Buffalo Bills, Ryan Fitzpatrick Making Contract Progress, Per Report
by Brian Galliford on Oct 21, 2011 8:51 AM EDT
in Buffalo Bills News
Email
Print
ESPN's Chris Mortensen is reporting that while the Buffalo Bills and the representatives for quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick have stalled negotiations for the remainder of the bye week, the two sides may be closing in on a lucrative contract extension for the signal-caller.
Sources tell Mortensen that a deal could be reached next week; that the two sides would like to get a deal completed before Buffalo's next game (on October 30 against Washington); and that the deal is expected to pay Fitzpatrick between $9-12 million annually. The report uses the six-year, $63 million contract Matt Cassel signed in Kansas City as a baseline for Fitzpatrick's deal, though there's no mention of a duration on Fitzpatrick's deal in the report.
Fitzpatrick is now 8-11 over two seasons as Chan Gailey's starting quarterback. In those 19 games, he's thrown for 4,477 yards with 35 touchdowns and 21 interceptions. September's AFC Offensive Player of the Month will turn 29 on November 24. The former seventh-round pick (we forget where he went to college) is earning $3.195 million in base salary this season.
Obviously, the Bills appear ready to pay a steep price for Fitzpatrick that many of you expressed concern about when we brought up those numbers over the summer. How would everyone feel now if Fitzpatrick got, at minimum, Cassel-type money?
149 comments
|
0 recs |
Do you like this story?
Comments
uneasy is the perfect word for me. im glad we finally have a competent QB, but im worried that the fitz we saw vs. the giants/bengals is gonna be seen more often than the fitz we saw vs. the raiders and chiefs
by boomsauce on Oct 21, 2011 10:03 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
The Fitz we saw against the Giants was having a good game until he decided to throw the game away. Once again, he had us in a position to win at the end of the game. That’s big. Yes, he gave it away with a bad pick, but it still wasn’t a harrowing game from him.
"Slowly all the roles we act out become our identity. And in the end we are what we pretend to be." - Jerry Cantrell.
I'd be fine with it
it seems a little high end, but you cant deny that when given the opp he earned it..he played his way into a new contract. And even while it does feel like a lot..i’d rather pay for Fitz than HOPE for something else..a 4yr 36million deal should do the trick.
It's a tricky situation
By giving him such a contract they’re basically handing him the keys to the kingdom for the next few years based on success that’s far out-shined any Buffalo QB in a decade, but still success that’s been very limited. It kind of reminds me of the extension Dick Jauron got at 5-1 in 2008, and we all remember how things plummeted south from there.
Still, we need Fitz as our QB in 2011 and 2012 at least anyway…I believe the new rookie pay scale would allow us to comfortably pay Fitz this amount and draft a developmental QB to sit behind him in the 2012 draft.
by Let's Talk About Tex Baby on Oct 21, 2011 8:43 AM EDT reply actions 2 recs
Lock him up
He’s only going to get better and while he might never completely kick the tendency to throw a horrible INT every once in a while, he’s the perfect QB for this team. His demeanor, his love of the city, his relationship with his teammates and head coach – I don’t know how it happened but the Bills had their franchise QB fall into their laps.
"It’s like I’ve always said, don’t tell me about the labor pains, just show me the baby."
- Buddy Nix
"How can a guy with a name like Melo be such a pain in the ass?"
- George Lopez
by dnvrBillsfan on Oct 21, 2011 8:43 AM EDT reply actions 2 recs
Well,
Im actually ok with it. We dont need the big arm, stud QB for Chans offense. We need someone who is, smart and can make quick/right decisions. And that is something Fitz can do…
My only hesitation with this is the years. I believe that Fitz is a good QB, but has certainly benefitted from Chan Gailey. How long is Chan going to be here in Buffalo? If Fitz signs for 5 years, then Chan should too.
Fitz = M(C)²
"Lets Go Buff! a! lo!"
by bflo on Oct 21, 2011 8:43 AM EDT reply actions 1 recs
why not? Big arm stud QB allows Chan to be more creative and open up the playbook further than he can now…
by JustAskTheAxis on Oct 21, 2011 8:53 AM EDT up reply actions
Yes they are good to have.
But what Im saying is its not a necessity in Gaileys offense. He knows that he can trust Fitz to run his offense. They talk to eachother on the sidelines, not just your lassic, coach talks – you listen.
Fitz = M(C)²
"Lets Go Buff! a! lo!"
I would only somewhat disagree that it’s not a necessity because it’s not at all available – I understand what you’re saying, but I think it’s a testament to Gailey that he can find ways to work around our offensive deficiencies and make them effective… I’m just saying that with a blue chip QB, you could have what we already have and a lot more.
by JustAskTheAxis on Oct 21, 2011 9:04 AM EDT up reply actions
I’m just saying that with a blue chip QB, you could have what we already have and a lot more.
Yes, but we dont know any QB is going to be successful in this league. Even Andrew Luck. And hes the most “sure thing” in 15 years… but we wont have a shot at him anyways.
Fitz = M(C)²
"Lets Go Buff! a! lo!"
agreed – and while I’ve watched about 10 or 12 Luck games over the last few years and really does seem like the real deal, you never know… but you’re right, no chance at him anyway… the only way anyone has a chance is if Carolina gets #1 again and can bid it out…
here’s a question – if you were St. Louis and get the #1 pick, would you take Luck and keep Bradford or bid the pick out? Personally, and this might be crazy, but I’d take Luck and move Bradford
by JustAskTheAxis on Oct 21, 2011 10:00 AM EDT up reply actions
Thats tricky.
I think it would depend on what teams were offering. But I think id do the same, take Luck move Sam.
