Bills vs. Bears Positional Battles: Marcus Easley vs. Buster Davis
by Brian Galliford on Aug 11, 2011 2:40 PM EDT
in Buffalo Bills Training Camp
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PrintEvery Buffalo Bills fan, it seems, will be paying attention to some specific player or positional group when the Bills open their pre-season schedule against the Chicago Bears on Saturday. I, myself, have seven different players or groups that I'll be paying attention to during (and after) the game, and I'll take you through those one by one leading up to the return of Bills football.
First up on the list: wide receiver, where the team has unparalleled depth across the rest of its roster. Specifically, I'm interested in a battle between two receivers in particular: veteran Buster Davis, and the unproven Marcus Easley.
To my eye, the Bills have five mortal locks for the opening day roster at receiver: Lee Evans, Stevie Johnson, Roscoe Parrish, David Nelson and Donald Jones. It's tough to expect them to keep more than six on the roster, and all indications are that the sixth spot will come down to a fight between Davis, Easley and Naaman Roosevelt.
I've made no secret about the fact that, for now, I believe that Roosevelt is clearly the front-runner of the group. The reason for that belief is simple: he's easily the most proven and accountable receiver of this trio. Davis has struggled with injuries in each of his first four seasons, and Easley has earned a rather sterling reputation despite barely practicing. Easley's never even appeared in a pre-season game in the NFL.
With that said, even if Roosevelt's lead is clear for the moment, it's also obvious to me that Buffalo's coaching staff doesn't see as much upside in the UB product as they do in the highly talented duo of Davis and Easley. That's not to say that the Bills don't like Roosevelt; they absolutely do. If, however, Davis or Easley (or, dare we dream, both) can prove themselves productive and accountable this pre-season, they'll likely take the route of keeping talent, even at the expense of a fan favorite-type like Roosevelt.
Davis and Easley are not especially similar player types. Davis is a smaller player with excellent speed, but has enough size to be a true nightmare matchup out of the slot. Easley is more of an outside receiver, where his size and deep speed make him more of an asset. This is made sort of irrelevant, however, by the fact that the five receivers ahead of them on the depth chart (six if you count Roosevelt) are so diverse and multi-faceted in their collective skill sets.
It would be unwise, of course, to make a judgment in this race based on one game. Buffalo is bound to be very sloppy with just two weeks' worth of practice time under their belts. It's possible that one of these two players could sneak reps in with the first or second units, mostly due to the unavailability of Parrish, but the rep counts likely won't be meaningful enough to matter. These players will likely be catching passes from Levi Brown, so tread cautiously in making snap judgments. Still, pre-season games are highly important in roster evaluations, and when it comes to Easley and Davis, both players need to produce to stick.
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Easely or Davis
I love Roosevelt, but he just doesn’t have the upside as the other two. I’d like to give the 6th spot to someone with a chance to be great. Roosevelt seems like he’ll become a solid #4 receiver, but the others have the opportunity to to be more than that. If they don’t work out, try again next year. The #6 guy isn’t going to be used very much, so I figure they might as well take a chance on a high upside guy.
practice Squad
I presume Easley could go to the PS, although another team could pick him up for the roster. Roosevelt is probably eligible, as well?
it’s also obvious to me that Buffalo’s coaching staff doesn’t see as much upside in the UB product as they do in the highly talented duo of Davis and Easley.
Why is this obvious to you?
"Slowly all the roles we act out become our identity. And in the end we are what we pretend to be." - Jerry Cantrell.
Because Gailey went out of his way to say that Roosevelt doesn’t have a lot of speed and talent?
Editor-in-Chief, BUFFALO RUMBLINGS®
@BrianGalliford
by Brian Galliford on Aug 11, 2011 2:51 PM EDT up reply actions
But Gailey has also been effusing over Naaman lately. “Gushing” is not too strong a word. Roosevelt is an incredibly consistent receiver — I believe he has not dropped one pass yet in training camp — and that matters a ton with Gailey. He is also elusive and has unusually good hands (which is why he is so consistent). I think he is a strong candidate for making the regular roster even though he is a bit slow for a WR (or, to put that a little differently, he proved in regular season games last year that he is fast enough).
I know he has. That’s why I said it’s clear that he’s in the lead. Buddy Nix, when push comes to shove, will take talent over anything else – which is why I think Davis or Easley has a shot to knock him out of that final spot.
