKrewe on Mar 18, 2010 9:17 AM EDT up reply actions  

I totally understand...

that Morgan was speculative. That’s all I’m doing, too. I actually like the kid, think he’s going to be a terrific player in the NFL. I just feel that it’s easier finding another quality OLB later in the draft (Rounds 2-4) than a NT or LT. Also, just because these scouts supposedly said they are targeting a pass-rusher high in the draft… it doesn’t mean they plan on picking at #9. For all we know, they could have a tentative deal already in place to move down and pick up some more picks. We really don’t know what may or may not happen yet, obviously. I do think trying to convert a DE to OLB with the #9 pick is a bit of a stretch in this draft, but who cares what I think? They would likely regret that move if they sit still waiting for a NT in the 2nd round and the top 3 are gone by then. San Diego’s move up in the 2nd round in particular scares me… I thought Cody was as good as ours until they traded Whitehurst to Seattle. Great move by AJ Smith, by the way! I personally believe the Bills will trade down from #9, unless someone (possibly Okung?) surprises them by slipping lower than projected. Just my opinion.

DC Chocolate City!

by djc1877 on Mar 18, 2010 12:11 PM EDT up reply actions  

Didn't they get a 3rd for Whitehurst?

If you are assuming that they use that pick as a means to move up, then I understand your concern regarding SD taking Cody, but several other teams may take him too…

by NorCal BillsFan on Mar 18, 2010 6:41 PM EDT up reply actions  

I'm not a draft-nick

but was somewhat surprised by Lande’s assessment of Kindle. I do not recall anyone projecting him that high (9), While some say he’s the best pass rusher in the draft, others say that’s offset by his suspect pass coverage and he’d need quality coaching. But, we did hire “teaching” coaches,

IMO, OL should still be job 1.

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by fansince60 on Mar 18, 2010 9:18 AM EDT reply actions  

Someone told me that the first round will be on a different night from the rest of the draft this year. Is there any truth to that?

"This is what happens Larry!, This is what happens! "-Walter Sobchak

by BigEasyBillsKrewe on Mar 18, 2010 9:25 AM EDT reply actions  

Yes, round 1 on Thursday

Rounds 2-3 on Friday

Rounds 4-7 on Saturday

by Pistol on Mar 18, 2010 9:26 AM EDT up reply actions  

(and thanks Pistol)

"This is what happens Larry!, This is what happens! "-Walter Sobchak

by BigEasyBillsKrewe on Mar 18, 2010 9:32 AM EDT up reply actions  

1st Round is Thursday Night April 22nd

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by RIP058 on Mar 18, 2010 9:27 AM EDT up reply actions  

Wow, thanks RIP

That will change things a lot. I’ve heard the 4th rnd is almost as important as the 1st, because teams have time to find players who “fell through the cracks”Now that will happen even more!

"This is what happens Larry!, This is what happens! "-Walter Sobchak

by BigEasyBillsKrewe on Mar 18, 2010 9:30 AM EDT up reply actions  

Re'd

"This is what happens Larry!, This is what happens! "-Walter Sobchak

by BigEasyBillsKrewe on Mar 18, 2010 9:36 AM EDT up reply actions  

Sorry about my out of order replies. I’m just getting over my atari 800:)

"This is what happens Larry!, This is what happens! "-Walter Sobchak

by BigEasyBillsKrewe on Mar 18, 2010 9:38 AM EDT up reply actions  

After Brian saying yesterday in the draft post he had a hunch that the Bills would value OLB higher than NT this doesn’t surprise me.

The Bills are far enough away from contending for a Super Bowl that they should focus on finding the player that will make the biggest impact regardless of position, and then fill in with stopgaps at the ‘need’ positions (if the impact player isn’t a major ‘need’ position).

Said another way, you don’t pass on a Bruce Smith because you have Stroud and Edwards at DE. Or pass on CJ Spiller because you have Fred Jackson if you think Spiller’s the next Chris Johnson.

Drafting for need gets you Whitner, Lynch and McCargo.

by Pistol on Mar 18, 2010 9:28 AM EDT reply actions  

I don’t think Lynch should be lumped into that group of yours. He had a bad year for very obvious reasons. His head was going to be anything but right for the season and many people seemed to overlook how much the charge and time away would affect his season.

Lynch is someone the team needs. He’s not Purple Jesus, but he’s not Julius Jones either.

Buffalo Rumblings Premiere League 2009 Champion
Song recommendation of the week: Ween - Bananas & Blow

"...BUT anyting is possible come draft DAY HOW many times we all say this is the guy we ae getting and BANGGGGG EVERYbody is in a state of SHOCK CAUSE frutty Pebles snack BANG bang CEREAL Coach just went the other way COCCOA PUFF nutty NUT craker Umpa Lumpa on all of the FANS Band wagon Kraken Dibede POP" - abayarde

by TheAfghanTwilight on Mar 18, 2010 9:55 AM EDT up reply actions  

If you take a RB in the first round he better be a perennial Pro Bowler. Lynch isn’t.

I’m not saying he isn’t useful, but RBs are a dime a dozen in the draft.

by Pistol on Mar 18, 2010 11:02 AM EDT up reply actions  

well, Lynch has 3 seasons under his belt and one Pro Bowl. Don’t you think it might be premature to assume he can’t be a perennial Pro Bowler?

most of my posts get deleted :(

by dzil on Mar 18, 2010 3:51 PM EDT up reply actions  

Not surprising

All teams are continually looking to increase their pass rush. The NFL has for the most part evolved into a passing league so obviously teams will continue to try and improve their pressure on the QB.

As it was mentioned the Bills were ranked 18th in sacks “I think we can all agree that the Bills suck at putting pressure on the QB”. I’m not so sure on that comment, the Bills finished 2nd in the NFL with 28 interceptions behind the Packers with 30. That is an impressive stat considering that the Bills were 30th in rushing defense. The pass rush had to have a major effect on the Bills getting so many Ints.

"Whether or not you write well, write bravely"

by Goose22 on Mar 18, 2010 9:39 AM EDT reply actions  

First round

LT, NT, QB, or bust… I cannot imagine a scenario where we should take anything other than a LT or QB (unless we fill both those needs in FA).

Offensive Tackles will go very fast. They are the safest, most predictable picks. Defensive linemen are a different breed, especially ends… They are significantly less predictable in terms of their NFL ability.

I don’t know how we can defend taking a DE in the first round this year when we utilized our first rounder last year on one… Do we want to be like the Lions and WR’s?

I will let you fill in the gratuitous punch I will take a Modrak should we draft a DL this year… I am still trying to get over that we did not select Oher last year.