Fitz = M(C)²
"Lets Go Buff! a! lo!"
by bflo on Oct 21, 2011 10:21 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions
That becomes tricky because then luck may not sign with you forcing you to trade luck. It looks like you give up on your quarterback way to easily. You could also be forced to trade brad for picking luck. Big bad spiral that can happen in there.
"This is a chance to shine some light on the city, They say it’s too cold. I’m going to bring some warmth to it." Marcell Dareus
by matthew62 on Oct 21, 2011 10:42 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions
which is why
you sign him to an extension and draft your smart, big arm guy to sit behind fitz until it’s time for the young stud to take over. we CAN win with Fitz at the helm guys. just give him the chance and keep upgrading our team in key positions like the O line, and wr and the defense. A solid defense would make Fitz all the better b/c we would keep opposing offenses off the field while keeping ours on.
The problem I have with QBs who fit very specific systems, and only succeed in those systems is when there’s turnover. At that point, the trail runs downhill, and quickly.
"Go check on the ribs!"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Oct 21, 2011 9:15 AM EDT up reply actions
When theres turnovers?
Where are they are huge part of the game, we didnt have any last week and we were tied awith 4 minutes left. Obviously Fitz threw a pick and we lost, but it was just a bad throw… those happen.
Fitz = M(C)²
"Lets Go Buff! a! lo!"
I meant organizational turnover. =)
"Go check on the ribs!"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Oct 21, 2011 9:42 AM EDT up reply actions
Aaahhhh.
Gotcha, haha.
Fitz = M(C)²
"Lets Go Buff! a! lo!"
by bflo on Oct 21, 2011 10:18 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions
I was so confused at first, after reading your reply. =)
"Go check on the ribs!"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Oct 21, 2011 11:06 AM EDT up reply actions
Yeah I'd prefer a Peyton Manning too
But we live in the real world.
How many QB’s have big arms and a quick release and incredible accuracy and knows how to read defenses well?
I’m not going to wait for the next Peyton Manning because you might end up with the next JaMarcus Russell anyway.
You people need to stop dreaming that drafting a high QB = savior. Fitz is doing well in our system and the team will only get better as our OL/WR’s get more experienced. You could already see the progress being made as last season went on, and this season is just a continuation of that. I’m not saying we’re a super bowl team right now. But give it another year or two and with some more defensive play-makers, watch out!
by paythemannow on Oct 21, 2011 9:30 AM EDT up reply actions
For all the people who feel drafting a QB high equals success, there are equal amounts of people who think it equals a bust. There are two sides to a coin. It’s usually wise to take the ball, rather than defer in the draft.
"Go check on the ribs!"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Oct 21, 2011 11:08 AM EDT up reply actions
amen!
exactly what i think. cont to surround fitz with talent and get more play-makers on the defensive side of the ball. all we need is a shut down defense and our time is super bowl bound. very few teams can keep up with us in the scoring dept as it is, just imagine if our d was raven-like?
I can’t help but wonder what Chan could have done with Losman…he certainly could have helped his decision making, and given him more targets earlier in his reads, so as to limit his mistakes.
"Slowly all the roles we act out become our identity. And in the end we are what we pretend to be." - Jerry Cantrell.
Losman was a cocky son of a gun
I’m not sure if he was diligent/smart enough to ever learn to be a good QB
by paythemannow on Oct 24, 2011 8:02 AM EDT up reply actions
Oh, it’s from Mortensen. It can be safely ignored.
"I could have conquered Europe, all of it, but I had women in my life." - King Henry II of England
This morning Ryan Fitzpatrick said on 97 rock that he has no idea what’s going on but knows that “they’ve been talking”.
by J2 on Oct 21, 2011 2:42 PM EDT up reply actions
Can you repeat the question?
(you’re not the boss of me, now…)
"Teams that don't deserve to win.... Usually don’t. Today is no exception." -- Mr Huge Pecs
"Nick Barnett is everywhere. He is behind you right now." -- Munchausen
by ChuckBuffInFlo on Oct 22, 2011 10:29 AM EDT up reply actions
Years
The years don’t really matter to me, this isn’t MLB so the Bills can dump Fitz and what is left of his contract at any time. I think that the Bills will probably take a quarterback in round 2 or 3 this year (ala New England last year) and let that guy sit behind Fitz for a couple of years. I’m not saying Fitz isn’t good, but I am not sold on him taking the Bills to the promised land. He still isn’t a top 10 qb, and until we have a lights out defense that is what is needed to be a factor in the playoffs.
GET TO THE CHOPPA!!!
No QB in 2012
With money they are paying Fitz and Thiggy no way take QB that early. I thing we need to come out of 1st 4 rounds with pass rusher, CB, OG, OT, WR.
by RockyTopBill on Oct 21, 2011 9:12 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Thigpen? Really???
If Fitzpatrick goes down, I would fully expect the Bills to lose every game that Thigpen starts. He was absolutely terrible in the preseason and has never shown much in his career. The only reason why he is still with the team is because Chan knows him from previous teams. If there is a decent QB available in the draft, the Bills should take him and start grooming him for the future. Thigpen is NOT the future, and he barely qualifies for the present.
by SiriusRed on Oct 21, 2011 9:23 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Now get Stevie locked up!!
With the start Stevie has had so far he is on track for over 90 receptions, 1000 yards, and 10 TD. This will be the second season he has has big numbers, they have to pay him. The Santonio Holmes and Sydney Rice contracts will have to be used as template, so Bills will have to pony up at least 5 yr, 40 million.
What kind of money do you guys think Bell and Pears will want?
by RockyTopBill on Oct 21, 2011 9:09 AM EDT via mobile reply actions
Yeah I cant believe he hasnt been in any of these talks.
We need to re-sign Stevie.
Fitz = M(C)²
"Lets Go Buff! a! lo!"