Editor-in-Chief, BUFFALO RUMBLINGS®
@BrianGalliford
by Brian Galliford on Aug 11, 2011 3:02 PM EDT up reply actions
and then says
that he does a great job with what god did give him… so really this can be seen either way. it is just likely, that he is impressed by how he overcomes these “issues” that might be seen as a negative, and yet is always in the spot, making the catch. Wes Welker doesn’t exactly get viewed as a “burner”. In addition, catching the ball consistently is still talent.
by ThaRealTruth on Aug 11, 2011 3:00 PM EDT up reply actions
Catching the ball is talent, but the ability to gain consistent separation from coverage as well as yards after the catch is what separates decent receivers from great receivers. This is where the Davis and Easley can beat out Roosevelt.
Welker show the top end speed to burn someone deep down the field, but he’s got the short area quickness to gain separation from anyone.
i agree on all counts
except that it is a foregone conclusion that Davis and Easley are capable of doing anything… because really they haven’t proven that. Roosevelt already has a year in the system, a good deal of time on the PS, played in games at the end of the year, and MOST IMPORTANTLY has special teams ability, which could be the thing that separates them ultimately- a chance to contribute not only as depth. The other two guys MAY have more “upside” but really, that needs to be seen, and never has been with Buster, and is not a certainty with Easley. If they can be as consistent as receivers, i am on board; but this sport isn’t track. it’s football; so they better be able to play, and Naaman can ball.
by ThaRealTruth on Aug 11, 2011 3:19 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I agree. Davis and Easley need to prove themselves. My argument is merely that they have the potential to be better than Roosevelt, not that they have proven it. I don’t think they (or anyone) should be kept merely because of their combine stats.
That said, I have some beer riding on Easley starting for the Bills one day, so I hope he shows something this preseason.
don't get me wrong
i am a Marcus Easley fan. I am. ; ) but he is less useful to me if he stands on the sideline another year. Same with Roscoe. I rather have Naaman around some way shape or form, because to me, he has already shown he can do it. Like i said, MAYBE Naaman isn’t the next Percy Harvin, or DeSean Jackson, but i am fine if he is Steve Smith (Eagles) because if he can catch, and knows how to get open, and works hard, he is better than… James Hardy. I know that is harsh, but really, a tall hurt guy is not effective on game day.
by ThaRealTruth on Aug 11, 2011 4:18 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Haha, are you asking me? Because I don’t know.
"Slowly all the roles we act out become our identity. And in the end we are what we pretend to be." - Jerry Cantrell.
Editor-in-Chief, BUFFALO RUMBLINGS®
@BrianGalliford
by Brian Galliford on Aug 11, 2011 3:09 PM EDT up reply actions
@Brian
Gailey said God didn’t give him a lot of size or speed. Physical attributes and talent are two different things. It’s obvious that Gailey likes Roosevelt a lot. He’s the only one of the three you mention to produce in regular season games and practice.
Yes! Which is why I said he has a clear lead over the other two. :)
Editor-in-Chief, BUFFALO RUMBLINGS®
@BrianGalliford
by Brian Galliford on Aug 11, 2011 4:23 PM EDT up reply actions
Brian, whats the chance that the Bills keep 7 receivers?
by Xaviermw on Aug 11, 2011 2:57 PM EDT via mobile reply actions
It exists, but they’re so thin in other areas that it’ll be tough. They need numbers elsewhere.
Editor-in-Chief, BUFFALO RUMBLINGS®
@BrianGalliford
by Brian Galliford on Aug 11, 2011 3:02 PM EDT up reply actions
I think only way keep 7 WR is if they keep only 2 TE. I think Candler and Martin are in and Caussin and Pianalto fighting for 3rd TE.
by RockyTopBill on Aug 11, 2011 7:11 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
The other thing that hasn’t been mentioned is that Smith can also be lined up at WR ( I know he’s been taking snaps at QB). There is a log jam of talent at that position.
There is nothing worse than exaggeration!- Me
We all say, GO BILLS and I've always wondered, where do we want them to go? I guess to the Super Bowl! -Me
Also, out if Easley, Roosevelt, and Davis, who would be more likely to play special teams?
by Xaviermw on Aug 11, 2011 2:59 PM EDT via mobile reply actions
All three can. Easley was a fantastic special teams player at UConn, which a lot of people seem to have forgotten.
Editor-in-Chief, BUFFALO RUMBLINGS®
@BrianGalliford
by Brian Galliford on Aug 11, 2011 3:03 PM EDT up reply actions
Well I can’t think of too many people who remember watching UConn’s special teams play 3 years ago :p
by Xaviermw on Aug 11, 2011 3:10 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions 1 recs
Blocking
The decision may be so close that it will come down to which one can do the most when not catching the ball.
Easley (from reading) was supposed to be a very good blocker at UConn. He may have that as an edge.
He played with a great back in Donald Brown @ UCONN
David Nelson is a tremendous blocker for a WR as is Lee Evans, Roscoe not so much but you can’t teach size right!
