Archives for July 10, 2014

‘But what about Brown? In an ideal world, Brown wouldn’t be relied upon too much because Spiller would bounce back. The Bills would, however, like to see enough out of Brown that they don’t feel completely out to dry if Spiller and Jackson aren’t on the roster in 2015.’

‘But before he could begin to acknowledge all of the people who have helped him and encouraged him over the last year, he began to fight back tears. Kelly paused for a few seconds to collect himself as the gym at Sweet Home High School fell silent. He didn’t need to say a word before the gym erupted in applause again.’

‘Essentially on a one-year pact to stay on his best behavior and follow team protocol, the Bills can walk away from Williams if he doesn’t hold up that end of the bargain or if he fails to make the type of impact they believe he can. The role for Williams still must be defined, but on paper he figures to come in on three wdie receiver sets as one of the outside players, allowing either Sammy Watkins or Robert Woods to be able to play the slot. If he can provide a red zone presence it will go miles for EJ Manuel’s progress. But since his role will likely be limited to that barring an injury, he falls a bit shorter than others on the list despite his raw skills and prior success.’

‘Spikes signed only a one-year contract with the team, and it screams as a “prove it” deal after the drama that unfolded in New England at the end of the 2013 season. The linebacker will likely be fully motivated to prove himself playing only on a one-year pact, and can provide the stability against the run when he’s in there. However, the Bills should not attempt to use him too much even though Kiko Alonso is likely lost for the season. Spikes is very good against the run, but his game is not as a normal three-down linebacker. The expectation is that he’ll be on the sidelines on those obvious passing downs.’

‘Jimmy Gaines, Darrin Kitchens, Nathan Williams – The hometown Gaines will likely be the third-string strongside linebacker backing up both Rivers and Johnson. Kitchens is an undersized player that likely slots in on the weakside, meanwhile Williams will likely be the third-team middle linebacker. To have any shot, the trio will have to really stand out on special teams. Among the three, Gaines probably has the best chance (although remote) to stick, while Kitchens has the biggest mountain to climb.’

‘Since moving to the picturesque campus of St. John Fisher College in Pittsford, NY in 2000, Bills training camp has been widely regarded as one of the best in the NFL for both players and fans.’