Archives for March 8, 2009

‘But just because this signing was made out of desperation doesn’t automatically make it wrong. After all, sometimes it takes desperate situations to create real change. The Bills are starving for another talent to plug alongside Lee Evans at wide receiver. They thought that’s what James Hardy represented when they drafted the Indiana product in the second round of the 2008 draft, but he only disappointed before blowing out his knee late in the season.’

‘”This is a disaster for the Bills,” an NFL coach, who requested anonymity told me. “They’ve got a problem with (RB Marshawn Lynch, who recently pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor gun charge) and this is another guy that they don’t need on that roster.”‘

‘Owens should have a positive influence on Lee Evans and Josh Reed — receivers who will learn something from the way Owens prepares and practices. That’s one of the strange contradictions about Owens. As combustible as he can be in the locker room, his work ethic is admirable.’

‘For Owens to work in a one-year experiment — he signed a deal to play in Buffalo for $6.5 million in 2009 — he must believe he’s the clear go-to guy and marquee player. He’s exactly that for the Bills, because no one else on their current roster can match his kind of star power.’

‘My guess is that Owens gets off to a great honeymoon in Buffalo. Fans in Orchard Park and at training camp at St John Fisher will be chanting his name. He will love the attention. He will make plays. He will make a spectacle of himself. Does that mean they will finally make the playoffs? If they do, this might be worth it. But ask the people in San Fran, Philly and Dallas if it was worth all the aggravation. Dick Jauron always says "He likes his guys" I am waiting to hear him say that about T.O.’

‘Last season, Owens reportedly clashed with teammates, particularly tight end Jason Witten, a player Owens supposedly felt quarterback Tony Romo favored. Owens was also reportedly at odds with Cowboys offensive coordinator Jason Garrett. The controversy came on the heels of a list of others in which Owens has been a central figure, including a frosty relationship with former Eagles teammate Donovan McNabb, an accidental overdose of painkillers, and numerous animated touchdown celebrations.’

‘Buffalo was in need of another proven weapon on the offensive side of the ball and hosted free agents like Laveranues Coles and Joey Galloway. Owens production on the field is far and away better than what either of the previous two visitors have been able to muster.’

‘”I must move on, and it’s another beginning for me,” Owens said. “If I can be that extra added piece to get them to the playoffs, then that’s what I’m here for. I looked at the defensive side of ball and offensive side of the ball, and these guys have all the pieces.”‘