With the NFL lockout now a distant memory, teams can begin negotiating with free agents today, but won't be able to sign them until Friday. Those players also won't be able to practice until August 4 at the earliest. Last night, the NFL confirmed that the Buffalo Bills will have 11 free agents free to negotiate with other teams.
Tendered RFA: One name, tight end Scott Chandler, fits this description. The Bills tendered Chandler prior to the lockout in March, meaning that the Bills have right of first refusal should Chandler get an offer elsewhere. He carries fourth-round compensation should the Bills let him walk.
Non-Tendered RFA: Three names fit this description - all four have fewer than four years of accrued NFL experience, and none of them were tendered by the Bills pre-lockout. Those players are quarterback Brian Brohm, running back Quinton Ganther and tight end Jonathan Stupar.
Unrestricted: Seven Bills from the 2010 season are unrestricted free agents, and free to negotiate with any club. Those players: defensive tackle John McCargo, linebackers Akin Ayodele, Keith Ellison and Paul Posluszny, cornerbacks Drayton Florence and Ashton Youboty, and safety Donte Whitner.
Let the games begin.