I got nothing.

by Jason from OH-IO on Mar 18, 2010 9:54 AM EDT reply actions  

Jason are you going to be online during the draft
LT, NT, QB, or bust… I cannot imagine a scenario where we should take anything other than a LT or QB (unless we fill both those needs in FA).

The reason I askis I’mgoing to be curious to see your reaction’s after we pick. I’m not trying to call you out or anything, I just think your going to end up being dissapointed.

by mob16151 on Mar 18, 2010 9:59 AM EDT up reply actions  

So, if Bradford, Clausen, Okung, Bulaga, and Davis are gone, we HAVE to take Trent Williams?

If that is the case, and it may very well be, you are going to see Dan Williams or Derrick Morgan in Buffalo. I would be pretty content. The fact of the matter is OLB is just as big a need as the three positions you mentioned. Our current projected OLB’ers are Marbin and Schobel. You really feel comfortable with a guy that barely played last year and a guy that may retire in a month?

It'll be just you, me, and Peter Nincompoop.

by BeastMode on Mar 18, 2010 10:00 AM EDT up reply actions  

I'm in the same boat.

Those are the three positions I’d target too. This “BPA” jargon is for teams that already have a solid nucleus in place ie- QB, LT, NT. Buffalo is an emphatic 0 for 3 in that department. I want to see those three holes filled before attacking other areas of the roster with the high picks (especially since Nix has stated that the draft is really the only avenue where you can build your team- agree with him or not).

Just say no...to Trent Edwards at QB.

by Port Royal on Mar 18, 2010 10:03 AM EDT up reply actions  

I have to disagree

IMO that attacking specific areas of need’s approach, lands you player’s like McCargo, like Lynch( who has been something of a dissapointment in his career so far), heck like Losman.

by mob16151 on Mar 18, 2010 10:06 AM EDT up reply actions  

Yeah, 2 1,000 yard seasons and a Pro Bowl, huge disappointment. Just like McCargo.

It'll be just you, me, and Peter Nincompoop.

by BeastMode on Mar 18, 2010 10:10 AM EDT up reply actions  

Really dude

So Lynch isn’t a question mark going into next season? Any time you spend the 12th pick in the draft on a player, and 3 years later he’s a huge question mark, and/or leosthis job to an UDFA he’s a huge freaking dissapointment.

by mob16151 on Mar 18, 2010 10:13 AM EDT up reply actions  

leosthis

Meant loses his job

by mob16151 on Mar 18, 2010 10:14 AM EDT up reply actions  

Not that the latter has been mentioned in any of this yet, but how is Lynch any more of a question mark than Leodis McKelvin? Leodis has shown far less production and reliability on the field thus far, as a 1st round pick.

He hasn’t gotten into any trouble this offseason, and, as i’ve said before, he’s worth so much more to this team as a player than as a bartering chip.

Buffalo Rumblings Premiere League 2009 Champion
Song recommendation of the week: Ween - Bananas & Blow

"...BUT anyting is possible come draft DAY HOW many times we all say this is the guy we ae getting and BANGGGGG EVERYbody is in a state of SHOCK CAUSE frutty Pebles snack BANG bang CEREAL Coach just went the other way COCCOA PUFF nutty NUT craker Umpa Lumpa on all of the FANS Band wagon Kraken Dibede POP" - abayarde

by TheAfghanTwilight on Mar 18, 2010 10:22 AM EDT up reply actions  

Of Buffalo’s first rounders, incredibly, Marshawn has been the most productive pick in the past few years. As for McKelvin, he should of had his chance this past season but it was cut short due to injury. We should see what he really has to offer this season.

It'll be just you, me, and Peter Nincompoop.

by BeastMode on Mar 18, 2010 10:27 AM EDT up reply actions  

I agree that Lynch is worth more to us tas a player than a bargaining chip.

But when you look at Lynch’s draft status, then take his performance into question, I’m unable tosee how anyone can view him as anything less than a dissapointment. I mean hey if we didn’t take Lynch in the top half of the first round, then I wouldn’t be knocking him. But we did, and like it or not his draft status makes him a dissapointment.

by mob16151 on Mar 18, 2010 10:27 AM EDT up reply actions  

And I am unable to see how you can lump him with McCargo and Losman. That comparison just cannot stand. It is absurd.

It'll be just you, me, and Peter Nincompoop.

by BeastMode on Mar 18, 2010 10:29 AM EDT up reply actions  

Well

Just because 2 other guy’s were worse dissapointment’s, doesn’t make Lynch not a dissapointment.

by mob16151 on Mar 18, 2010 10:31 AM EDT up reply actions  

It's kind of like you have 3 turds.

Just because one doesn’t smell as bad as the other 2, doesn’t meanit’s not still a turd.

by mob16151 on Mar 18, 2010 10:33 AM EDT up reply actions  

So

Don’t judge a turd by it’s smell…lol

by buffalobacker on Mar 18, 2010 11:03 AM EDT up reply actions  

The Bills didn’t give up picks to draft Lynch, like they did for Losman and McCargo. They didn’t mortgage the franchise with him. Lynch was considered a great pick, after dealing McGahee.

Buffalo Rumblings Premiere League 2009 Champion
Song recommendation of the week: Ween - Bananas & Blow

"...BUT anyting is possible come draft DAY HOW many times we all say this is the guy we ae getting and BANGGGGG EVERYbody is in a state of SHOCK CAUSE frutty Pebles snack BANG bang CEREAL Coach just went the other way COCCOA PUFF nutty NUT craker Umpa Lumpa on all of the FANS Band wagon Kraken Dibede POP" - abayarde

by TheAfghanTwilight on Mar 18, 2010 10:35 AM EDT up reply actions  

Lynch was considered a great pick

It’s 2010 now though. And let’s say the shine has came off the pick some.

by mob16151 on Mar 18, 2010 10:43 AM EDT up reply actions  

But to say he was a terrible pick is unfair. That’s implying that the organization should have seen it coming. How could anyone see coming what happened? The organization made a pick of a good player. The player made some poor decisions afterward.

Buffalo Rumblings Premiere League 2009 Champion
Song recommendation of the week: Ween - Bananas & Blow

"...BUT anyting is possible come draft DAY HOW many times we all say this is the guy we ae getting and BANGGGGG EVERYbody is in a state of SHOCK CAUSE frutty Pebles snack BANG bang CEREAL Coach just went the other way COCCOA PUFF nutty NUT craker Umpa Lumpa on all of the FANS Band wagon Kraken Dibede POP" - abayarde

by TheAfghanTwilight on Mar 18, 2010 10:50 AM EDT up reply actions  

I'm sorry if I wasunclear

When judging all these pick’s I’m clearly doing it with the benefit of hindsight. I was arguing with beastmode that Lynch as of right now this moment was a terrible pick. At the time I liked both the Lynch,and Losman pick’s. And arguing that with Lynch’s career track so far he can/could be lumped in with the other terrible first round pick’s we’ve made recently.

by mob16151 on Mar 18, 2010 10:54 AM EDT up reply actions  

McCargo should be paying the organization something for keeping him around to do nothing.

