MasterStrategist

A little more actually. Difficult to know who/what they tried to do at MLB during FA and draft. And too early to know what happens at MLB for us...Dodson is who he is, but Bernard might give us something (even if it's subpackage). I take Floyd all day, easier to scheme around a MLB, go dime/subpackage looks...prefer the pass rusher

I guess predicting a player to be cut Or play a meaningless role is one way of setting expectations. My realistic expectations for Shakir: 500-600 yards, 3 Tds. That seems way different than those posters, you quoted. I'd expect the same for Kincaid, with more TDs. Harty is a wild card to me, if he's healthy we have 6 guys that could go over 500 yards: Diggs, Davis, Shakir, Kincaid, Knox, and Harty

Ha, I'm more a numbers guy than you trust me on that (you can DM me if you're that interested). Again, 20 targets...way too few to pass judgment. Being noted for drops, by who? Did you see them? You believe everyone's twitter reporting? Because just last night you said we shouldn't believe the Gabe Davis hype being reported by those same ppl. If you have your mind made up on 21 targets and some random twitter reports, that's a you problem. EDIT: this is from just after the draft, but some Beane comments on Shakir and "1" sample video in there. If we want to rip on his 1 drop, let's see his great catch too...that was clutch. Beane has spoken highly about Shakir, unprovoked, on several occasions. Unless he has a horrible preseason, he's going to be a key player on offense. Likely splitting time in the slot. https://www.google.com/amp/s/heavy.com/sports/buffalo-bills/bills-brandon-beane-khalil-shakir-bigger-role/amp/

My comment was focused on people already being done with him, because of some twitter reports on drops. Yes, he had drops in college...some were bad (like Miami game), some bc he has short arms. But he has strong/50-50 type hands and a skill set we lack with RAC. We will see what happens, but I think Shakir actually does create plays. He's good RAC, catching in traffic, and creating separation in routes. He struggled against reading zones and nuances of being a rookie. I have higher expectations for Dalton, and he's a better player than Shakir. But Shakir will likely turn out to be our primary slot guy, when Kincaid isn't out there, and used in a variety of ways.

Bring a numbers guy, you should definitely understand that 20 targets isn't credible/far too few to pass judgment on a rookie. 1 fluke pass/drop, and there you go. His Dolphins drop LY was a momentum killer and inexcusable at the time, but not his MO. Agree a 10% drop rate isn't good at all, but if Shakir only sees 20 targets this year then that clearly means Kincaid/Harty/Sherfield are getting the targets...and nobody will be critiquing Shakirs 20, but the others who are getting looks. Shakir MO has always been solid to great hands. At Boise St, it was always a plus and his RAC ability. He also showed well in camp LY, and earlier this May. Beane has been praising him. I think it's just way too early to pass judgment. It's overreacting when someone says they're done with a player, especially someone coming into Year 2 who only had 20 targets....and especially when they're making that judgment on twitter reports (which have been inconsistent). Perhaps the same conclusion will be reached at a later point, but not triggered based on inconsistent twitter reports

MLB is definitely worse on paper. But, I'm gonna wait until we see what McDermott changes schemstically/subpackages, aggressive playcalls, etc. No way they will straight up ask Dodson or Bernard to do what Tremaine did. There's going to be changes. I think they can "piece" together a good MLB role, by using various subpackages (ie: Dime with Rapp, or Bernard who is a good Blitzer). Tremaine took away alot of real estate, but had weaknesses too: quicker Rbs/matched up coverages, poor Blitzer, didn't generate enough turnovers. His role can be replaced but will take more creativity from Sean and defensive coaches. On offense, if our pick ups perform to their potential, we are MUCH better at IOL and slot WR. Again on coaching, what is Dorsey going to adjust - to improve short area passing/middle of field, better redzone efficiency, etc. On S/T, Hines was a top 5 returner. Kickoffs I'm less concerned, with rule change, but on punts can Harty be dependable, or Shakir? We have very good backup options, just not Hines level.

