In a move that came firmly out of left field, the Buffalo Bills have agreed to terms on a contract with free agent all-purpose threat Brad Smith, formerly of the New York Jets. Per ESPN's Adam Schefter, it's a four-year, $15 million deal.
Smith, 27, is entering his sixth NFL season out of Missouri, where he was a quarterback. As a pro, the 6'2", 212-pound Smith has built a career on versatility, as he's been a sub-package quarterback, runner, receiver, kick returner and specialist for the Jets - and done all of those things exceedingly well.
In 2011, game day roster rules are changing; rather than having 45 active players and a designated third quarterback, teams will be allowed to dress 46 active players. It's very possible that Smith will serve that third quarterback role on game days, giving the Bills unparalleled roster versatility without the team needing to sacrifice one of its many young receivers.
Smith is a player that Chan Gailey can build entire offensive sub-packages around; he's done it before with his "Slash" concept for Kordell Stewart, and Smith has the same capabilities. Under Gailey, Buffalo is committing to a spread system - perhaps with an emphasis on Pistol formations - and Smith adds another dimension to the spread system. This signing feels a little luxurious, but Smith's versatility and Gailey's innovation could make him a highly useful addition.