‘Though defensive coordinators might still label it as such, the nickel corner position is no longer a subpackage role in the NFL. With the proliferation of spread formations and wide open passing offenses, a team’s third cornerback often finds himself on the field for 60 to 65 percent of the defensive snaps in a game. Having a capable slot defender or two is critical to a team’s pass defense. Fortunately the Bills have more than their share of candidates to fill the position. The question is which cornerback will win the job coming out of training camp?’
Archives for July 1, 2012
NFL to ease policy on blackouts, report says
‘With roughly 73,000 seats at Ralph Wilson Stadium, that could mean as many as 10,000 unsold tickets for the Bills, said Sabuda, who is also president of Buffalo Fan Alliance, a community initiative designed to protect the future of pro sports in Buffalo.’
Kids swarm the field for Edwards’ football camp
‘”I’m excited,” Edwards said. “You can definitely feel the excitement, even around the city of Buffalo and the fans. It’s probably like nothing they’ve felt in Buffalo for a while. We finally feel like we’ve got some of the pieces that we need to go out and have a great season and make a playoff run. That’s definitely what’s exciting.”‘
NFL players join Chaney grad Brad Smith at annual youth camp
‘Used sparingly in his first season with Buffalo, Smith has enjoyed his time with the Bills and is under contract with the club for three more years. “[Playing time] will come as we get to know each other better,” Smith said. “Anytime I’m playing football I enjoy it. I’m grateful for the opportunity to play this game.”‘
Smith’s annual camp gives back to Youngstown’s area boys, girls
‘”It should be good, not only the guys we have but just more continuity going on with the guys we already have,” he said. “Just time to practice and actually have OTAs and minicamps and work together, as opposed to last season with the lockout.”‘
Easley, ex-teammates forget obstacles when on field
‘Meanwhile, Easley, who turns 25 next November, patiently waits for his. At the time of the diagnosis, he was unsure if the heart condition would end his football career. It took three months for him to get clearance from doctors. Rather than sulk or look for sympathy, he took part in team meetings. “A lot of guys, when they get hurt, they want to go home and do their own thing,” says Bills receiver David Nelson. “Marcus was around, always trying to learn, always asking questions, trying to get better.”‘