I'm in a tough spot with how I feel...
On one hand, he absolutely deserves at least what Cassel got. I still think Cassel is a joke as a franchise QB.
On the other hand, it concerns me a bit to think that they’re comfortable enough with Fitzy to pass up any opportunity to get better at the position in the near future. I’m not talking a Carson Palmer situation. That’s going to sting the Raiders down the road.
But now I feel they’ll simply pass over any improvement in talent that the draft displays to them.
Yes, Fitzy has the moxie, the motivation, and the momentum from his teammates. But he’s still lacking in arm strength and Ws. I’ll chaulk some of those losses to the fact that injuries have set in at WR.
I just hope they don’t have beer goggles on when handing contracts out.
"Go check on the ribs!"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Oct 21, 2011 9:13 AM EDT reply actions 1 recs
With Cassel and Carson, draft picks were sacrificed. We already have Fitz, so thats a plus.
As far as drafting, I think our defense needs to be top priorty. Having Fitz allows us to concentrate on other pressing needs, while being stable at the position. And perhaps drafting a rawer prospect to sit under him.
Ftz is not in the ‘elite’ category, but i feel like he is at the top of the next best category. On par with Matt Ryan. Eli, and perhaps Phillip Rivers. He makes up for his lack of a cannon with quick decisions and the ability to put it up where his wr can make a play (save for a couple off throws last week). His completition percentage is high, and he has shown he can take a medicore team and put them in the mix with any team in the league.
Shun the non Billievers!
by Superduff on Oct 21, 2011 9:25 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I hear you, but remember that completion percentage looks a lot like Pennington’s. There are tons of underneath passes.
"Go check on the ribs!"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Oct 21, 2011 10:13 AM EDT up reply actions
As far as passing over improvement in talent
I think we are 2-3 drafts away from being consistently good enough to go deep in the playoffs every year. That is taking all positions BESIDES QB. I think Fitz is good enough to get us through that period, and then the team is good enough to draft a 1st rd developmental QB to learn and bring along slowly. He would then be transitioning into a good team and the process would go much smoother. This appears to me to be what the Bills are thinking as well.
Remember that the lack of a steady defense plays into those losses as well.
"If winning isn't everything, why do they keep score?"
~Vince Lombardi~
by Hambone on Oct 23, 2011 6:59 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Love it!
He is a vetran leader at the most important spot. He knows the system, and has an excellent repore with Chan (something that shouldnt be ignored). He should only improve in the future, especially with a real offseason next year.
He is good for the area, and he is good for this team. If we can fix the defense, this offense has enough potential to be dangerous in the playoffs.
Shun the non Billievers!
Lock him up
He is the undisputed leader of this team. Athletically, he may be average, but the intangibles are through the roof.
Fitzpatrick should have just walked around the stadium yelling "Are you not entertained!!!" ~ Dana H
his intangibles were through the roof last year and we went 4-12 – average athletically is not good enough in the NFL usually, and Fitz is no exception to that. He can be effective at times, but is far too inconsistent to reward with a big contract… Don’t you think the Chiefs might be rethinking their Matt Cassel contract a little bit right now?
by JustAskTheAxis on Oct 21, 2011 9:23 AM EDT up reply actions
We went 4-12, he did not. He didnt start the season, and we were playing with a misfit team in the first year of a new system. Its hard to place that on the shoulders of a man who wasnt even the opening day starter.
Shun the non Billievers!
oops – misread, thought you were talking about Cassel
by JustAskTheAxis on Oct 21, 2011 10:02 AM EDT up reply actions
He also didn't have an O-Line that was cohesive.....
Sign him. Period.
I love me some Amish Rifle.....
Fantastic!
For all your doubters out there that prefer to draft the next franchise QB with a top-10 pick. Tell me this, would you rather spend your $10mm/year on, let’s say, Mark Sanchez? Vince Young? Or would you rather spent it on a trade bait like Cassel? Kolb?
How about “franchise” QB’s like Joe Flacco, Matt Ryan or Josh Freeman?
And do you seriously think Cam Newton will be a better QB than Fitz? Sure Fitz has his flaws, but I’ll take his “weak arm” over a strong-armed crappy passer (JaMarcus?) any day!
And do you seriously think Cam Newton will be a better QB than Fitz?
Holy crap, yes. That’s not even debatable.
Editor-in-Chief, BUFFALO RUMBLINGS®
@BrianGalliford
by Brian Galliford on Oct 21, 2011 9:27 AM EDT up reply actions
Cam Newton >>>>>> Josh Freeman >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Fitz.
Like Brian said not even debatable.
by Michael_Necci on Oct 21, 2011 9:29 AM EDT up reply actions
I'm currently debating both of those things.
..Guess it is debatable.
"WE PROTECT AND LIVE FOR THE HONOR OF RIDING IN THE WAGON BLASTER" -abayarde
by BuffaloBlueBlood on Oct 21, 2011 9:57 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions 1 recs
disagree on freeman being that far out in front of fitz
but cam will be better if he stays out of trouble
Buffalo, that's where it's at baby. - Adam 'Pacman' Jones
To us winning is a tradition. We are victors and need not explain. You may hate us, but your girlfriends love us. - BC
One more than Shaq. - Kobe answering how it felt to win Championship number 5.
by silverstreak3k on Oct 21, 2011 4:53 PM EDT up reply actions
And Cam Newton will be around a lot longer than Fitzpatrick. I fully believe that the Bills would have taken Newton if he had still been available at #3. Sure, he may be inconsistent right now, but he’s still a rookie. Jim Kelly struggled to win games in his first season with the Bills, and he had already been playing in the USFL for two years.
