Buffalo Bills, Fred Jackson Making Contract Progress, Per Speculative Report

In a report that's far more speculation than substance, Joe Buscaglia of WGR 550 indicates that the Buffalo Bills may be making progress on a contract extension for star running back Fred Jackson.

Buscaglia's basis for the story: a succinct reply to an inquiry about the progress of negotiations from Jackson's agent, Ron Raccuia, who told Buscaglia to make that inquiry again in a "couple of days." Buscaglia theorizes that the shortness of the reply could indicate a deal is close - or that negotiations are in a state where information leaks need to be minimized.

It's been clear all off-season that opening dialogue with Jackson's representatives has been the top post-draft priority for GM Buddy Nix, and that is apparently precisely what has happened. Many veteran players - including Jackson - have been in Buffalo working out, but organized team activities for veterans do not begin until May 29, so the team still has a good three weeks to work with if they're intent on getting Jackson signed in time for his actual job responsibilities to resume.

Jackson, 31, is coming off of a career year in Buffalo - one in which he set career highs in rushing and receiving yards per game (93.4 and 44.2, respectively), averaged a marvelous 5.5 yards per rush, and scored a career-high six rushing touchdowns.