Buffalo Rumblings Premiere League 2009 Champion
Song recommendation of the week: Ween - Bananas & Blow

"...BUT anyting is possible come draft DAY HOW many times we all say this is the guy we ae getting and BANGGGGG EVERYbody is in a state of SHOCK CAUSE frutty Pebles snack BANG bang CEREAL Coach just went the other way COCCOA PUFF nutty NUT craker Umpa Lumpa on all of the FANS Band wagon Kraken Dibede POP" - abayarde

by TheAfghanTwilight on Mar 18, 2010 12:31 PM EDT up reply actions  

If, proir to Lynch being drafted, you were told this guy will be a Pro Bowler in one of his first three seasons, you’d jump on the pick. Anyone would. I simply don’t get how the Bills horrible O-line is an excuse for Trent but not for Lynch. And don’t bring the Jackson argument, their two totally different runners. Without decent blocking, a north-south power runner like Lynch is screwed.

most of my posts get deleted :(

by dzil on Mar 18, 2010 4:05 PM EDT up reply actions  

Anyone would. I simply don’t get how the Bills horrible O-line is an excuse for Trent

Umm where did I make that argument? Umm and the Jackson and Lynch are different runner’s argument is flawed. Perhap’s if we all stopped making excuses for Lynch, we’d all be able to see Marshawn for what he is right now, which is a mediocre running back. I’m sorry if that hurt’s people, but it’s true.

by mob16151 on Mar 18, 2010 5:05 PM EDT up reply actions  

Umm, could live without the sarcasm.

Jackson and Lynch being different style runners is not a flawed argument. Sorry if that hurt’s people, but it’s true. Players are like tools, only useful if used properly. Please, correct me if I’m wrong, but I didn’t see very many examples of even remotely intelligent offensive strategy last season. I’m not a big fan of Lynch, but one poor season does not a career make.

most of my posts get deleted :(

by dzil on Mar 18, 2010 5:29 PM EDT up reply actions  

Why are we talking about running backs?

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by Brian Galliford on Mar 18, 2010 6:08 PM EDT up reply actions  

feel free to delete it.

by dzil on Mar 19, 2010 12:53 AM EDT up reply actions  

Wasn't trying to be sacrastic

Was more typing flow of consciousness style.

And for this

I’m not a big fan of Lynch, but one poor season does not a career make.

But his carries have decreased each season, his yards have decreased each year, his YAC’s decreased, and his YPG’s have decreased as well. Which all to me suggest’s a runningback who’s no longer effective.

by mob16151 on Mar 18, 2010 6:09 PM EDT up reply actions  

His OL has been worse each year too. If he gets an improved line, then I’ll consider the argument.

Official ledge-talker-offer of the Buffalo Bills.

by WhyBillsWhy on Mar 18, 2010 9:12 PM EDT up reply actions  

Really

His O line was actually better this year. We lost Fowler,Dockery,Walker, and Peter’s. We gained Hang,Wood, Levitre, and Bell. At least 3 of those 4 guy’s represent a significant upgrade in the running game from the previous season’s O line.

by mob16151 on Mar 19, 2010 12:17 AM EDT up reply actions  

don’t forget the last minute rookie O.C. and a HC change mid-season and a 3 game suspension…

by dzil on Mar 19, 2010 12:56 AM EDT up reply actions  

HC change mid-season

I’d argue this had a less than zero percent effect on his performance. The suspension definetly hurt him, but if anything IMO, I feel he should have came back stronger from that suspension. That’s not what he did obviously. As to the rookie OC, that’s probably what gave him the most fit’s. But once again I don’t feel that’s something that totally excuses his lack of production.

by mob16151 on Mar 19, 2010 1:11 AM EDT up reply actions  

no excuses. just not ready to throw in the towel, yet. I feel the jury’s still out, as with Trent, but not for much longer with either one.

by dzil on Mar 19, 2010 1:18 AM EDT up reply actions  

Ummm

Nothing is really “useful” if used improperly. So I really don’t get your reasoning. confused again!

by buffalobacker on Mar 19, 2010 10:39 PM EDT up reply actions  

nevermind

my post goes about 5 comments to far down….geeeeesh…..

by buffalobacker on Mar 19, 2010 10:41 PM EDT up reply actions  

But why not consider how many other players taken in the 1st round are “disappointments?” It’s not a situation unique to Lynch, or the Bills. If everyone had off-the-charts numbers, then calling someone elite wouldn’t hold as much water. There’s a reason people talk fondly of the Peytons and the APs: they’re exceptional talents.

Buffalo Rumblings Premiere League 2009 Champion
Song recommendation of the week: Ween - Bananas & Blow

"...BUT anyting is possible come draft DAY HOW many times we all say this is the guy we ae getting and BANGGGGG EVERYbody is in a state of SHOCK CAUSE frutty Pebles snack BANG bang CEREAL Coach just went the other way COCCOA PUFF nutty NUT craker Umpa Lumpa on all of the FANS Band wagon Kraken Dibede POP" - abayarde

by TheAfghanTwilight on Mar 18, 2010 10:33 AM EDT up reply actions  

Yeaif the Bill's were usually drafting well in the first round, it wouldn't be that big a deal

But since 2000 the Bill’s top picks in each draft have been Erik Flower’s, Nate Clements,Mike Williams,Willis McGahee,Lee Evans,Roscoe Parrish,Donte Whitner,Marshawn Lynch,Leodis McKelvin,and Aaron Maybin. And in the year’s where the Bill’s have had multiple first rounder’s the bill’s have selected JP Losman,John McCargo, and Eric Wood. Now the busts have been Flowers,Williams,Losman,and McCargo. The dissapointments have been Whitner,Lynch,and McGahee.(mainly for running himself outof buffalo), and to a certain extent Evans. That means that you can argue that we’ve made one really good draft pick in the first round in 7 year’s in Nate Clement’s. And that’s horrible for any team. I’m not going to judge Maybin,McKelvin, or Wood yet because IMO it’s to soon to tell.

by mob16151 on Mar 18, 2010 11:23 AM EDT up reply actions  

I’d say Buffalo really got McGahee’s best years out of him…as a feature back.

I’d say to a large extent, Evans has been a disappointment. He seems unable to do much to create separation apart from running for the sandlot. Personally, I need to see more out of him this year, and he will be the one player I watch with as much curiosity as I do Maybin.