Brian you know a lot more about football than I do
I respect your opinions but so far I’m not convinced on this one. I’ll believe it once Newton starts through more TD’s than INT’s. So far he’s looked a lot like a Vince Young minus the wins.
by paythemannow on Oct 21, 2011 9:33 AM EDT up reply actions
Well, I’m not going to be able to convince you, then, because I can’t magic him three more touchdowns. Trust me: Newton’s the real deal. You realize he has as many rushing TDs as Fred Jackson, right? :)
Editor-in-Chief, BUFFALO RUMBLINGS®
@BrianGalliford
by Brian Galliford on Oct 21, 2011 9:37 AM EDT up reply actions
But Ryan can Fitzmagic you three more touchdowns
=)
I'd like to thank Tecmo Super Bowl for making me Hawaii's #1 Buffalo Bills fan!
by Baron Hashimoto on Oct 21, 2011 4:16 PM EDT up reply actions
And Buddy Nix certainly felt this way too.
"Go check on the ribs!"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Oct 21, 2011 10:14 AM EDT up reply actions
If you think Cam Newton resembles Jamarcus Russell in any way, shape or form – well, I guess it shows how much u know about football.
I’ve spoken all off season about what a talent Cam is. Seeing him play at the level he has thus far, while in the pocket I might add, has been simply astounding. Far exceeding my own expectations. Perhaps what I’m most happy about, is that our FO had the balls to not only pull the trigger on the guy had he been there at #3, but also said so to the media afterward.
These guys know what they’re doing.
No I wasn't comparing Newton to JaMarcus
I’m just saying that I’d take a mediocre-armed but good passer over a strong-armed but mediocre passer any day.
As for Newton – he can run like Young & Vick, but Vick didn’t really prosper until he started becoming a better pocket passer. I admit I’ve only watched one Panthers game so far, but I didn’t see anything in Newton’s passing game that stood out to me.
Anyway, I don’t think we’re going to settle this debate right now. We’ll have to wait for a few years and see how things play out. I discovered this blog at the start of this season and have been reading it religiously ever since. I’ll be around to gloat when Newton gets cut in the 2014 pre-season. :)
by paythemannow on Oct 21, 2011 9:46 AM EDT up reply actions
I’d take a mediocre-armed but good passer over a strong-armed but mediocre passer any day.
you had those guys and their names were Trent Edwards and Kelly Holcomb
by JustAskTheAxis on Oct 21, 2011 10:06 AM EDT up reply actions
But are you certain Fitzpatrick is a good passer? He’s highly inaccurate.
"Go check on the ribs!"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Oct 21, 2011 10:16 AM EDT up reply actions
When did Vick & Young ever put up the kind of numbers Cam Newton is already putting up, beginning with his very first game ever?
Give a monkey a typewriter and infinite time, and he’ll eventually release Maybin. -- stetzwebs
No one circles the waiver wire like the Buffalo Bills!
by thefourwinds on Oct 21, 2011 11:15 AM EDT up reply actions
Yeah, but passing numbers are up across the NFL (and not every team is Buffalo, either, lol). As Carolina gets a more balanced offense, they start to win more games.
by PineWoodsBillsFan on Oct 21, 2011 4:20 PM EDT up reply actions
well, I guess it shows how much u know about football.
Folks, for the love of all that is holy, statements like this do nothing but piss people off. Comment with respect, please.
Editor-in-Chief, BUFFALO RUMBLINGS®
@BrianGalliford
by Brian Galliford on Oct 21, 2011 9:55 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
heck yeah!
Cam is the freaking MAN!! I hate Luck didn’t come out this yr. I don’t think elway would’ve been too keen on Cam, so he probably would’ve been there for us! Cam fit what Gailey wants in a franchise QB. He’s big, fast, athletic/mobile, has a rocket arm, great work ethic, and has that IT factor about him. Dude is a flat out winner! he just needs more surrounding talent. Put him in B-lo behind fitz this yr being groomed by gailey and OH MY GOD!!! It’s a WRAP!!! That type of QB doesn’t come around too often. Ok, now I’m sad :-(
And do you seriously think Cam Newton will be a better QB than Fitz
ive read alot of sharp opinions on this site, but this may be the first one that literally shocked me.
i cannot believe i just read this
Jeeze, cut him some slack. It is an unknown. One would think Cam has all the tools to do whatever he wants, but so far that hasnt translated into wins. Lets compare them in a couple years and see how far apart they reall stand.
Shun the non Billievers!
by Superduff on Oct 21, 2011 10:04 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I know, right.
What the hell is so shocking? All these people above here with their matter-of-fact opinions talking down on us miscreants who happen to have varying opinions. Saying things are not even debatable. Well, yes they are.
"WE PROTECT AND LIVE FOR THE HONOR OF RIDING IN THE WAGON BLASTER" -abayarde
by BuffaloBlueBlood on Oct 21, 2011 10:14 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions
In fairness everything is detable. You can debate chickens do not lay eggs and that aids does not exist. The latter of which in highschool our debate team won an argument on.
"This is a chance to shine some light on the city, They say it’s too cold. I’m going to bring some warmth to it." Marcell Dareus
by matthew62 on Oct 21, 2011 10:53 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions
It really bothers me when people on here take an elitist tone. Make concrete statements about their opinions, but present them as fact, hen they have no way of knowing if what the said will become true. Then they talk down to you and demean you if you have an opposing opinion.
“Cam Newton will most certainly be a better QB than Fitzpatrick”
Or
" I will personally guarantee that the Bills will a) not win 10-12 games next season, and b) will not make the playoffs next season."
"WE PROTECT AND LIVE FOR THE HONOR OF RIDING IN THE WAGON BLASTER" -abayarde
by BuffaloBlueBlood on Oct 21, 2011 11:18 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions
I did not say anything either way I was just saying everything is debatable. I guess I was not clear enough in that.
