Buffalo Bills Can't Rely On Free Agency To Address Pass Rush

The Buffalo Bills have a major problem rushing the passer, but they may have to try to strike gold in the 2012 NFL Draft to address it. In an unusually strong year for pass rushers in free agency, circumstances - as they appear now, at least - point to that talent pool drying up rather quickly.

Last week, I wrote a lengthy post about the absurdity of the idea that Mario Williams would end up in Buffalo. That's not happening. But Williams isn't the only attractive option; alas, all the others look like they'll be tied up, as well.

Cliff Avril of Detroit isn't going anywhere, says Peter King - even though he's threatening to hold out if he's franchise tagged. All signs point to Robert Mathis returning to Indianapolis, whether via extension or franchise tag. John Abraham will be 34 this season and isn't a full-time player anymore, but even if he somehow slips Atlanta's grasp, he's 34.

The most realistic free agent option may be Jeremy Mincey of Jacksonville. The 28-year-old fifth-year pro is coming off an eight-sack contract season, and though he is reportedly the Jaguars' top free agent priority, he's not the slam dunk to return that others are. Mincey had only seven sacks in his first three seasons, and did not play in 2009 due to injury.

Clearly, the Bills have an urgent pass-rushing need. It's just looking increasingly unlikely that they'll be able to satisfactorily address it via free agency.