Exactly why I don't put alot of stock into it yet. There's a few reports, ie: ASTRO, others that I trust. Then everyone else, I'm not sure they're even paying attention or know what to look for. Personal experience (just 1 day at camp): Cook, Gabe and Shakir all looked improved/noticeably quicker. Cook has a presence that he felt more comfortable/confident in his role on offense it's great to see the reports, just find it funny when some posters latch on to these and use it as justification for Player XYZ to be cut/traded, etc. Wait to preseason starts, or if you're at camp, and use your own eyes to judge

Good breakdown. My thoughts... 1.Starting MLB is really going to boil down to Dodson vs Bernard. Loser of that is a primary backup, but both these guys are making the team 2. I don't think Spector is a serious candidate for the starting MLB role. He needs to at least be "close" to Kleins level on S/T AND some growth at playing MLB, OR straight up outperform Klein on S/T 3. Klein is the perfect/ideal P/S guy for us.. but he makes this team if either: see above about Spector OR Dorian looks completely lost at WLB (in which case, I think they try to sneak Spector back to the P/S) My guess: we keep 6, Klein to the P/S, and Dodson starts the year at MLB. I'm expecting more subpackages for MLB, so Dodson might only get 70% of snaps per game

I'm not so certain Sherfield has overtaken Shakir. Of course Harty and Sherfield are getting reps, but they're moving all these around...inside at the slot and outside. Shakir has gotten most of the slot reps, when Kincaid isn't out there with Knox. Dorsey is mixing and matching a lot of personell groupings right now, seeing what is looking best and which players are right for those formations. I'd be 100% shocked if Beane moved Shakir. He's valuable alone as a return man, and he's got 3 cost controlled seasons remaining. He's a RAC player, has very good hands (despite what some might say, or his 1 drop the other day), and a willing blocker. I'd also guess Shorter locks down the 6th spot. He's got a lot of tools to refine, but has immediate S/T value, big target/deep ball speed. They aren't giving up on another young WR quickly, especially after Hodgins (despite his injuries, etc).

Yes the "rest" of the WRs, not JuJu. That's a you problem for not understanding. Again, the man just got his market value shown to him....$9m AAV. Is that Wr1 money? You keep avoiding that question, I wonder why? Carry on... brick walls give more than you

It's where they are being targeted...🤔 Not difficult to understand. You are reverting to your typical behavior now...lol, must be right or throw insults. You're a real treat 😋 Let's think really hard on this: 1. Player 1 Avg air target is less than 6 yard 2. Player 2 is greater than 12 yards Wonder whp is who? Wonder if there's any correlation to throwing a short pass, and completing it, vs throwing deep and incompeltions (overthrown, lower % of completion). Gabe avg yards per attempt = 9.0 JuJu= 9.2 Gabes TDs=7 JuJu=3 Bills offense needs a JuJu type for the slot, at 60 targets per year. But he's not a WR1, anymore than Gabe is a #1 WR...different roles in offense. Gabe is actually better in his role than JuJus, I'd contest. Proof will be in the contract Gabe either gets before season starts OR next offseason. Gabe will be paid more than $9m AAV, be fun if we could wager 😁

I don't think it's the same, Kumerow was a bottom roster/ST guy. Harty and Sherfield actually offer some offensive potential, especially Harty if hes healthy....but I know you're not a believer yet. It's OK. Nobody knows yet, but I'm hoping you're wrong

Stating the obvious, but alot of fans have problems understanding that players can "improve". Year 1 to Year 2, Year 2 to 3, etc. It's not linear growth, and past comparisons or LYs production gets stuck in their minds. Failing to see that most all NFL teams are relying/going through the same thing...at various positions. Shakir looked good, from what I saw and noted. He and Cook were 2 of the most improved players on offense. Defensively, Settle looks alot quicker. From how they are mixing up looks on DL, Groot as the 3T and Floyd at DE during obvious passing downs will cause alot of teams headaches. Especially when Von returns on the other side

Oh wow, same thing I said the other day...(that I witnessed at camp too)...that @BADOLBILZjumped all over. Its clear to at least a few that Gabe is looking improved...have some hope, its only going to help we have what appears to be a reliable middle of the field target (Kincaid) and better IOL