"This is a chance to shine some light on the city, They say it’s too cold. I’m going to bring some warmth to it." Marcell Dareus
by matthew62 on Oct 21, 2011 11:22 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions
No, I know. That wasn’t really towards you. I was just expanding my point.
"WE PROTECT AND LIVE FOR THE HONOR OF RIDING IN THE WAGON BLASTER" -abayarde
by BuffaloBlueBlood on Oct 21, 2011 11:26 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Okay gotcha no problem
"This is a chance to shine some light on the city, They say it’s too cold. I’m going to bring some warmth to it." Marcell Dareus
by matthew62 on Oct 21, 2011 11:29 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Anyone would take him over Russell, but you lost me at Cam Newton – Cam will be way better and might be already
by JustAskTheAxis on Oct 21, 2011 10:04 AM EDT up reply actions
Not as happy as others about this
I acknowledge the leadership and community aspect of Fitz, but in truth his talent is at its peak (which is average) as well as him not exactly being young. Now what are we gona do, sign steve johnson AND fred jackson to similar or better deals? We all know the Bills don’t have that kind of money. I am having a hard time seeing us now sign Stevie and Jackson. Does anyone really think he’s played that well? Yes the patriots, raiders, and chiefs games he’s played great. When he’s played better defenses (giants bengals) he has struggled. Another receiver might make him a great QB but this does not sit well with me. And who cares if Matt Cassel gets paid 63 mil he makes 62 mil more than he deserves
he actually played really well the Giants game. I think he completed 70% of his passes. Yes those two passes were under thrown but he usually makes that throw. We will sign Stevie….I think they part ways with Jackson soon. IMO, that is the business side behind football. Jackson is 30, and with Spiller in the behind the curtains, they will let him walk or trade him while his stock is high. Don’t get me wrong, I love Freddie, and he deserves more money, but he won’t get it
completion percentage doesnt equate to success.
Ask Roni Tomo. He had nearly 70% completion percentage before being injured last year… But that doesn’t mean that he didn’t lose games, at clutch times, with bad throws or mental errors. We have seen more of this from the ‘Boys and romo this year. completing passes doesn’t magically erase turnovers- which are far more detrimental to a team than incompletions.
ABAYARDE IS NOSTRADAMUS JUST WATCH WE WILL NOT YIEALD TO NOBODY YOUR SOUL WE WILL TAKE
by ThaRealTruth on Oct 21, 2011 2:03 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Bad comparison
Kansas City badly overpaid Cassell. Fitzpatrick is definitely worth more, but it’s tough to compare when you give a subpar quarterback franchise money based on what he could do with one of the best overall teams for the one season Tom Brady was injured.
I feel like there’s a majority of people that complain that the Bills are cheap.
Then when they’re ready to pay someone market value, like Fitz at $10 million / year, there’s a lot of hand-wringing over how much it is. That’s what good QBs cost these days. How many years has it been since the Bills paid an above average salary to a QB? Since the Rob Johnson trade? I feel like people have forgotten what a good QB gets paid. The top ones get nearly $20 million.
And really, if it doesn’t work out it’s just someone else’s money, and he can’t take it with him to the grave.
It’s not like the cap is a concern with this team either.
The only question to ask is "do you want to commit to Fitzpatrick to be the QB of this team?" I don’t see how you would answer ‘no’ to that question.
by Pistol on Oct 21, 2011 9:36 AM EDT reply actions 1 recs
I see how someone could say "no" to that question.
The only question to ask is “do you want to commit to Fitzpatrick to be the QB of this team?” I don’t see how you would answer ‘no’ to that question.
I have very serious doubts that Fitz can be mistake free for a 4-game strecth against good teams. And that is what would be needed more than likely to win a SB.
I agree Fitz is an above average QB and that we don’t really have any other options at this point, but his inconsistency gives me pause about him being able to take us to the ultimate goal.
"I got no problem with 7-9 coming off of 4-12 as long as I don't buy a couch there, you got to keep moving" - Mike Schoop
Yes
We have the cap room…we have spent money in worse places (see Maybin, Dockery, Mike WIlliams, etc) so yes I am ok with 10 million.
Do I think Fitz is a product of the system…yes. But he has produced and is the primarly reason for our resurgence. With the rookie wage scale and the fact we shouldn’t be picking in the top 10 I think we need to pony up.
He's earned it . . .
His numbers speak for themselves, his teammates believe in him, he sincerely enjoys playing for our franchise, and bottom line, he’s a likeable winner.
I’m curious what’s to be done about our back up situation – I’m not sure why we need both Tyler and Brad Smith . . . given our hefty investment and his multi-threat abilities, seems to me it makes more sense to have Brad as our designated back up.
by RockyMTBillsFan on Oct 21, 2011 9:46 AM EDT reply actions
I think if you DONT like it, you gotta ask if you are happy letting him go or paying him franchise money for a year. Cause this is the market for QBs. Kolb had done squat and got a 6 year deal for north of $60m. I don’t see how we are a better team by breaking up one of the better offenses in football through 6 weeks.
Above average starting QBs are pretty tough to come by. I don’t think it ties your hands if you give him a 4-5 year contract. You can always cut ties later if things go south. You can also continue to draft for value. If you have the opportunity to draft a QB you love, do it. Just makes sense to keep this group together right now.
I have low expectations. But high hopes.
Absolutely Fine
We have plenty of cap space, although Fitz wouldn’t draw much attention on the open market, he is well worth the money.
Gotta get Freddy and Stevie signed next. Our offense will be fun for many years if we can keep these 3 guys together.
"although Fitz wouldn’t draw much attention on the open market..."
I beg to differ Sir.