Buffalo Rumblings Premiere League 2009 Champion
Song recommendation of the week: Ween - Bananas & Blow

"...BUT anyting is possible come draft DAY HOW many times we all say this is the guy we ae getting and BANGGGGG EVERYbody is in a state of SHOCK CAUSE frutty Pebles snack BANG bang CEREAL Coach just went the other way COCCOA PUFF nutty NUT craker Umpa Lumpa on all of the FANS Band wagon Kraken Dibede POP" - abayarde

by TheAfghanTwilight on Mar 18, 2010 12:33 PM EDT up reply actions  

Agreed

Evans has been a dissapointment except for his rookie season. But how much of that stem’s from incompetent QB play? That’s why I argue he’s been a bust only, to a lesser extent.

by mob16151 on Mar 18, 2010 12:42 PM EDT up reply actions  

kinda hard to catch balls that aren’t there, isn’t it? I think some of your bust labels border on ludicrous.

most of my posts get deleted :(

by dzil on Mar 18, 2010 4:07 PM EDT up reply actions  

Well

I dfunno what to tell you, but Evans has been in the league since 2004. He’s had1 elite season in 2006, and one decent season in 2008. The rest of his time in the league has been average to mediocre. I hate to say this, but take off your rose colored Bills shades, and try looking at the player’s objectively. A career average of 3.5 reception’s a game is mediocre. I’msorry for ya and all but it’s true.

by mob16151 on Mar 18, 2010 5:12 PM EDT up reply actions  

I forgot, who were the capable QB’s throwing passes in Evan’s direction? waiting…

most of my posts get deleted :(

by dzil on Mar 18, 2010 5:32 PM EDT up reply actions  

do you mean the J.P. Losman that just won a championship ring last year? The soon to be starting QB of the Oakland Raiders? Sorry, I couldn’t resist :-)

by dzil on Mar 19, 2010 1:00 AM EDT up reply actions  

Well in 2006 with that Losman

Evans had something like 82 receptions and 9 touchdowns. Which was far and away his best overall season as a pro.

by mob16151 on Mar 19, 2010 1:12 AM EDT up reply actions  

take a look at some other, equally craptastic, QB’s/OL’s in the league and let me know their WR’s great stats.

by dzil on Mar 19, 2010 1:20 AM EDT up reply actions  

Calvin Johnson

Is the godwin to that argument.

by mob16151 on Mar 19, 2010 11:25 AM EDT up reply actions  

so your saying Stafford, Culpepper and Kitna aren’t any better than Trent, Fitz and J.P.? I’d gladly take that trade.

by dzil on Mar 19, 2010 7:23 PM EDT up reply actions  

I'm saying that right now it's a draw

Stafford has the potential to be great, but hasn’t done it yet. And I’d honestly take any of the 3 Bills QB’s you named over Kitna, or Culpepper.

by mob16151 on Mar 20, 2010 6:39 AM EDT up reply actions  

Calvin Johnson had one year with Kitna and then put up 1,300 yards in 2008 with Dan Orlovsky. I wouldn’t call rookie Matt Stafford as better than what we have either.

That said, Calvin Johnson is clearly the exception. He’s one of the truely elite athletes and players in football. Brandon Marshall just had a huge year with mediocre Kyle Orton. Vernon Davis finally exploded with Hill and Smith. Steve Smith had a great 2007 with guys like Vinny Testeverde throwing the football. But it’s a really short list of receivers that have done well with bad quarterbacks.

I think what we can take from Evans’ lack of success with Edwards is that he’s not one of the games top 10 WRs like we hoped he would develop into. With a good QB, he still might be a consistent 1,000 yard per season player though.

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

by kaisertown on Mar 20, 2010 11:27 AM EDT up reply actions  

And

And you haven’t given up on Trent? Now your calling him incapable!

by buffalobacker on Mar 19, 2010 10:44 PM EDT up reply actions  

he’s proven to be incapable, save for a very few exceptions. Doesn’t mean a new staff can’t get his ship righted, does it?

by dzil on Mar 20, 2010 12:57 AM EDT up reply actions  

Nope

Not at all , just kinda wishy washy on your opinion of Trent. One statement saying he’s incapable followed by another saying he can be capable. I quess it just depends if it fits your arguement or not at that time. Hopefully FO has a firm opinion of Trent’s abilities! Personnally I think it’s time for a change at QB, if draft allows…

by buffalobacker on Mar 20, 2010 11:10 AM EDT up reply actions  

Or you could argue that “BPA” over the cornerstone positions lands you Whitner, Lynch, McKelvin, Maybin…one philosophy over the other doesn’t necessarily guarantee you’ll get the picks right…that’s where having a good scouting department comes in (crickets). The only guarantee out there is that drafting DBs, RBs and pass rushers over QBs, LTs, and NTs leaves you looking for QBs and NTs next year too…somewhere in the top 12.

Just say no...to Trent Edwards at QB.

by Port Royal on Mar 18, 2010 10:13 AM EDT up reply actions  

Whitner was not BPA. He would have been about 10 picks or so later in the first.

It'll be just you, me, and Peter Nincompoop.

by BeastMode on Mar 18, 2010 10:18 AM EDT up reply actions  

According to OBD he BPA…whether you, I, other NFL franchises, Mel Kiper, or anyone else agrees is a completely different argument. Buffalo believed that Whitner was the BPA at 8 in the 2006 draft…the man responsible for scouting that draft is still employed by the team (time for my 10:20am beer).

Just say no...to Trent Edwards at QB.

by Port Royal on Mar 18, 2010 10:21 AM EDT up reply actions  

I disagree, I believe the chose BPA by need position. That said, I am sick of this team reaching just to fill need.

It'll be just you, me, and Peter Nincompoop.

by BeastMode on Mar 18, 2010 10:24 AM EDT up reply actions  

He was BWA

Best Whitner Available

~K
"As the governor of Louisiana once said, the only way Chris Kelsay can lose his job is if he got caught in bed with a dead girl or a live boy."

by Kurupt on Mar 18, 2010 11:01 AM EDT up reply actions  

So

BWA can’t be that crowded of a field. lol

by mob16151 on Mar 18, 2010 11:07 AM EDT up reply actions  

I tend to agree

But wouldn’t be upset by the pass rusher pick. We obviously need a healthy upgrade there.

I think we need to see what we have in Maybin first, while spending a 2nd or 3rd on a pass rushing OLB. Let’s fill one of our bigger holes in the 1st, and go after multiple rushers afterwards.

I will let you fill in the gratuitous punch I will take a Modrak should we draft a DL this year… I am still trying to get over that we did not select Oher last year.

