Archives for May 4, 2012

‘Buffalo’s special teams units aren’t necessarily in need of a major boost in talent. They did have the number one kick coverage unit in the league, ranked fourth in punt return average and 11th overall in the widely recognized special teams rankings compiled by Dallas Morning News columnist Rick Gosselin.’

‘Tyler Thigpen, who signed a three-year contract last July, is currently the primary backup with Brad Smith available for wildcat plays and dire emergencies. Thigpen, 28, is a former seventh-round pick with just 12 NFL starts in five years. Also added to the mix was rookie Aaron Crop, a free agent from Richmond who wasn’t drafted. Crop was a transfer from USC and a "sleeper" type prospect in pre-draft reports.’

‘The Bills sent second-year left tackle Chris Hairston a loud message with the selection of Cordy Glenn in the second round of last week’s NFL draft. The left tackle spot is wide open after the loss of Demetress Bell to the Eagles in free agency. Glenn was among the top college prospects available, and was taken with the 41st overall pick. Hairston was a fourth-round pick last year, 122nd overall.’

‘Numbers 90-99 are taken. No. 78, worn by Pro Football Hall of Famer Bruce Smith, hasn’t been retired by the team but the equipment men don’t hand it out anymore.’

‘"I wouldn’t be able to live with myself, knowing I left hurt," he said. "That’s how you left your career, how you left the NFL, was known as a guy that was hurt all the time?’

‘rk wrapped up his collegiate career by being named an American Football Coaches Association first team All-America after his senior season, when he had 108 tackles (nine for loss, three sacks), two interceptions and two forced fumbles. He registered 377 career tackles (51 for loss, 15.5 sacks), six interceptions and five forced fumbles. Clark also served as the Saxons’ short-yardage running back during his last three seasons and finished his career with 26 rushing touchdowns.’

‘One player can make that kind of difference to a defense, and the Bills haven’t had a player like “Super” Mario since Bruce Smith helped lead the Bills to four straight Super Bowls. That’s not to say Williams is, or will be, Smith, but his presence will certainly make everybody around him better.’