Here’s a scenario I’d like you to consider. Let’s just say we come to some kind of impasse in negotiations with Fitz’s agent and could not get a deal done.
Then we draft a QB with our first round pick in the spring.
And we don’t franchise Fitz (it would be HUGE money to do that).
If we were stupid enough to allow Fitz to walk, there would be a bunch of teams running to him to sign with them. Skins, Fish, Browns, Jags would be at the top of the list.
"There is not a loser in this room." Marv Levy.
by SERGEANT MAJOR THOR on Oct 21, 2011 8:49 PM EDT up reply actions
In response to this...
Gotta get Freddy and Stevie signed next. Our offense will be fun for many years if we can keep these 3 guys together.
I’m sure what I’m about to say is a bit far-fetched, BUT…can this “triple-threat” if you would be the 2011 and on version of Kelly, Thomas and Reed??? Just a thought…
Its the length that matters the most to me really. It is the price if a starting qb buffalo.not going to get him.for less really. 5 year deal not a ten year deal.
"This is a chance to shine some light on the city, They say it’s too cold. I’m going to bring some warmth to it." Marcell Dareus
by matthew62 on Oct 21, 2011 10:57 AM EDT via mobile reply actions
Length of deal
Doesn’t really matter a whole ton. This is the NFL, you can drop players
The longer the deal the more likly you get stuck paying more guarenteed money after you drop him. Plus if I see a 10 year deal it tells me fitz is their answer. I am just not convinced he is the.long term answer.
"This is a chance to shine some light on the city, They say it’s too cold. I’m going to bring some warmth to it." Marcell Dareus
by matthew62 on Oct 21, 2011 11:07 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions
It's a good deal for both sides
10mil a year is the going rate for decent starters. It’s not like the Bills are paying him crazy Manning/Brady money. Solid qb’s are hard to find. Like most people I’m pretty sure the Bills would have taken Newton if they could, which tells me Buddy and Chan aren’t delusional about Fitz. He is a solid QB who can help you win games, not just ‘not lose’. Is he going to the HOF, not too likely, but how many QB’s out there are better right now? Maybe 7-8? He is still in his prime (age wise) and should have several very productive years ahead of him. Pay him what he is worth and continue to look at future options as the next couple of years pass. One of the benefits of how the NFL works (especially the way the Bills work the cap) is that contracts aren’t guaranteed like in Basketball and Baseball. If Fitz flops in two years they cut him and go a different direction but they aren’t out the last 20-30 million which can be spent/wasted on someone else.
Kind of funny thinking back to last year and how many people were screaming about Jake Locker being the savior – just draft him and we are set for a dozen years with a great qb. While Jake may eventually turn into a decent NFL QB, there are very few guarantees with college quarterbacks, even Andrew Luck.
Fitz on open market
I also disagree that Fitz wouldn’t be valuable on the open market. There are lots of teams who are paying as much or more for either unproven or over-the-hill quarterbacks. Fitz would get the same money or more from plenty of teams. Think the Jets wouldn’t LOVE to replace Sanchez with Fitz. Make that switch the last couple of years and the Jets may very well have made the Super Bowl.
The jury is still out on Locker
But i think we valued Cam over all of them. Actually, I’m pretty sure they knew Carolina was going to grab Cam and since Cam was our 1st choice but got picked before us, we had to go defense and get the #1 D lineman available that fit a position of need for us. Our 2nd choice at QB was prob Gabbert and would have been the pick if it went like this:
1. C. Newton – Car
2. M. Dareus – Den
3. B. Gabbert – Buf
That was prob the top 3 on our draft board anyway and didn’t expect den to pass on Dareus to take miller.
That's the going rate
If the Bills want him for the near future, they’ll have to pay it. It’s tough to argue that. I don’t mind seeing Fitz get paid roughly $10M a year, especially if he can continue his solid, sometimes great play.
What I worry about is the length of the contract and the commitment to Fitz for the long term. I’m really hoping it’s no longer than 4 years and I hope the Bills are still very open to picking a QB high in the draft. It might not look good, but if the Bills give Fitz a 3 or 4 year extension and somehow a guy like Landry Jones or even Robert Griffin or Matt Barkley were available to them, I’d hope they really, really, really consider making that pick.
~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 Oct 21, 2011 11:59 AM EDT reply actions 3 recs
Bingo.
I don’t think we can win a SB with Fitz, but at the same time we can’t let him walk right now.
"I got no problem with 7-9 coming off of 4-12 as long as I don't buy a couch there, you got to keep moving" - Mike Schoop
I respectfully disagree with this statement...
I don’t think we can win a SB with Fitz, but at the same time we can’t let him walk right now.
Why do most of us believe that? Fitz was not our problem last yr when he came in, and he sure isn’t our problem this yr. The problem is our DEFENSE! or lack thereof. Yeah, fitz threw 2 crucial INT’s against the giants, but to say that cost us the game is not totally true. We wouldn’t be in that position had the defense been able to first, SACK Manning, and 2nd actually get the giants off the field by covering somebody. Our defense is clearly the weakest link on this team. Trent Dilfer for crying out loud won a super bowl not because of his talent but because he had a defense that shut teams DOWN! He didn’t have to do much offensively b/c teams simply were not putting up many points against them. Fitz is WAAAAYYYY BETTER than Dilfer to me, and our offense is pretty amazing. We need to stop this “fitz can’t win us a superbowl talk”. YES HE CAN! It’s our DEFENSE that will ultimately keep us from even seeing one.
My argument is about his consistency, not his ability to win one game.
He hasn’t had a complete meltdown game yet this year, so hopefully those become few and far between.
The bottom line is winning the SB is more than just winning that one game. We have to likely win 4 games in a row vs very good teams. I haven’t seen that consistency from him yet.
