Two Bills Drive

‘“Definitely going to do all I can to have the body prepared,” Jackson said. “Do everything I can to prevent future injuries. That’s the biggest thing for me, just trying to get healthy and make sure I stay healthy.”’

‘This was not an easy or popular decision for Brandon Beane or ownership. But loving the Bills means wanting more than almost. It means choosing discomfort in pursuit of greatness.’

‘The clinic was not supposed to be a job interview. Orgeron had an offensive coordinator, Steve Ensminger, and nobody at LSU had heard of Brady before its special teams coordinator, Greg McMahon, mentioned a young coach who earned the trust and respect of Payton and Carmichael. The magnitude of that clinic did not cross Brady’s mind until he returned to their car. As soon as he and Carmichael sat down, the veteran coach said, “That guy is probably going to hire you shortly.” Back in Tiger Stadium, Orgeron turned to his oldest son, then an offensive analyst, Tyler Spotts-Orgeron, who recalled Ed saying: “We have got to get that guy on staff.”‘

‘I wouldn’t rule out the possibility of trying Johnson at safety. If not, leaving him at nickel cornerback is an option. If that’s the case, the Bills would be wise to seek a pay cut on Johnson’s part. He’s signed two contract extensions with the team heading into his ninth season. He made one of the biggest plays in franchise history. He’s been a great player for the team, but his play took a step back last season.’

‘The Seahawks’ victory Sunday had a combined peak rating of 44.0 at 8 p.m. before Bad Bunny’s halftime show, which was performed almost entirely in Spanish.’

‘In moving to a 3-4 defense, the Bills are going to need linebackers. Thompson was their best last season. He brought a toughness to the defense that elevated the entire group. He’s got experience playing in a 3-4 scheme, which is especially important with the transition the team will make under new coordinator Jim Leonhard. Thompson’s age (31) is somewhat concerning, but in a way it works to the Bills’ advantage, because he’s not likely to secure a long-term, lucrative contract on the free-agent market. Given the Bills’ minimal amount of cap space, Thompson should be affordable.’

‘John Fox brings 16 years of head coaching experience as a senior defensive coach under Brady, who’s transitioning from the Bills’ offensive coordinator to Sean McDermott’s replacement. Fox filled a similar advisory role with the Indianapolis Colts and Detroit Lions in 2022 and 2023, respectively.’

‘While his contributions on the field have been minimal, Trubisky is a trusted sounding board for Allen, both during the practice week and on the sideline during games. After every offensive drive, Allen takes a seat on the bench directly next to Trubisky, and the two break down the previous possession.’

‘The Audacy-owned station can’t afford a rights fee worthy of being associated with the teams, and the teams don’t have any leverage to get more money anywhere else in a market the size of Buffalo. Audacy owns the three most powerful AM stations in Western New York – WGR 550, WBEN 930 and WWKB 1520 – and no other radio group owning stations here is in the financial position to pay a worthy rights fee because of the diminishing power of traditional radio.’