If it does come down to blocking Easley has a huge edge only because I have never seen Buster Davis take a snap so i have no idea if he can block
"Big Gulps Eh, Well See ya later" - Lloyd Christmas
" You Gus ready To Let The Dogs Out" "What?" " you Know, Who Let the dogs out rough rough rogh rough" - Zack Galifinakis - The Hangover
by PaullyPforPrez on Aug 11, 2011 3:10 PM EDT up reply actions
Easley
Easley is PS eligible, Davis is not. Unless Easley gets healthy and can make an immediate impact it is highly unlikely he gets picked up. Thus, he is nothing more than PS material.
I think Davis’s best chance to make the team is to show he is better than both Roosevelt and Jones because I don’t think the Bills keep more than 5 WR’s on the roster. Especially considering Smith will be QB #3 and Spiller and F. Jax can play WR.
With the amount of talent they have at the position, I can’t see them only keeping 5. In fact, I suspect they’ll keep 7, but most disagree with me on this.
"Slowly all the roles we act out become our identity. And in the end we are what we pretend to be." - Jerry Cantrell.
I’m with you. All indications are that we are going to run spread sets very often, which means you need a full boat of receivers. I’d rather see the team skimp on another position than risk losing a good WR we’ll probably need later in the year.
Check out buddynixon.com for more of my work.
are we talking active roster?
or including PS guys? we will likely keep 2 for that. i would think at least that many really…
by ThaRealTruth on Aug 11, 2011 3:40 PM EDT up reply actions
i agree in a way
they will have 6 WRs and brad smith making it sort of 7
in my opinion, the 6 will be
stevie, evans, nelson, jones, roosevelt and a 6th
the 6th battle will be between parrish, easley, davis…
this will be a battle of injury-prones… there is no sense in keeping parrish and then cutting roosevelt for another injury-prone WR…. you keep one injury-prone player… the one with most current ability and most upside potential between parrish, easley and davis
by statcruncher on Aug 11, 2011 4:33 PM EDT up reply actions
and i know gailey says he has big things for parrish… but this guy is always injured when needed
nice guy and all but for me he is in the pool with easley and davis
by statcruncher on Aug 11, 2011 4:35 PM EDT up reply actions
Teams generally keep 26 players on D and 24 on offense.
If the Bills keep 7 WRs, 3 QB, and 4 RB/FBs that would leave only 10 spots for TE’s and OL. I don’t see it.
The numbers work if the OL has 8 – which Buffalo has done in the past – and the team only keeps 2 TEs which is possible since Gailey seems to despise the position.
I wasn't sure I was going to like the white helmets but seeing them in the practice footage, I've got to say that I love the look.
While they may have done that in the past, it seems risky this year. Since some of their penciled in starters are unproven, of questionable quality, and/or have had past injury issues, I would guess that they’ll keep the extra OL depth so that they can mix and match as they did last year.
Last year the team just plugged in street free agents whenever anyone got hurt. Georgia Tech is constatly churning out scrubs….
I wasn't sure I was going to like the white helmets but seeing them in the practice footage, I've got to say that I love the look.
You’re right. Now that I’m thinking about it more, anyone they would keep for depth isn’t significantly better than what’s on the street, so why waste the roster spot. I concede this point to you, good sir.
I don’t agree that Lee Evans is a ‘mortal lock’ for the final roster.
Check out buddynixon.com for more of my work.
If in fact Nix is listening to offers for Evans – and I’m still not remotely convinced – he’s probably not going to like what he’s getting offered.
Editor-in-Chief, BUFFALO RUMBLINGS®
@BrianGalliford
by Brian Galliford on Aug 11, 2011 3:14 PM EDT up reply actions
Is it just me
Or with Buster Davis running in Lee’s position with the 1’s, doesn’t it seem that they may be trying him out as a potential Lee replacement? He would have the speed to stretch the field in the way that Lee did.
He can’t stretch the field if he’s not on it. Again, I remain unconvinced.
Editor-in-Chief, BUFFALO RUMBLINGS®
@BrianGalliford
by Brian Galliford on Aug 11, 2011 3:20 PM EDT up reply actions
There’s no doubt Buddy is listening to offers, hence the curt, 5th amendment responses coming from Buddy when asked about the issue (Nix usually gives the ‘if we have a chance to improve our team…’ line) and the reports from multiple teams about trading for him. I also think Buddy is aware of Evans value as a late rounder… if he trades him now.
My hope is that Buddy will show patience with the situation, because the longer the Bills wait, the more desperate other teams will get, and be willing to offer more.
Check out buddynixon.com for more of my work.
On the flip side, the longer he waits, the longer the distraction drags on. I don’t think Nix would do that to the team if, in fact, he’s fielding offers.