Seriously dude. GIVE IT UP. Modrak didn’t pick Maybin last year. He didn’t pass on Oher. He led the SCOUTING of those guys. How do you know he didn’t have Oher rated extremely high? It’s beyond annoying that you are including Modrak in everything now, when he has nothing to do with the argument you are trying to make. You guy from talking about needing to go after the best QB, LT, or NT in the 1st, which many would agree with, to talking about punching Modrak and missing out on Oher. What if you were told Modrak wanted Oher, but was overruled by Jauron and friends? Come on man, let it go.

~K
"As the governor of Louisiana once said, the only way Chris Kelsay can lose his job is if he got caught in bed with a dead girl or a live boy."

by Kurupt on Mar 18, 2010 11:00 AM EDT up reply actions   2 recs

The dude abides.

Buffalo Rumblings Premiere League 2009 Champion
Song recommendation of the week: Ween - Bananas & Blow

"...BUT anyting is possible come draft DAY HOW many times we all say this is the guy we ae getting and BANGGGGG EVERYbody is in a state of SHOCK CAUSE frutty Pebles snack BANG bang CEREAL Coach just went the other way COCCOA PUFF nutty NUT craker Umpa Lumpa on all of the FANS Band wagon Kraken Dibede POP" - abayarde

by TheAfghanTwilight on Mar 18, 2010 12:34 PM EDT up reply actions  

There's one more avenue to this building a 3-4.

Once all the pieces are put in place, we have to be able to perform. Pressuring the experienced Brady, and confusing the young minds of Sanchez and Henne. I don’t disagree with you, but I would wager that Chix is thinking beyond the building mode. That’s why this is not a far fetched idea going after the top pass rusher. My whole thing on this is the #9 pick cannot be a reach. We either go all in on Suh or Bradford or take BPA at position of need at #9. That could be Spiller, McClain, Bryant, Morgan, Thomas whomever. We have many needs and that pick could solidify that spot long term and even build additional draft picks in 2011.

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.

by VanScottM on Mar 18, 2010 6:52 PM EDT up reply actions  

If Davis and Morgan are the only 2 potential elite players, in a critical need position, I’d expect whichever falls to #9 to be a Bill. That’s how you build championship teams, not by just taking the best leftover that fills your biggest need. I’d rather have a couple elites mixed with stop-gaps, then have a collection of just mediocre players.

most of my posts get deleted :(

by dzil on Mar 18, 2010 3:57 PM EDT up reply actions  

Do we want to be like the Lions and WR’s?

If we end up with the Calvin Johnson of pass rushers, then yes. Their mistake wasn’t taking WRs after drafting busts at the position, it was drafting busts in the first place. They were criticized for taking Johnson after all the other WRs, but in the end it was a great pick.

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

by kaisertown on Mar 19, 2010 10:46 AM EDT up reply actions  

OT'S SAFEST MOST PREDICTABLE PICKS

 Does the name Mike Williams ring a bell

by Bob on Mar 21, 2010 1:23 PM EDT up reply actions  

Im assuming 3-4 OLB's then?

What does this mean for Maybin? and… does this possably mean Schobel has told them hes done?

This must mean they are a little nervous that Maybin cant do it… ?

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Whens it gonna be Sabres-Offense Time?"
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by bflo on Mar 18, 2010 10:21 AM EDT reply actions  

I’d say it means they don’t intend on allowing Schobel to hold them hostage and that yes, it might be dangerous to presume Maybin “gets it” as an OLB.

Buffalo Rumblings Premiere League 2009 Champion
Song recommendation of the week: Ween - Bananas & Blow

"...BUT anyting is possible come draft DAY HOW many times we all say this is the guy we ae getting and BANGGGGG EVERYbody is in a state of SHOCK CAUSE frutty Pebles snack BANG bang CEREAL Coach just went the other way COCCOA PUFF nutty NUT craker Umpa Lumpa on all of the FANS Band wagon Kraken Dibede POP" - abayarde

by TheAfghanTwilight on Mar 18, 2010 10:24 AM EDT up reply actions  

Well, after those guys, there really isn’t much else, other than Kelsey. Subtract Schobel and it is really thin at OLB.

It'll be just you, me, and Peter Nincompoop.

by BeastMode on Mar 18, 2010 10:28 AM EDT up reply actions  

Kelsay for Pro Bowl 2011!

Buffalo Rumblings Premiere League 2009 Champion
Song recommendation of the week: Ween - Bananas & Blow

"...BUT anyting is possible come draft DAY HOW many times we all say this is the guy we ae getting and BANGGGGG EVERYbody is in a state of SHOCK CAUSE frutty Pebles snack BANG bang CEREAL Coach just went the other way COCCOA PUFF nutty NUT craker Umpa Lumpa on all of the FANS Band wagon Kraken Dibede POP" - abayarde

by TheAfghanTwilight on Mar 18, 2010 10:29 AM EDT up reply actions  

err, 2010.

Buffalo Rumblings Premiere League 2009 Champion
Song recommendation of the week: Ween - Bananas & Blow

"...BUT anyting is possible come draft DAY HOW many times we all say this is the guy we ae getting and BANGGGGG EVERYbody is in a state of SHOCK CAUSE frutty Pebles snack BANG bang CEREAL Coach just went the other way COCCOA PUFF nutty NUT craker Umpa Lumpa on all of the FANS Band wagon Kraken Dibede POP" - abayarde

by TheAfghanTwilight on Mar 18, 2010 10:29 AM EDT up reply actions  

Yes!

~K
"As the governor of Louisiana once said, the only way Chris Kelsay can lose his job is if he got caught in bed with a dead girl or a live boy."

by Kurupt on Mar 18, 2010 11:02 AM EDT up reply actions  

I'm guessing

drafting Morgan would mean he and Maybin could share homework assignments. Since both would be DE’s trying to transition to OLB.

most of my posts get deleted :(

by dzil on Mar 18, 2010 4:12 PM EDT up reply actions  

Riiiiiiiiight.

It'll be just you, me, and Peter Nincompoop.

by BeastMode on Mar 18, 2010 10:30 AM EDT up reply actions  

Yes!

~K
"As the governor of Louisiana once said, the only way Chris Kelsay can lose his job is if he got caught in bed with a dead girl or a live boy."

by Kurupt on Mar 18, 2010 11:02 AM EDT up reply actions  

I think we all have been assuming Maybin automatically starts, but we need to realistically consider the fact that he is still very young and now he will need to learn a new position. He is very athletic, but I think they definitely don’t want to be relying on him and then if he gets hurt or struggles this year then what?

www.Foundation58.org - "Helping Those Who Help Us" in the fight against cancer.

by RIP058 on Mar 18, 2010 10:24 AM EDT up reply actions  

But wouldn’t Maybin be at least just as far along as a rookie this year who played DE in college and would now be asked to transition to LB?

