Archives for May 15, 2015

'“You have to be on the field to be productive,” new Bills coach Rex Ryan said. “If you’re not on the field, it’s hard to knock a guy for not being productive.”'

'Williams, a fifth-round selection from Florida State, comes with some off-the-field concerns and adds to an already crowded running back depth chart. A former safety, Williams saw his playing time decrease during his final season at Florida State, but the Bills are excited about the value he could bring to special teams.'

'While Stephon Gilmore battled injuries early in his career as a top 10 pick, he has developed into a legitimate No. 1 cornerback in the NFL. Meanwhile, Courtney Upshaw was a second-round pick of the Ravens back in 2012 and has recorded just one sack in three NFL seasons. The Bills were better off without Kiper again.'

'The Bills will have a three-man quarterback competition between Matt Cassel, EJ Manuel and Tyrod Taylor. Not only will the winner of the competition be the Bills' opening week starter in 2015, but the player who comes out on bottom could end up getting cut. Most teams keep just two quarterbacks on the active roster, so the team may not have room for Cassel, Manuel and Taylor. Buffalo's front office will have an interesting decision to make at the end of training camp.'

'"Without Hunter's Hope and Jim Kelly, there would be no newborn screening," said Maria Kefalas, a sociology professor at St. Joseph's University whose charity, the Calliope Joy Foundation, funds research and programs to help children with leukodystrophy. "Jim set all these events in motiion."'

'Miller was chosen 81st overall and has a chance to start at guard this season for the Bills. The 6-foot-2, 312-pound from Louisville started 47 of 48 games with the Cardinals.'

'Williams finished ninth in Florida State history with 22 rushing touchdowns.'

'The Bills now have seven players with the last name "Williams" on their roster.'

'Second-round choice Ronald Darby (CB, FSU) and sixth-round choice Tony Steward (LB, Clemson) are the only two remaining draft picks yet to sign their deals.'

'“It’s an amazing feeling to be able to sign my contract and officially become a Buffalo Bill,” Miller told Buffalobills.com. “It’s great I get to put this behind me and focus on football and learning the plays.”'

'“I’m not afraid of it and I’m going to be behind some great guys, some guys who’ve proven themselves and great backs. Having the challenge and going up there is going to be great and learning from those guys.”'

'Watching from the sidelines, it’s possible to make some initial observations on the rookie class as well. Here are the top three rookies with a chance to impact the Bills in 2015, and three other rookies to keep an eye on as the team moves through the offseason.'

'“Easley is a special teams phenom,” said Rex Ryan. “He’s as good as it gets on special teams.”'