Editor-in-Chief, BUFFALO RUMBLINGS®
@BrianGalliford
by Brian Galliford on Aug 11, 2011 3:37 PM EDT up reply actions
It’s the way Belichick handled Moss last year, despite Moss being a way bigger pain in the ass, and that might have been his most shrewd move yet. But I agree that Nix probably won’t wait.
Btw, PFT is interpreting this as Evans on the trade block, and their way less credible arch nemesis Incarcerated Bob just tweeted that’s he’s going to be released if they can’t trade him.
Check out buddynixon.com for more of my work.
I read the PFT article. Who the expletive is Incarcerated Bob?
Editor-in-Chief, BUFFALO RUMBLINGS®
@BrianGalliford
by Brian Galliford on Aug 11, 2011 3:48 PM EDT up reply actions
He’s a caller from the Fan who more or less broke the Revis holdout and subsequent end of holdout. This year especially, he’s been right on a lot of stuff before anyone, but he’s also been wrong.
For example “Clabo going to sign with the Bills. (Falcons not out of it).” That way he’s the first on the news if it’s right, and he can back off if it turns out wrong.
Check out buddynixon.com for more of my work.
so like every other journalist. ;)
I mean, “… it could go differently, or do nothing, or be just what i said” buuuuutttt: pay no attention to the fact i was consistently wrong… i got one right..
; ) right?
by ThaRealTruth on Aug 11, 2011 4:01 PM EDT up reply actions
Good point. He’s a little more loose with his standards though, so if IB mentions it, there’s probably movement, but nothing decided..
Check out buddynixon.com for more of my work.
so again
it is either something, or it isn’t. so really, it is just exactly as much as we know already. So i get ya, but really, any one of us has discussed all and any possibility a million times over, and so the thought isn’t necessarily anything, until it gets put out there… and Twitter and blogs allow any of us to do this at any time. So it amounts to a hill of beans, until Shefter says it. (hahahaha i kid.) until it is reported by everyone i don’t buy it as more than speculation. that’s just me.
by ThaRealTruth on Aug 11, 2011 4:10 PM EDT up reply actions
ugh.
shefter reporting…. ; )
really hope we don’t get rid of Lee, even if it means he has a real QB and another great receiver opposite of him. He could maybe already have that here now… Can’t we just SEE?
by ThaRealTruth on Aug 11, 2011 11:35 PM EDT up reply actions
See?
What? Fitz to Lee? That would be new!
Baby steps are for babies. Step it up buffalo!
by buffalobacker on Aug 12, 2011 3:01 AM EDT up reply actions
according to BB.com blog post
"Nothing’s changed with Lee," Nix said. "He’s a Bill. We’re counting on him. As far as I know, speculation is all it is."
i would hope/think he would certainly know- so if there was something, he just lied to everyone. So really, i just don’t see a real reason for trade talk at all. Some random reporter thinks “i wonder what to write today- this would spark discussion and interest” and “Lee on the block” is born…
I really can’t see why we worry about the 3 million he costs, compared to what COULD be an elite receiver finally (see: Roscoe Parrish progression) especially when paying half that in a bonus already anyway. He is here this season- and if his production doesn’t improve, he will be cut. If he continues to draw coverage, or Stevie continues to improve, forcing the coverage to shade his way, Lee has too much potential still to ignore. This same argument applies for Davis, but not in comparison to Lee- because really it should be obvious to most, that this is really a no-brainer decision. I take the guy who has done it in the past over the guy who could maybe, someday, possibly do it in the future.
by ThaRealTruth on Aug 11, 2011 3:48 PM EDT up reply actions
Blessed
Does everyone remember how long Josh Reed was #2 WR. Times are much better in receiverville.
It's simple, but it aint easy. *2
by Undee on Aug 11, 2011 3:12 PM EDT reply actions 1 recs
I thought we'd never speak of that again
now I’m not going to sleep tonight thanks Undee :)
There is nothing worse than exaggeration!- Me
We all say, GO BILLS and I've always wondered, where do we want them to go? I guess to the Super Bowl! -Me
haha, Josh Reed...
His college stats were sick though…
2000 – 65 Rec, 1127 yds, 10 TD
2001 – 94 Rec, 1740 yds, 7TD
Lol, his junior season he averaged almost 8 catches and 150yds per game…
by JustAskTheAxis on Aug 11, 2011 3:35 PM EDT up reply actions
He has pro bowl written all over him.
by Xaviermw on Aug 11, 2011 3:54 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
does anyone know why bills released him outright last year?
by statcruncher on Aug 11, 2011 4:38 PM EDT up reply actions
Maye because he’s not very good?