Buffalo Rumblings Premiere League 2009 Champion
Song recommendation of the week: Ween - Bananas & Blow

"...BUT anyting is possible come draft DAY HOW many times we all say this is the guy we ae getting and BANGGGGG EVERYbody is in a state of SHOCK CAUSE frutty Pebles snack BANG bang CEREAL Coach just went the other way COCCOA PUFF nutty NUT craker Umpa Lumpa on all of the FANS Band wagon Kraken Dibede POP" - abayarde

by TheAfghanTwilight on Mar 18, 2010 10:29 AM EDT up reply actions  

depends on the player. So far Maybin’s ability to adapt and develop hasn’t been too inspiring.

most of my posts get deleted :(

by dzil on Mar 18, 2010 4:14 PM EDT up reply actions  

Makes no sense - Bigger needs

- We have Shoebel, Kelsey, signed Edwards from the Ravens, Ellis, and supposedly Stroud will play end now.
- What was the point in drafting Maybin – I thought he was going to be the pass-rusher we needed.

  • - If anything, we need Linebackers, such as Rolando McCain from Alabama!!!!
    • - Granted, Derrick Morgan is a great pass rusher, who makes sense if Schobel retires. But I would take best available Tackle, Linebacker, and even CJ Spiller if he is there – Part ways with Lynch.

by BuffaloWhiner on Mar 18, 2010 10:31 AM EDT reply actions  

Edwards, Stroud,etc are there to take up blockers, not rush the passer. Schobel is no guarantee to return.

ILB is full with Poz, Davis, and Mitchell.

I really don’t see how people think we are deep at OLB. Maybin and Kelsey, really?

It'll be just you, me, and Peter Nincompoop.

by BeastMode on Mar 18, 2010 10:37 AM EDT up reply actions  

And focusing on ‘biggest need’ on a bad team is a good way to remain a bad team.

I swear, sometimes I think people would rather fill a need and go 7-9 then take the best player and go 6-10 next year, but be much better positioned for the 5 years after that.

by Pistol on Mar 18, 2010 11:07 AM EDT up reply actions  

Pistol, the problem with this logic is that the team is loaded with needs at every position. So are they to remain a bad team because they have to address needs across the board? This isn’t meant to be chideful, this is an honest question.

Buffalo Rumblings Premiere League 2009 Champion
Song recommendation of the week: Ween - Bananas & Blow

"...BUT anyting is possible come draft DAY HOW many times we all say this is the guy we ae getting and BANGGGGG EVERYbody is in a state of SHOCK CAUSE frutty Pebles snack BANG bang CEREAL Coach just went the other way COCCOA PUFF nutty NUT craker Umpa Lumpa on all of the FANS Band wagon Kraken Dibede POP" - abayarde

by TheAfghanTwilight on Mar 18, 2010 12:37 PM EDT up reply actions  

If they’re loaded with needs at every position, then there’s no excuse for targeting positions. Go with BPA, period. Trying to fill every hole in one draft will most likely leave you with a collection of garbage.

most of my posts get deleted :(

by dzil on Mar 18, 2010 4:17 PM EDT up reply actions  

Whiner, I think you are confused. Schobel & Kelsay would be OLB in the 3-4, not DE’s, same with possibly Ellis if he makes the cut.

So, if you had your OLB’s listed as Schobel (who may or may not be around), Kelsay, Ellis, & Maybin….I think you would be looking for other help as well.

www.Foundation58.org - "Helping Those Who Help Us" in the fight against cancer.

by RIP058 on Mar 18, 2010 11:04 AM EDT up reply actions  

Agreed

Time for Maybin to step up and justify picking him in 1st rd. I know it’s not his fault were he was picked but come on, can he have been less of a factor last year?

by buffalobacker on Mar 18, 2010 11:10 AM EDT up reply actions  

In their defense

They didn’t draft Maybin, so you can’t really criticize them for doubling back on that pick.

That being said, this hardly feels like a ringing endorsement in maybin.

...so I guess now I root for chan gailey...

by JPH on Mar 18, 2010 12:22 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions  

QB's and Pass Rushers take the most time to develop

So it’s ok to me to select the Pass Rusher now, so that by the time they hit their prime, the team will (hopefully) be good.

DT’s and LT’s can start and be pretty good in their first year. Especially LTs. So we can get those guys in future drafts. But Pass Rushers can take a good 3 years to figure it out (Aaron Maybin).

by StroudFanClub on Mar 18, 2010 11:20 AM EDT reply actions  

Brian Cushing might argue with that.

most of my posts get deleted :(

by dzil on Mar 18, 2010 4:19 PM EDT up reply actions  

Brian Cushing is a linebacker. I think you meant Brian Orakpo.

Buffalo Rumblings. On Twitter.
"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take. --Wayne Grezky" --Michael Scott

by Brian Galliford on Mar 18, 2010 4:29 PM EDT up reply actions  

that works too. Both play SLB in 4-3 defenses and have had success rushing the passer as rookies( Cushing 5 sacks, Orakpo 11). don’t know how many snaps at DE vs LB Orakpo had, but I feel both would have been impact players at 3-4 OLB as well.

most of my posts get deleted :(

by dzil on Mar 18, 2010 4:58 PM EDT up reply actions  

Washington is moving to the 3-4, and Orakpo will be playing OLB. Cushing’s an OLB in a 4-3. Slightly different.

Buffalo Rumblings. On Twitter.
"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take. --Wayne Grezky" --Michael Scott

by Brian Galliford on Mar 18, 2010 6:09 PM EDT up reply actions  

I'd rather that they go with a LT,

But I’m never going go complain about them looking into something, or their desire to target elite front 7 talent, especially to rush the passer.

...so I guess now I root for chan gailey...

by JPH on Mar 18, 2010 12:24 PM EDT via mobile reply actions  

First post from the 50th State...

Aloha Buffalo faithful,
I would like to see us solidify our DL with a 3rd down and 2 run stuffing NT and a OLB that is a tackling machine and athletic enough to cover and pass rush. Every game we seem to break on third downs when we should be getting off the field. We have made so many backs look good against us. Our D could use a couple more dependable tacklers amonst the front 7
Hopefully we can shore up our depth by trading away Roscoe, Donte, and maybe Kelsay.

by HAWAIIANBUFFALO on Mar 18, 2010 3:27 PM EDT reply actions  

Welcome to the blog. How does one become a Bills fan living in Hawaii?

