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We're here at Buffalo Rumblings to keep you posted on the Buffalo Bills' happenings from the top of the roster all the way to the bottom. While Brian is currently highlighting the most competitive training camp battles to keep an eye on focusing on the starting lineup and top reserves, I'll be running down through each position group, matching players against each other that could fill out the bottom of the roster.
Kendall Gaskins vs. Drew Smith
Name | Acquired | Age | Ht | Wt | Speed |
Kendall Gaskins | UDFA (Richmond) | 23 | 6'1" | 238 | 4.70 |
Drew Smith | UDFA (Albany) | 23 | 6'2" | 225 | 4.65 |
The Bills have one of the best one-two-punches in the NFL at the running back position, featuring C.J. Spiller and Fred Jackson. However, Jackson is 32 years old and his professional career appears to be coming to a close. The Bills had trouble converting in short-yardage situations last year, whether it was third down or a goal-line situation. The front office obviously realized this, as they decided to bring in two larger running backs that should battle for the No. 3 job alongside veteran Tashard Choice.
Gaskins played both fullback and running back during his collegiate career at Richmond, where he rushed for over 1,700 yards and scored 37 touchdowns. While he's roughly 240 pounds, Gaskins was nimble enough to prove himself an effective receiver out of the backfield, an aspect of his game that will prove valuable in an offense based off of West Coast system principles.
When I asked Gaskins about this versatility that he brings to a scheme (for BillsMafia.com back in May), he told me: "Versatility is key. By showing that I can not only run the ball, but block well and catch the ball out the backfield, I'll be able to showcase my talent and value that I can bring to the Buffalo Bills."
Smith, meanwhile, is another interesting prospect to keep an eye on during training camp. A former quarterback, Smith appeared in 43 games in his college career at SUNY Albany, gaining 3,196 yards on the ground and 765 through the air, while scoring 45 total touchdowns (40 rush, five receiving).
Smith is a bit smaller than Gaskins, but both have similar speed, as both consistently clocked in the 4.5 range. While neither is a lock to make the team, both could bring some excitement throughout training camp and the preseason when they should see significant touches.
What say you, Rumblers? Do you think either Gaskins or Smith can push Choice for the No. 3 job?