I agree that our defense is our biggest issue right now, but I’m looking at 2-3 years from now when we can hopefully think about championship runs.
"I got no problem with 7-9 coming off of 4-12 as long as I don't buy a couch there, you got to keep moving" - Mike Schoop
by lonestar_ak on Oct 22, 2011 11:54 PM EDT up reply actions
I agree that it’s the going rate, and so they’re going to have to pay him. And I also worry about the length of the contract. But worst case scenario (I hope) is that OBD sees a QB in the draft they’d like to develop in the first or second round, grabs him, and in a couple of years puts Fitz on the market. If he continues this level of play there will undoubtedly be a market for him.
"Slowly all the roles we act out become our identity. And in the end we are what we pretend to be." - Jerry Cantrell.
You said it K.
My thoughts exactly.
Resign Fitz.
Draft the QB of the future in 2012 or 2013. No 3rd rounders. Preferably a 1st.
Rec’d.
"There is not a loser in this room." Marv Levy.
by SERGEANT MAJOR THOR on Oct 21, 2011 8:53 PM EDT up reply actions
Agree with you both
And just to add a thought, I have the feeling Fitz will be awesome as a “teacher” of his replacement in a few years. It just seems to be the attitude on this team now (think Andra Davis).
"Teams that don't deserve to win.... Usually don’t. Today is no exception." -- Mr Huge Pecs
"Nick Barnett is everywhere. He is behind you right now." -- Munchausen
by ChuckBuffInFlo on Oct 22, 2011 11:04 AM EDT up reply actions
It ain't MY money.
And I’m tired of a QB carousel. And Fitz has been the best QB we have had since Bledsoe.
O.K.
I’m O.K. giving Fitz the money as long as they pursue some sort of future prospect in the upcoming drafts. He isn’t the future of this team and I really don’t see him winning a championship. However, he does win games and is a great guy in the locker room. My question is: Isn’t Freddy getting locked up for a few more years important to this team? I like Spiller and all but is he really their answer if Freddy leaves?
You knew Brian was kidding, right?
"Teams that don't deserve to win.... Usually don’t. Today is no exception." -- Mr Huge Pecs
"Nick Barnett is everywhere. He is behind you right now." -- Munchausen
by ChuckBuffInFlo on Oct 22, 2011 11:04 AM EDT up reply actions
4 years/40 millions, 15 guaranteed
It seems like a bit much but I would be OK with it. Front load it to use some of this years cap space and free up some more going forward to make some bigger signings once we have a cap floor.
Maybe add some escalators for playoff wins or reaching 32 TD’s, 3500 yards, etc.
The guy loves Buffalo and is a good fit for what we are trying to accomplish, and people need to stop ignoring his numbers this year. He’s easily a top 10 QB in the league right now.
Circle the Wagons T-Shirts
Blue collar t-shirts, for blue collar fans.
by CircleTheWagonsTees on Oct 21, 2011 1:25 PM EDT reply actions
I would disagree that he is “easily a top 10 QB”
Rodgers, Rivers, Brady, Brees, Vick, Schaub, Roethisberger, Stafford, Romo, Manning, Newton, Hasselbeck… and statistically, Cutler, Cassel, and even Alex Smith aren’t that far off… long season before you call someone a top 10 anything
by JustAskTheAxis on Oct 21, 2011 3:23 PM EDT up reply actions
He said “right now”, and I think, statistically, he’s above most of those players. Big Ben’s having a down year, Hasselbeck’s playing well but not top ten well, Romo, Eli, Cutler, Cassel, Smith…he’s playing better than all of them. Give the guy a little credit.
"Slowly all the roles we act out become our identity. And in the end we are what we pretend to be." - Jerry Cantrell.
He deserves Cassel level money.
It’s less about what we could or should give him to me, and more about what he’s earned. His play thus far, and the likelihood of it continuing, deserves that amount.
Go Buffalo Bills, Utah Jazz, and Arkansas Razorbacks
OUR KING DOME IS HOLLY GROUND YOU CAN ENTER BUT YOU WILL LEAVE WITH OUT A SOUL - Abayarde, Buffalo Rumblings
surprised so many are ok with this
it kind of reeks of the extension jauron got when he came out on fire. not that im really comparing it, just seems……similar? i dont know how to describe it but im sure ill get jumped for bringing them both up.
10 mil a year is a lot. i think fitz deserves a raise and an extension, but hes far too unpredictable to get 10 mil a year. i was thinking in the 6-7 mil a year range with about 12-14 guaranteed.
i just dont think fitz is the long term answer, he has accuracy issues and throws some pretty bad balls at least 2-4 times a game, and that to me doesnt equate to such a large raise.
Buffalo, that's where it's at baby. - Adam 'Pacman' Jones
To us winning is a tradition. We are victors and need not explain. You may hate us, but your girlfriends love us. - BC
One more than Shaq. - Kobe answering how it felt to win Championship number 5.
You Do Realize...
…the top of the NFL QB scale (Peyton Manning, Tom Brady) is $19 million per year. the NFL average is $12 million per year. Yet, you guys want OBD offer Fitz $6 million per year for 4 years.
Next time you watch Brady, Rodgers, Romo or any other QB making more than $10 million per year, please count how many bad balls they throw in the game.
The absolute best QBs in the league complete about 67% of their passes.
And I believe that Brady threw 4 picks against us.
He looked ……… like Fitz did against the Giants. Only worse.
"There is not a loser in this room." Marv Levy.
by SERGEANT MAJOR THOR on Oct 21, 2011 8:56 PM EDT up reply actions
I would agree with your analysis but there is one thing to consider.
The NFL takes into account one thing that most Americans do get to appreciate. That is the cost of living increase. The NFL being a large profitable entity, 10 million is par for the course. IMO your opinion is more appropriate, but then we don’t want it to be an issue again anytime soon.
