Houston Texans defensive end Mario Williams is now officially a free agent, and per Sean Jensen of the Chicago Sun-Times, the Buffalo Bills are a "surprise" contender for the pass rusher's services.

Williams, 27, was long considered this year's top available free agent prior to last week's release of Peyton Manning by the Indianapolis Colts. The seventh-year pro and former No. 1 overall pick is a two-time Pro Bowl player with 53 career sacks.

With $30.8 million in available cap space, the Bills certainly have enough money to enter the bidding on Williams. Jason La Canfora of NFL.com reports, however, that Williams is also being heavily pursued by the Chicago Bears - and the Bills and Bears are certain to be joined by other teams - and that Williams' first visit, expected to be with Lovie Smith and company, could also be his last. The Bears are looking to pair Williams with Julius Peppers.

This is the second report we've heard today regarding the Bills' interest in a big-money free agent, as they are also reportedly interested in pursuing San Diego Chargers receiver Vincent Jackson.