Archives for December 22, 2000

‘After defeating Tennessee in the opener, the highlight was a midseason stretch that saw the Bills go 4-0, winning three on the road. … The lowlight was a 33-6 defeat to the Miami Dolphins on Dec. 3, the second game in the Bills’ current four-game skid.’

‘It would cost the Bills a $4.5 million salary cap hit to dump Flutie, and that figure rises to $6.5 million to dump Johnson. It’s financial suicide, and Flutie doesn’t see it happening.’

‘During the last year of his contract, Butler kept hearing from other general managers and agents that he was grossly underpaid.’

‘The defense rests. So should Spanos. He should stop his search for a general manager before it begins. He should do what’s best for his team and what’s right for his organization. He should hire John Butler. Now.’

‘While his back is still not fully healed, his mind is at ease. In his last seven games, Wiley has been in on 57 tackles, including a career-high 17 against New England, and recorded 7 1/2 sacks.’

‘"It’s been said I was looking to get out," said Butler, "but that’s totally incorrect. My contract expired Feb. 28; two days later free agency starts. Most clubs have to have people in place and prepared the minute free agency opens. There wasn’t going to be any type of advantage for me."’