I wasn't sure I was going to like the white helmets but seeing them in the practice footage, I've got to say that I love the look.
by Ron From NM on Aug 11, 2011 4:47 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
that's not true..
why give parrish more opportunity and not give reed the opportunity?
by statcruncher on Aug 11, 2011 4:49 PM EDT up reply actions
Jones
Not sure he is a lock. I think he is intrenched in fighting for a roster spot as well. Anytime that there is a lot of depth talent, anything can happen.
"Sit down and watch my Buffalo Bills destroy your Kingdome" - Abayarde
I’ll respectfully disagree. Jones was, bar none, the team’s best special teams player last year – by a very, very considerable margin – and was productive as a receiver. No way he’s going anywhere.
Editor-in-Chief, BUFFALO RUMBLINGS®
@BrianGalliford
by Brian Galliford on Aug 11, 2011 3:38 PM EDT up reply actions
Agreed
Plus w/ Roscoe’s hammy- more opportunities for him to prove it on Sat. in the slot.
Steve Tasker he is not. I wouldn’t call 18 rec for 213 yard and 1 TD productive. Does he have a leg up; probably. Can’t agree with a lock though. Andra Davis was a starter at MLB last year, he is not even a lock to make the team.
"Sit down and watch my Buffalo Bills destroy your Kingdome" - Abayarde
Marcus Easley
I like Naaman Roosevelt, but he just doesn’t have the upside of Easley. I think if Easley stays healthy he will beast in the pre-season and earn the 6th spot.
Twitter @J_Clark_1989
But the flip side is Easley hasn’t done anything yet, and Naaman has.
Check out buddynixon.com for more of my work.
and luckily now we have the preseason
to find out. because really, this is the main point of the whole discussion. Do we take upside, or do we take proven ability. One guy might never be “GREAT” but could be consistent and reliable and a worker. The other could have AMAZING POTENTIAL, and is injured every second. We already have enough questions with starters, to be worried about what COULD be… we gotta go with the best we got right now.
by ThaRealTruth on Aug 11, 2011 3:53 PM EDT up reply actions
Roos to PS
That is a possibility, the question is will anyone else want him? Who knows, maybe the Jets or someone would pluck him, they’d say a guy just makes plays.
I can't think of one WR who is a lock
Most coaches will tell you that there is no such thing as a lock
Most coaches are lying then.
"Slowly all the roles we act out become our identity. And in the end we are what we pretend to be." - Jerry Cantrell.
Andre Johnson is a lock
There certainly are exceptions to that “rule”; if it exists. I have never personally heard that sentiment before. New to me. I mean, Megatron is a lock. Probably could say that Fitzgerald and any other proven, elite receiver is a lock to produce, make the roster, and help lead your team… and a pretty significant list can be made of WRs who fit that mold. Most #1s… apparently not ours, but many teams have a WR who isn’t going anywhere. AJ Green has not “proven” himself yet, but he is a lock too. So there is such thing, i would say.
by ThaRealTruth on Aug 11, 2011 3:58 PM EDT up reply actions
lol
Baby steps are for babies. Step it up buffalo!
by buffalobacker on Aug 11, 2011 5:05 PM EDT up reply actions
It's A Team Sport
All the hyperbole aside, there just absolutely has to be a place on this team for someone who always catches the ball.
But it just may be that Roosevelt will have to wait his turn if we find that the O-line is not doing its job, and the skill players need to block or be very fast in order to have any offense.
All I can see right now is Fitzpatrick being pressured on every play, and the offense having to employ all types of misdirection to keep Ryan from becoming Miracle Gro.
Go big or go home.
Am I the only one...
who isn’t enamored with our WR corps? We have one guy who has been a consistently solid NFL receiver who is now, unfortunately, on the downside of his career. We have another guy with one season of production. And we have 5 or 6 other younger guys (not counting Brad Smith because who knows what exactly he’s going to be doing) who have little to no production and we think might have potential.
Potential does not equal talent in this league – just ask the 40-50% of 1st and 2nd round busts that come out of college… Just ask Maybin, lol… I agree that we have depth at WR, but it might just be deep with mediocrity – I hope these guys do develop into legit NFL contributors, but as for right now, I’m not 100% sold on this group. It might be a strength on this team (3rd worst in the NFL last season) but I don’t think it’s all that strong in relation to the rest of the league.