YOU ARE OUT of you kuku fufu mine craker laker Flaber baber FUNKI chunki brain. WE want to winn every year -- abayarde
NOOO. that is too much money for a qb that is not even close to an elite qb. in my opinion, 12 million a year is elite qb money. fitzpatrick is not that.
on the other hand, i would like a contract extension to be given to freddy jackson. something like a 4 year deal about 40 million.
"the man who created a legend; the legend who resurrected a franchise."
Please Catch Up!
$19 million per year is elite QB money. $12 million per year is the league average.
Fitz is above average this year. Other teams (the Jets, Miami, Denver, the Bears) would gladly give him $12 million per year.
the jets, broncos nor the bears are in need of a qb
"the man who created a legend; the legend who resurrected a franchise."
I'd argue the Jets and Broncos might.
"WE PROTECT AND LIVE FOR THE HONOR OF RIDING IN THE WAGON BLASTER" -abayarde
by BuffaloBlueBlood on Oct 21, 2011 6:03 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
no way that sanchez is not in their future. and the broncos have a star in the making in tebow.
"the man who created a legend; the legend who resurrected a franchise."
We’ll see I guess. I think Sanchez stinks, and I just don’t think Tebow’s got it. Especially since his throwing motion still takes 3 hours and crosses state lines.
"WE PROTECT AND LIVE FOR THE HONOR OF RIDING IN THE WAGON BLASTER" -abayarde
by BuffaloBlueBlood on Oct 21, 2011 9:21 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
and don’t get me wrong, i like a lot of what fitz has done this year, save for the high amount of interceptions. he is a big reason why we are 4-2. i thought he should have gotten 1 or 2 gameballs on this blog for his play. but it has now become evident to me that fred jackson is this team’s best player, qb or not. without him i doubt fitz would have as good numbers. the reality is he lacks the physical skills and intangibles to be a great qb. i could be wrong (and i hope i am), but i think if he were going to be a great qb, we would have seen it happen already.
we still need to invest in a young, stud prospect at qb.
"the man who created a legend; the legend who resurrected a franchise."
dude, fitz is simply not that talented. he doesn’t have the physical skills to be an elite qb. i think he’s proven that.
"the man who created a legend; the legend who resurrected a franchise."
Neither did Bart Starr or Phil Simms
I’ve watched the NFL for 58 years and not every successful QB had Marino’s or Manning’s arm strength.
don’t forget that much of the success fitzpatrick is having can be credited to chan gailey. would his numbers or play be as good on another team? i dont think so.
"the man who created a legend; the legend who resurrected a franchise."
First, who cares how well he would do on another team? He’s on this team, and that’s all that matters.
Second, he’s the starting QB and a captain of one of the best offenses in the NFL. He has earned a pay day. the average starting NFL QB makes roughly $11M. Paying him below average money for above average production is a steal, honestly. So $10M is not that outrageous of a price.
"Slowly all the roles we act out become our identity. And in the end we are what we pretend to be." - Jerry Cantrell.
and u expect them to resign jackson and johsnon after shelling out 10 to 12 million for an average or slightly above average qb? history tells us that they won’t resign all 3.
"the man who created a legend; the legend who resurrected a franchise."
Why not?
They have the money.
Stevie will get a big deal. And Freddie will get a “fair” extension. He’s not stupid.
He knows nobody in the NFL is going to give a blockbuster deal to a very replaceable position and a 30 year old.
Fair deal for Freddie = 3 year, 21 mil extension with 10 guaranteed. He gets rewarded for his awesome service, but the Bills are not on the hook for a ridiculous contract and can cut him in year 2 or 3 if he is old/hurt/not performing.
"There is not a loser in this room." Marv Levy.
by SERGEANT MAJOR THOR on Oct 21, 2011 9:02 PM EDT up reply actions
This regime has no history yet, it’s 1.5 years old. And yes, I expect them to re-sign all of them, Stevie to a huge long term contract, Freddie to a short-term one, and Fitz to the one we talked about.
"Slowly all the roles we act out become our identity. And in the end we are what we pretend to be." - Jerry Cantrell.
Every Successful QB benefits from a "System"
Tom Brady is a product of Belichek’s system in New England. The Broncos are tailoring there offense to Tim Tebow. The Colts’ “system” is so tailored to Peyton Manning, no one else can operate it.
That Fitz is successful in Chan’s system is another reason to pay him the money.
How is this relevant?
would his numbers or play be as good on another team? i dont think so.
We could really say the same for Brady. Remove BB from the equation and do you really think he is a future HOF QB? There’s only 1 Manning. You have to attribute some QB success to their coaches being able maximize their potential. Gailey is great at that. Fitz’ talent level may not be that of others but, his talent still exists. In his case, his above avg QB intellect compensates for what he lacks talent-wise. Besides, how many QB’s sling the ball 60+ yds down the field every game anyway? Just move the chains baby! Efficiency is the key.
Comments For This Post Are Closed
Secondary Sidebar
User Tools
Related FanPosts on Buffalo Rumblings
FanPosts
Community blog posts and discussion.
Recommended FanPosts
Recent FanPosts
SBNation.com Recent Stories
In Association With
Shutdown Corner - NFL - Yahoo! Sports
- Former high-school star Brian Banks does serious time on trumped-up charge, now hopes for an NFL shot
- Former ‘idiot kicker’ Mike Vanderjagt in trouble after accosting junior-high heckler
- Adrian Peterson blows teammates away in footraces; appears to be on the mend
- UPDATE: Charlie Sheen didn’t buy Lawrence Taylor’s Super Bowl ring
- Alex Smith gets blown up by Jon Beason over Cam Newton comments