Dude you honestly want to compare passer rating, with a SLOT wr versus a DOWNFIELD wr. You are now cherry picking stats. Bottom line, go argue JuJu is a "WR1" until you're blue in the face...I don't care. But he's no longer a prolific WR, even being as young/experienced as he is....he was ONLY able to attract a very modest 3 yr 26M deal this offseason. Again, if there was a single GM in the NFL that views JuJu as a Wr1, there would have been a much higher contract offered / JuJu wouldn't have accepted such a low-ball #. I don't care about JuJu, I care about the point you're trying to make (unsuccessfully)...that we NEED two WR1 (or passing weapons) to be on-par with past SB teams. Those teams weren't about 1 factor, they also had: 1. Great or Very good OL and at least 1 elite def line player 2. 3 consistent WR/TE passing targets 3. Defenses that could apply pressure on opposing QBs Not simple correlation, like you're trying to point out. Either way, stay with your story. I'll stick with mine...which has been about improving IOL and finding a consistent slot option (doesn't need to be a #2 target eater in our offense). Teams tried to bring pressure/cover 1 or cover 0 looks, and/or funneled coverage to make Josh go 1-1 to middle of the field/slot targets. We had absolutely NOBODY in that role, who could be a reliable target for Josh. Knox was also forced to be kept in on protection too often, because our OL struggled or due to the blitz looks. Only time we had success was moving Diggs inside. Dont want to believe me, how about go listen to Beane's post season/offseason pressures. Top that with Beanes actions/top investments: 1. 2 slot WRs: Harty and Sherfield 2. 1st round pick: SLOT 3. IOL additions It was clear as day to anyone who understands what this offense wants to emphasize. It's mission critical to have a capable player in the slot. Beane failed LY, he thought he was getting solid guy in Crowder (but he got hurt). This year, he not only invested FA $s but also our top draft pick. If WR2 was so important to him, he would have found a way to get Dhop or someone else. Nobody thought we'd land Von last offseason, but that was 2021's biggest weakness (pressuring and ultimately sacking the QB).. so Beane focused on it.

Bernard, at least stature-wise, reminds me of TJ Edwards. Size isn't everything, *insert joke here*, but Bernard's instincts, quickness to read/react and ability to use his hands to shed blocks...was a big plus from Baylor scouts. He fits the athletic measurables, undersized guys like him usually take a year or so of NFL training, to see any potential. I don't think LY was a good indicator at all, and still think Dodson has the leg up. Worse case, we find a sub package role or he's a S/T replacement for Big Red

I know what he was saying....you must have missed my point and what other reporters have noticed about Gabe. It's the opposite of what you're saying ... Gabe actually is standing out and looks quicker/lighter/improved. Yes it's TC but at least acknowledge more than 1 report....plenty of reports out there saying what I just stated (and noticed in person at practice)

Yeah and Jujus 9.2 yards per target VS Gabe at 9.0 Juju: 101 targets and 933 yards and 3 Tds Gabe: 93 targets and 836 yards and 7 Tds Adjust Gabes stats, based on 101 targets and we get 909 yards. Obviously these guys play different roles in their offense, but JuJu was targeted on short/quick passes (ie a slot role). He's nowhere near a #1, just a target hog in that offense LY. Yet somehow JuJu finishes #74 in the league with just 3 Tds. Dude isn't a #1 receiver and no where close to it, since his days with Steelers. He also didn't get paid like it by NE... More stats: his last 8 games, including Playoffs. 42 targets, 334 yards, 1 TD. Equates to 89 targets, 709 yards, and 2 Tds across 17 games.. What's my point?: 1. He was not a #1 LY, just bc he got targets. He basically was single coverage every play, and avg 5.5 air yards per reception. Translation - he got a million short passes and had space to operate in that offense. 2. He was getting phased out during the stretch run/played a complimentary role especially in playoffs 3. AAV his new deal, after just putting up his best statistical year in recent time...a whopping $9m. That's gonna be less than Gabe wil get, and basically depicts what JuJu is...a #3/slot role guy. GMs aren't agreeing with your take, otherwise JuJu would have received more on the open market...right?

This could be a post from 2 months ago, and it would still be wild speculation/best guess. Need to wait for the pads to go on. About the only thing you can gage now is ability to put defense in the right calls, positioning/responsibilities, pass coverage drops (which we know we have more small/athletic types), and leadership/command. Ultimately I think the job will be Dodson's. He'll check more boxes, IMO, to handle early downs and 3rd downs. But I wouldn't be surprised, and actually looking forward to seeing, if Coach has more sub-packages this year (ie: Bernard or Dorian, or more dime with Rapp) on obvious passing downs.

