Archives for January 2014

‘”Obviously Nathaniel Hackett can do it all,” Marrone told Buffalobills.com Monday. “I think it was very difficult for him this year with three quarterbacks that we had to get ready with Kevin Kolb getting injured. I think that was very difficult.”‘

‘Dareus finished the season with a career-high 71 tackles and a career-high 7.5 sacks and ranked as one of just five players in the NFL to finish with over 70 tackles and 7.0 sacks. The third-year defensive tackle will join fellow linemates Kyle and Mario Williams, who are each making their third Pro Bowl appearance.’

‘The Browns might conduct second interviews with defensive coordinators Mike Pettine of the Bills and Dan Quinn of Seahawks depending on how their search plays out over the few days.’

‘”The Bills players and Jim, they really seemed to enjoy the day,” Krueger said. “They were into it as much as I was.”‘

‘”I think I’ve gotten better, but I think I still have room for improvement, things I can work on this offseason, to take my game to the next level,” Glenn said. “I’ve worked on just being a more efficient player. Footwork, handwork, blocking more efficiently, being more consistent.”‘

‘He has also been outspoken in favor of a number of Republican candidates over the years, including Cuomo’s 2010 opponent Carl Paladino. Thomas recorded a television advertisement for Paladino, defending the Buffalo businessman against charges of racism.’

‘”I am honored that Governor Cuomo has appointed me to the Tourism Advisory Council,” Thomas said. “I know how important it is to the governor that Buffalo and western New York receive the proper representation and promotion. I look forward to making that happen.”‘

‘”I don’t think I’ve shown my best,” Barden said. “Anybody who’s seen me play consistently would agree that the more opportunities I get, the more I show, and I’m confident, and that has always been the case. I’ve shown plenty over my career, particularly in college. A lot of that has yet to be tapped into. I take responsibility for my career thus far. That just means I’m excited to have the opportunity to show those things.”‘

‘As recently as 2001, Pettine Jr. was the 35-year-old high school coach of the North Penn Knights, near Philadelphia. Pettine, currently Buffalo’s defensive coordinator, made the jump from high school head coach to NFL in seven years.’

‘In making the announcement Friday, Cuomo says he was recommending that the NFL Hall of Fame member fill the position of vice chairman. The governor said the retired football star has shown a commitment to the state both on and off the field.’

‘”When you’re talking about putting the offense down on paper and explaining it, Frank knew everything,” former special teams ace and wide receiver Steve Tasker said. “Jim was the player, and Frank was the thinker. That’s the way their relationship worked. Frank knew how to play, too, don’t get me wrong. He was an invaluable asset for Jim, and Jim would tell you the same thing.”‘

‘”From the time I met him, it seemed like his progression was that, sooner or later, he’d be at where he is right now,” Reed said Wednesday night in a phone interview from Carson. “Jim (Kelly) was our quarterback, but Frank was probably just as smart, if not smarter, about the offense we were in.”‘

‘Jefferson was released with two other players on Oct. 21 due to violating team rules. Running back Cierre Wood and defensive end Sam Montgomery were the other two players that were waived.’

‘In announcing the move Thursday, the Bills didn’t specify what Hafley’s responsibilities would be. The Bills have one opening on their defensive staff after inside linebackers coach Chuck Driesbach was fired on Monday.’

‘Hafley will enter his third season in the NFL coaching ranks in 2014 after spending the previous two years with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, including 2013 as the team’s safeties coach.’