Buffalo Rumblings Premiere League 2009 Champion
Song recommendation of the week: Ween - Bananas & Blow

"...BUT anyting is possible come draft DAY HOW many times we all say this is the guy we ae getting and BANGGGGG EVERYbody is in a state of SHOCK CAUSE frutty Pebles snack BANG bang CEREAL Coach just went the other way COCCOA PUFF nutty NUT craker Umpa Lumpa on all of the FANS Band wagon Kraken Dibede POP" - abayarde

by TheAfghanTwilight on Mar 18, 2010 3:36 PM EDT up reply actions  

is a gallon of milk really $7 in Hawaii? was thinking about taking a job there, but it sounds insane expensive to live there.

most of my posts get deleted :(

by dzil on Mar 18, 2010 4:22 PM EDT up reply actions  

I am going to a friends wedding in Oct, guess I will have to prepare myself…

I was born in Buffalo, and NO, it's not a suburb of New York City

by Ghetts on Mar 18, 2010 5:09 PM EDT up reply actions  

Last time I was in maui

A pack of ciggarettes was 12 dollars. I’ve never been to the big island but I imagine prices are comparable.

by mob16151 on Mar 18, 2010 5:13 PM EDT up reply actions  

Everything is more expensive there

It’s just a small group of islands where everything has to be shipped in. They have to price things that way to make up for all the shipping costs….

~K
"As the governor of Louisiana once said, the only way Chris Kelsay can lose his job is if he got caught in bed with a dead girl or a live boy."

by Kurupt on Mar 18, 2010 6:38 PM EDT up reply actions  

yeah. I pretty much had the Island part figured out. But I’ve been to many islands around the world that weren’t so extremely expensive. BTW, they’re closer to our biggest import country(China) than the rest of the U.S. is.

by dzil on Mar 19, 2010 1:07 AM EDT up reply actions  

OLB has to be close to NT as far as needs go

This was alluded to above, just to summarize. Consider the position as it stands.

Maybin
- Thus far has shown little in the way of productin (one FF and a handful of tackles last year); hopefully will have learned to carry that extra weight gained last offseason.

Schobel- May be a good fit in the 3-4; may be retired in a month.

Kelsay- Smart, heady player, but not an athlete.

Ellis- Seemingly neither smart nor heady, but also not an athlete.

Personally I think that LT is biggest need that we can realistically fill in the first round, but I would not be upset with either a NT or an OLB there as well. If I had my ‘druthers though, I think I might opt for Jerry Hughes if he’s still there in the 2nd.

by PozDispenser on Mar 18, 2010 6:23 PM EDT reply actions  

just curious. what’s the difference between smart and heady? apparently I’m neither. I’m with you on Hughes, would kill to get him in round 2, but not likely to be there.

by dzil on Mar 19, 2010 1:11 AM EDT up reply actions  

Difference

Heady= aware smart= not dumb. that’ll be my quess.

by buffalobacker on Mar 19, 2010 10:50 PM EDT up reply actions  

ah, so we’re just being redundant. Thanks for the confirmation. It was a rhetorical question, BTW.

by dzil on Mar 20, 2010 12:59 AM EDT up reply actions  

Rhetorical

All good, just call my response a rhetorical answer!!! BTW, sarcastic…

by buffalobacker on Mar 20, 2010 11:18 AM EDT up reply actions  

Lande's New Mock

A day after Russ Lande told me that he was told by members of the Bills Organization that they will look at a pass rusher early, he has changed his mock durastically:

Rd 1 – Anthony Davis – LT – Rutgers
Rd 2 – Corey Wootton – DE – Northwestern
Rd 3 – Jason Worilds – DE – Virginia Tech

He moved Sergio Kindle from BUF at 9 down to TEN at 16. He moved Charles Brown form BUF at 41 down to SEA at 60 and he moved Tony Pike from BUF at 72 all the way up to WAS at 37 (he has WAS taking Okung at 4)

5 MORE WEEKS OF THIS!………..

www.Foundation58.org - "Helping Those Who Help Us" in the fight against cancer.

by RIP058 on Mar 18, 2010 7:05 PM EDT reply actions  

Anthony Davis

Run blocking: Has the size and playing strength to be a dominant in-line run blocker when he uses good leverage and aggressiveness. Can jolt the DL on angle blocks; gets initial movement and can eliminate man from the play. Is not nearly as effective on straight-ahead run blocks because he does not fire off the ball aggressively and tends to be an upright catch blocker. Is fast getting through the line of scrimmage to the second level; delivers a good initial blow to LB, stays over feet and physically dominates man to eliminate him from the play. Has the quickness and athleticism to pull and lead-block effectively on outside runs. Shows uncommon ability to adjust to block a moving target in space. Needs to block more aggressively and use better technique more consistently. Grade: 7.5

Pass blocking: For an OT with such a thick lower body, is shockingly quick out of his stance when sliding out to corner to cut off explosive edge rushers. Has very strong hands; when he gets them on the pass rusher quickly, is able to use his strength to keep man tied up and eliminated from play. Does not punch consistently in pass protection, which allows aggressive pass rushers to get into his chest and knock him backwards. Fortunately, has the uncommon playing strength and athleticism to reset and anchor after being jolted backwards. When punching aggressively, shows the strength to jolt pass rusher upright and backwards and keep him pinned on the line of scrimmage. Can redirect and slide quickly in other direction to handle quick change-of-direction pass-rush moves, but needs to be more aggressive with inside hand to hold ground. Works well with the OG to switch against stunts and loops. Grade: 7.5

Initial quickness: Is very quick getting out of stance in pass protection and on most run blocks. Gets through the line of scrimmage so fast that blocking on the second level seems too easy for him. Can get out of stance and slide out to cut off edge rusher with surprising ease. Is quick off ball to set up on angle blocks quickly and with good technique. Is consistently late off ball only when he has to make reach blocks on shaded defensive linemen. Grade: 8.0

Playing strength: Has the natural strength to be dominant but only controls man when he blocks aggressively and uses good technique. Gets jolted backwards by aggressive pass rushers too often because he does not consistently punch in pass protection and leaves his chest wide open. Shows very good strength driving defensive lineman down the line of scrimmage on down/side blocks and can knock defender off feet when he blocks out in space. Grade: 7.5

Mobility: Has excellent mobility, which enables him to be a highly productive blocker in space despite having such a thick lower body. Has quickness through the line of scrimmage to get to the second level fast; stays over feet to maintain blocks well in space. Grade: 8.5

Bottom line: Davis’ on-field production is more like that of a second- or third-rounder, but he is a young player with great physical talent who has improved every year at Rutgers. While his lack of aggressiveness is an issue, we have no doubt about his competitiveness, which leads us to believe his areas of inconsistency will improve as he matures. His combination of elite athleticism, excellent natural strength and inconsistent production reminds us of Ravens OT Michael Oher, and we believe Davis can become an even better NFL OT than Oher given time to mature and develop.

www.Foundation58.org - "Helping Those Who Help Us" in the fight against cancer.