Also note that I don’t necessarily think it’s weak either – without actually going through team by team, I’d have them ranked off the top of my head somewhere around 15th or 16th as a unit.
by JustAskTheAxis on Aug 11, 2011 3:45 PM EDT up reply actions
i see your point
but really, a receiver’s production being tied to QB production, and consistent line play, and intelligent play calling… so it is hard to say what level we can or should expect any teams core is. i totally understand that if looking at certain teams (Pack, Saints, Eagles, maybe Vikes) have a more potentially proven core of guys, where as there are other teams who without their starter at QB (those aforementioned plus Pats, Colts, Giants and Chargers) are guys who aren’t going to make that backup QB be better. I wouldn’t be enamored with the Colts receivers w Painter at the helm… So it is a very difficult thing to assess, i guess is what i am saying.
by ThaRealTruth on Aug 11, 2011 4:07 PM EDT up reply actions
definitely agree that it is tied to QB play, which is tied to O-Line play – games are won and lost in the trenches…
by JustAskTheAxis on Aug 11, 2011 4:30 PM EDT up reply actions
In Defense Of WR's
Gotta have a team effort to make the passing/running game work. Maybe Fitz running for his life or poor throws, bad blocking effects the passing game. doesn’t mean WR aren’t good enough. It would seem we at least have potential at WR.
Baby steps are for babies. Step it up buffalo!
by buffalobacker on Aug 11, 2011 5:09 PM EDT up reply actions
Man I hope Easley has a real good Pre-Season...
and can stay healthy the whole time.
If Roosevelt wasnt a local boy I dont think a lot of fans would have a hard time letting him go or to the PS… Hes a good solid receiver, but hes nothing more than a 4th or 5, whereas I think Easley, of course he still has to prove it, has the chance to be a 1 or 2 in this league.
Now attending the Univ. of Hockey.
i actually like davis a lot but if easley performs in camp and preseason and stays healthy i think he should be our 6th guy regardless of anything else, his upside is tremendous.
by snakebyte18 on Aug 11, 2011 3:50 PM EDT via mobile reply actions
What is his upside really?
He’s never played a full season in college and hasn’t made it out of an NFL training camp yet – he had one moderately productive season in college – he’s fast, but he’s not slow – he’s got decent size, but he’s not huge – what is it about Easley that makes everyone on this board love him so much?
by JustAskTheAxis on Aug 11, 2011 4:01 PM EDT up reply actions
His combination of size and speed is pretty common for NFL receivers right now – and some of them are good and some are bad – I guess what I’m getting at is people on this board always bring up his upside, but yet he hardly played in college and didn’t play at all last season and hasn’t hit the field yet this season – I’m not saying he can’t be good, I’m just wondering what upside people see from a guy who hasn’t played at all?
by JustAskTheAxis on Aug 11, 2011 4:33 PM EDT up reply actions
his combination is not common as you think
very few teams have successful 220+ lb 6’2"+ receiver who is fast…
if you have that size of a receiver with speed and good route running skills, you have a geniune #1 receiver for years… one who can play slot against physical linebackersand deep against corners…
even we dont have anyone like that… stevie doesnt have speed and size but awesome ability… evans has speed but no size and route running skills… jones has the height but not the physicality and not have the speed…
so, yes, easley has the best upside in the team
by statcruncher on Aug 11, 2011 4:47 PM EDT up reply actions
Every team in the league has at least one guy with that size and speed – the real key is how well does he run his routes and read coverages? His pre-draft stuff said not very well, but I don’t hold a ton of stock in that at this point – I think people think he has the most upside because they’ve never seen him play, lol – Kind of like Brohm last year – the mystery is always appealing
by JustAskTheAxis on Aug 11, 2011 4:54 PM EDT up reply actions
I do agree that some of the love he is getting is because he is a mystery. As Bills fans, some of us have to be eternally optimistic in order to stay sane. That results in us overvaluing guys.
With that in mind, I think you’re slightly exaggerating how common the physical traits are in the NFL. A lot of 6’2" guys in the NFL are slower (for WRs) and are possession receivers. Those that do have his height and speed tend to be lankier guys who don’t have the power. The fact that he has height, speed, and a powerful build intrigues people. It’s true that he is extremely raw and that his routes aren’t perfect which is why he was a fourth-rounder and not a first. He’s not super rare, he’s just uncommon which makes it worth seeing if he can put it together on the field.
Yes, there are a lot of guys in the league that are that size and speed and they seem to either turn out to be scrubs or all-pros. Easley fits into neither of these categories yet because he is still so raw coming from limited snaps at a smaller football school.
Easley can turn into TO or he can turn into Mike Sims Walker when he doesn’t feel like playing hard (sorry, can’t think of anything worse than that — that we would remember anyways). Because of the mystery, the sky is the limit. Roosevelt’s upside isn’t nearly as exciting (I can only think of a not as good version of Houshmanzadah right now, don’t really think that’s a great comparison though).
I think at this point in the rebuild, you have to take the upside at those last roster spots. The last wide receiver isn’t going to get that many snaps anyways — do you keep that spot open for the guy who might be able to move from last to your #1 guy or do you keep the guy who will move from last to your #4 guy.
