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In a Thursday morning radio appearance on WGR 550's The Howard Simon Show, Buffalo Bills GM Doug Whaley told Simon and Jeremy White that the team has already reached out to Jerry Hughes and his agent regarding a contract extension.
Whaley cautioned that he's not up to date on the latest regarding the negotiations - he's been a bit busy interviewing a dozen coaches and working with new head coach Rex Ryan to fill out his coaching staff - but did confirm that Jim Overdorf has been in contact with Hughes' representation.
we asked Whaley if Jerry Hughes was signed yet. He said hopefully theyre getting it done now. That would be sweet!
— Howard WGR (@hsimon62) January 15, 2015
Hughes, 26, is coming off of back-to-back 10-sack seasons - one in the defense Ryan is about to install in 2013, and the other under departed coordinator Jim Schwartz this past season. A versatile athlete and emerging speed rusher, Hughes received All-Pro votes this season on the Bills' loaded defensive line. He's spent the last two seasons with the Bills, having been acquired via a May 2013 trade involving linebacker Kelvin Sheppard.
Whaley also confirmed that the team plans on making an attempt to re-sign running back C.J. Spiller, as well, but it's also clear that retaining Hughes is the team's top priority before free agency begins.