by RIP058 on Mar 18, 2010 7:07 PM EDT up reply actions  

Corey Wootton

Against the run: Has exceptional strength to lock-out blockers at the point of attack. Is a short-area defender with limited lateral range to chase plays down from the backside. Would ideally fit as a strongside 5-technique end for a team that runs a 3-4 defensive alignment. Can take on double-teams and clog gaps. Has the strength to make arm tackles while engaged with a blocker, but is not consistent in using hands to quickly shed blocks. Difficult to displace. Grade: 8.0

Pass rush: Shows tremendous strength and power. Is a strong bull rusher, capable of collapsing the pocket regularly. Can move inside to pass rush against a guard as a 3-technique tackle. Lacks the speed, quickness and burst to close on the QB around the edge. Displays strong club, stutter/swim and rip/pull rush moves as well. Lacks lateral quickness to be effective on stunts. Gets hands into passing lanes, batting down balls at the line of scrimmage. Grade: 7.0

Initial quickness: Is OK off the snap. Shows no discernable burst, acceleration or closing ability. Struggles to counter back after his initial surge. Grade: 7.0

Run/pass recognition: Shows outstanding instincts. Is equally smart as both a run and pass defender. As a four-year starter, has seen almost every situation. Grade: 8.5

Pursuit/tackling: Is a strong, wrap-up tackler within a short area. Is tough, physical and aggressive. Shows only average lateral range. Is a slow-footed, heavy-legged player in backside pursuit. Grade: 6.5

Bottom line: Wootton is tall and well-built, definitely looking the part of a 3-4 DE, but he does not produce up to his talent level. We do not like him as a 4-3 DE prospect and would not consider drafting him until the fourth round to play that position. But for a 3-4 scheme, he has the size, length, playing strength and athleticism to be versatile. If he can crank up his passion and intensity, he could become very productive. Still, we would not draft him in the first round, despite his physical ability. He reminds us too much of current Falcons DL Jamaal Anderson, who came into the NFL as a DE but now is being tried at DT because he struggled so much to pressure the QB from an outside alignment.

www.Foundation58.org - "Helping Those Who Help Us" in the fight against cancer.

by RIP058 on Mar 18, 2010 7:08 PM EDT up reply actions  

Jason Worilds

Strengths: Is an elite athlete with the foot quickness, speed and explosiveness to make an impact rushing the passer when aggressive. Has an explosive closing burst to the QB to deliver a violent hit. Can beat OT outside with quick hands or inside with a very good spin move. Flashes a surprising ability to jolt and drive OT backwards into the QB’s lap; can then free up and get sack. Is very competitive chasing after running plays in pursuit; shows rare athleticism hurdling over low blocks, gets back to full speed in a flash and has the top-level playing speed and explosive closing burst to consistently finish plays. Has the athleticism to change directions fast and avoid blockers in space.

Weaknesses: Is a tweener. Looks more like a linebacker than a defensive end but does not have good instincts/awareness, which becomes more of a problem the farther from the line of scrimmage a defender plays. Is often the last DL moving at the snap. Does not maintain backside contain responsibility on plays away from him. Does not rush the QB aggressively on every snap, reducing productivity. Lacks ideal size for a DE and struggles to get free from OL blocks once they get a hold of him.

Bottom line: Worilds came out early for the draft. He definitely could have helped his stock by staying in school for another season, during which he could have defined himself as a DE or OLB and improved his instincts/awareness. When he pass rushes aggressively, he looks like the elite athlete who can be very effective as an undersized pass rusher in a 4-3 scheme. But when he does not rush aggressively, he gets tied up and eliminated from the play too easily. He definitely looks like he fits best as a rush-linebacker in a 3-4 scheme, but he does not seem very instinctive and is less effective when he plays behind the line of scrimmage. Overall, we have a feeling Worilds is going to be drafted higher than we have him rated because he is going to test like a star at the Combine. But his tweener size and lack of instincts makes us very concerned he will struggle to be consistently productive doing anything other than moving forward — either rushing the QB or chasing running plays in pursuit.

Worilds announced on Jan. 7 he’s passing up his final season of eligibility to make himself available for the NFL draft. Worilds, a junior, made 49 tackles this season for the Hokies, including 11 for losses and 4 1/2 sacks. He also forced one fumble, broke up a pass and was credited with 32 hurries. He was a second-team All-Atlantic Coast Conference selection for the second consecutive year.

www.Foundation58.org - "Helping Those Who Help Us" in the fight against cancer.

by RIP058 on Mar 18, 2010 7:09 PM EDT up reply actions  

Zero percent chance that Charles Brown is there at pick 60. Literally zero percent. That said, I’d like that draft. I’m not as down on Davis as some and the possibility of getting a guy like Worilds or Norwood in the 3rd would be the main reason why I wouldn’t take a OLB in the first. I think there’s depth there that doesn’t exist at LT or QB.

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

by kaisertown on Mar 19, 2010 11:01 AM EDT up reply actions  

and there’s arguably more depth at LT than NT, but don’t we want to avoid reaching for a position when there are so many holes to fill?

by dzil on Mar 19, 2010 7:33 PM EDT up reply actions  

i know I mentioned Morgan before earlier this offseason......

not many people wanted to hear that.

The only cure for a bad today is tomorrow.

by norcaliangelsfan on Mar 18, 2010 8:17 PM EDT reply actions  

If we decide on a OL and select either one of these guys I hope they have the desire to be dominant and not like M Willians @ # 4!

And gentlemen, milks was 4.50 this week, dont smoke tabacco but could be about $6 to 7.

Kurupt, a lot of Hawaii is much like Buffalo: small towns, hard workers, humble. Maybe thats why I say GO BILLS!

by HAWAIIANBUFFALO on Mar 18, 2010 8:50 PM EDT reply actions  

Kurupt, a lot of Hawaii is much like Buffalo

This is what Brian tells himself every winter.

...so I guess now I root for chan gailey...

by JPH on Mar 18, 2010 9:57 PM EDT up reply actions  

ADDENDUM

yes, in this joke Brian is calling himself Kurupt. C’est La Vie.

...so I guess now I root for chan gailey...

by JPH on Mar 18, 2010 9:57 PM EDT up reply actions  

What a jokester

~K
"As the governor of Louisiana once said, the only way Chris Kelsay can lose his job is if he got caught in bed with a dead girl or a live boy."

by Kurupt on Mar 18, 2010 11:59 PM EDT up reply actions  

Are you guys smoking that canadian stuff again....

They will draft a LT or NT first round.

Don’t believe the hype.

Buffalo Bills or Die.

by FergusVI on Mar 18, 2010 11:04 PM EDT reply actions  

Thank God you’re here to set us straight!

Buffalo Rumblings. On Twitter.
"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take. --Wayne Grezky" --Michael Scott

by Brian Galliford on Mar 19, 2010 6:44 AM EDT up reply actions  

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