I like Roosevelt, but I almost think he is at a disservice here in Buffalo. I think he could go and have stability on quite a few teams as a #4 or #3 somewhere.
He's Fast, But He's Not Slow?
Sounds good to me. :)
Baby steps are for babies. Step it up buffalo!
by buffalobacker on Aug 11, 2011 5:11 PM EDT up reply actions
This battle will be decided by..
who is still healthy at the start of the season. I would be amazed if all 8 receivers are healthy enough to start when the season begins. I certainly hope so but that is still 4 weeks of practices.
It's nice to have so many options!
As I see it…Great depth and it will be exciting to watch. I hope Easley can get through this 1st preseason game…It will put a lot wondering to rest. A lot of tough decisions coming up! As most have already stated: Being healthy is the biggest factor. Roscoe’s hammy could also come into the decision process. Uggghhh?
Practice Squad
I feel like Easley would be easier to stash on the practice squad if it comes down to he or Roosevelt. I know that Easley is viewed as more talented but Roosevelt has proven he can contribute and there is evidence (if minimal) on film. Easley has been injured and might more easily go under the radar if the Bills try to pass him through waivers.
"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
Some thoughts
The more I think about it teh more I wonder if the Bills will indeed keep 7 WRs. I can see the team rolling with two TEs, particularly since Gailey seems to regard TE as an afterthought anyway. With Nelson a willing blocker (not to be confused with a blocking TE) I can see the team going with 7 WR, 2 TE, 3 QB (Fitz, Thigpen, B Smith), 4 RB/FB, and 8 or 9 OL for either 24 or 25 roster spots. In theory the team could go with 7 WR, 3 TE, 3 QB, 4 RB/FB and 8 OL for 25 roster spots. Or if the team wants to go heavy on defense 7 WR, 2 TE, 3 QB, 4 RB/FB and 8 OL for 24 roster spots….leaving 26 for the defense.
Nix drafted Easley so I can see some natural reticence to letting him go. Plus, if the Bills cut him in an effort to stash him on the PS there’s a good chance that a team like Arizona might snatch him—or even sign him from the PS. I seem to recall that Easley shined in OTAs and training camp before getting hurt. He’s been hurt and has just now gotten back on teh field. We should know in the next week or two if he shines in camp this season, too. Also, if Easley has better deep speed than anyone but Evans I can see Nix keeping him so that Evans has a replacement on the roster for when Evans’ contract expires. Or if Evans gets traded at some point.
Nix may have had some involvement in Davis landing in San Diego. We know that he’s the one who brought Davis to Buffalo. As with Easley, he is a Nix pick (maybe twice?) and he’s also been hurt too much to demonstrated his worth. With Parrish being somewhat fragile by NFL standards having another slot guy around makes a lot of sense.
I kind of doubt that Roosevelt is going anywhere. If he gets cut I dont’ see teams rushing to sign him. I don’t know if he has PS eligibility but even if he doesn’t I suspect he’d be avaialble if one of the other WRs got hurt during the season. A little under the table money may even keep him afloat financially so he can keep himself in shape and up to speed on the playbook.
I wasn't sure I was going to like the white helmets but seeing them in the practice footage, I've got to say that I love the look.
by Ron From NM on Aug 11, 2011 4:06 PM EDT reply actions 1 recs
I am in agreement about 7wrs, although I’m not sure if they would cut a TE spot due to their utility in goal line sets.
Check out buddynixon.com for more of my work.
You only need 2 TEs when you consider that the Bills have a blocking FB in McIntyre. The 9th guy can be an extra OL or even a DL—with the 10th and 11th being the QB and RB. Oh, hell, go with 5 linemen, 2 TE, 2 extra OL (or DL, or an OL and a DL), McIntyre and Brad Smith in the shotgun. Let Smith find a hole and run the ball. Smith and 10 blockers….wow. That’s a fun thought!
I wasn't sure I was going to like the white helmets but seeing them in the practice footage, I've got to say that I love the look.
I think 5 is more likely than 7. You have two RB’s who can act as WR’s and Brad Smith…that is 8 bodies that can play WR without even including Nelson. I would agree the only way the Bills keep 7 is by having two TE’s but it my opinion that the Bills keep 5 WRs, (6 if you include Brad Smith), and 3 TEs. While I expect we will see 5 WR sets I do not expect that to be the norm. You will see more 4 WR and 1 RB sets that 5 WR sets. Thus 7 is just too many. 6 maybe…but I still believe 5 with two bodies on the practice squad.
Wait and See?
