The Buffalo Bills created an open roster spot yesterday when they placed veteran pass rusher Shawne Merriman on Injured Reserve. According to the Newark Star-Ledger, they filled that spot by re-signing Antonio Coleman, a second-year pass rusher released by the Bills in September.

Coleman spent the first portion of the 2011 season on the New York Giants' practice squad. If this news becomes official, Buffalo must keep him on the active roster for three weeks - though that obviously shouldn't be a problem.

Coleman had a strong pre-season with eight tackles and a sack, but got caught up in the numbers game at linebacker. He should be able to step in and immediately contribute. He originally signed with the Bills a year ago as an undrafted free agent out of Auburn, accumulating five tackles in limited playing time during eight games.

Coleman joins a pass-rushing group that includes veteran Chris Kelsay and second-year pros Danny Batten and Arthur Moats. Spencer Johnson and Alex Carrington have both seen time at the position, too, but mostly as run-stoppers.