I would not be surprised come Sunday/Monday that legitimate offers come in for some of our WR’s. Assuming all goes well on the health front…There are too many teams that do not have the depth like we do. Its an opportunity for these guys to showcase there talent not just for us but the league. It will be an interesting few days following this week’s game. Some tough decisions to be made IMO. Good luck and stay healthy boys!
Why Would Roscoe Be A Lock
He’s a dynamic player that I know chan likes, but you’ll be lucky to get 10 games out of him. I’d rather keep Easley if he shows anything at all. We’ve already got enough gimmicky type of players with Brad Smith and the new #28. Don’t NEED to keep Roscoe if you like the upside of other guys.
Roscoe is not a gimmicky player, he’s a slot receiver.
"Slowly all the roles we act out become our identity. And in the end we are what we pretend to be." - Jerry Cantrell.
by stetzwebs on Aug 11, 2011 4:28 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I tend to agree with you…If Roscoe can get healthy, I say lets see what we can get for him. I believe we can replace him easier than Evans. Roscoe is only 1yr younger and w/ recent injury streak…Maybe its time. Tough decisions but a lot of options with this group.
Parrish was a nightmare matchup for defensive coordinators last season. He’s way too fast for LBs to cover and quicker than most DBs. Plus, with the ball in his hands in space he’s a threat to turn the play into a pseudo-return and weave his way through the handful of defenders between him and the endzone.
I wasn't sure I was going to like the white helmets but seeing them in the practice footage, I've got to say that I love the look.
You answered your own question. :)
Editor-in-Chief, BUFFALO RUMBLINGS®
@BrianGalliford
by Brian Galliford on Aug 11, 2011 5:46 PM EDT up reply actions
The way I see it, we can't lose.
Let the competition begin, I don’t see any of these three players becoming the next Steve Johnson, but one of them could turn into a solid contributor on the team if things pan out for them. With that in mind, most Bills fans (including me) don’t have enough information on ANY of these three in game situations. Let’s see how the preseason goes — may the best man win.
Go Buffalo Bills, Utah Jazz, and Arkansas Razorbacks
Sorry, off topic
Besides the WR’s…Are there any UDRFA that have a shot or that look promising?
Only guy I can remember offhand is a WR, Kamar Aiken from UCF. Seems like people tweeting from training camp have mentioned a few big plays from him — of course he is playing aginst the 3rd or 4th string defense.
The scouting report out of UCF read a lot like what D Nelson brings to the table — big guy who uses his body well but isn’t a burner.
Whoa!
And Buddy Nix doesn’t quash the trade-evans rumors.
"I won’t comment on Lee specifically," Nix told Ross Tucker on Sirius NFL Radio via BuffaloBills.com. "As a whole, we’re always looking to upgrade and create competition on our roster. We’re all capable of being replaced, including me."
Translation: Evans is available.
If it was Marcel Dareus or Kyle Williams or even Stevie Johnson, Nix would simply shut the conversation down.
Well, if Nix is going to send Evans to Arizona for a saguaro to plant in front of the stadium (which would die almost the moment it was stuck into the non-sandy ground) then I guess the whole topic of which WR to keep becomes moot. If the Bills go with 7 WR the list would be Johnson, Parrish, Jones, Nelson, Easley, Roosevelt, and Davis.
I wasn't sure I was going to like the white helmets but seeing them in the practice footage, I've got to say that I love the look.
Sounds like Nix is trying to trade himself for some draft picks. That would help with our youth movement.
Ha!
I doubt we’d get even a cactus for Nix.
I wasn't sure I was going to like the white helmets but seeing them in the practice footage, I've got to say that I love the look.
HaHa
Funny!
Baby steps are for babies. Step it up buffalo!
by buffalobacker on Aug 11, 2011 5:13 PM EDT up reply actions
I am unemotional. Let the best man win.
Roosevelt: Has experience, proved it late last year. Knows the system.
Easley: Lots of promise. Always hurt.
Buster: See Easley.
Bottom line. I would love to see the latter two come forward because of potential, but are they both just another Hardy/Limas Sweed? (Who both are in camps right now trying to make a roster).
Take the healthy guy who knows the system. Unless one of the latter two look like Andre Reed during the preseason.
"There is not a loser in this room." Marv Levy.
by SERGEANT MAJOR THOR on Aug 11, 2011 6:52 PM EDT reply actions
Off topic, but what in the world is a "mortal lock"?
Mortal danger = danger of death
Mortal combat = combat to the death
Mortal sin = condemns soul after death
Mortal lock = don’t get it?
Well, they really better not get cut then!
by beninbrooklyn on Aug 11, 2011 8:21 PM EDT up reply actions
ouch Lee..
The more I think about it, I think its ok for Buddy to just clean house.
by SpiderWeb Sleeves on Aug 11, 2011 7:23 PM EDT via mobile reply actions
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