Using JuJu is a horrible example, just my opinion. 1. Who cares about his 1400 yard season, years ago. Why just to prove he's talented? 2. Most important...he was practically non-existent part of their offense in the last 6-7 games (including playoffs, where he disappeared) Chiefs were good bc they were "diverse" with their offense, and had multiple guys who were reliable. Your original point about having 2 "top tier" weapons & correlation to SB apprarances, isnt bad. But I'd not bucket last years KC team there (regardless of JuJu season stats). They won games in the playoffs, and SB, by getting all their weapons involved and not letting Pat get sacked in the SB. Your original point, you should also consider #3 target in those offenses too (maybe you have). But they had 3 consistent/reliable guys. To me, having 3 mostly reliable passing weapons is more important. On any given play, Josh likely gets to 3-4 reads before pressure breaks down....especially in our style of offense VS defenses that have given us problems. Counting on Kincaid to play a critical role, but he doesn't need to become our #2 target guy...I think you said this in an earlier post...agree with you that Davis should see his targets come down and we become a more balanced offense (intermediate and downfield passing)

Analyzing catch rate in practice lol...thats a new one. At least the day I was at camp, Gabe had Tre turned around and beat him on back to back 1-1 reps. Although Tre still doesn't look the same to me...just a step behind his all-pro days, hopefully I'm wrong on that. All that to say, I think the biggest observations about Gabe so far: 1. he looks noticably quicker/faster coming out of breaks and 2. leaner build (likely helping with previous), appears to be carrying less weight Hopefully translates to staying healthy/avoiding the recurring ankle injuries. I definitely think he "bulked" too much last offseason. Obviously he's never been a twitchy type receiver, but similar to James Cook...both guys caught my attention for looking faster this year (I'd add Shakir to that list too).

I think looking at outside WRs at this time of camp, is more an indictment on players WR7-Wr13. I could be wrong, but we all knew Shorter was going to be a major WIP, and S/T play right now is less contact/not a great indicator until full pads and contact start. Your last statement is spot on. Improved OL play, hopefully, should allow Knox to get more involved as well. If an NFL team can find 3 consistent weapons in the pass game, they have a great chance to be elite. We're trending that way right now, at least in much better position than LY. Harty and Sherfield are getting moved all around, at least the day I was at camp. Nobody we're looking at off the streets right now, is making this WR room...barring an injury. Perhaps P/S, but I've liked how Coulter looks and Keesawn. Isabella maybe, if he proves to be a good option in the return game.

He's been an average 2, at least, already. Team has lacked a "consistent" 3rd pass catching option, LY specifically. Gabe isn't Stefon. But he's a good boundary receiver in our offense, along with being one of our best blocking receivers. Ask any WR coach and that's an important trait. We need Kincaid, or the 3-headed slot trio to give us more than LY. Not like we were that bad/far off anyhow, we're talking about fine tuning a great offense into an elite group (which need better oline play as well). Seems like we have: 1. A healthy/lighter/slightly quicker Gabe 2. Consistent 3rd option- Kincaid so far 3. Hopefully better IOL and RT play 4. More diverse offense/improved Dprsey through experience I'm optimistic, but it's not like Gabe has to be a #3 target in this offense. We actually just need a consistent slot guy.

Usually they start practice with a "half speed" team offense vs defense. Scripted plays/2 min drill. Seems they had Torrence starting for that segment. Then individual drills, then team session again at full speed (seems Bates started then). Just to help explain, otherwise it would seem Cover1 was contradicting themselves

Parking/Shuttle: I parked at Sutherland, arrived at 8:15. Line was already fairly long, and we got on the 5th or 6th bus. Got to practice by approx 9am Autographs: same boat, my son was hoping too but it's extremely difficult. Ask about "mafia tix" when you bump into ppl working there, there is a special area behind the bleachers (these tix are randomly handed out, from what I was told). Otherwise, lining up along the fences is best chance, sometimes players will stop over (far sideline OR field behind bleachers). VIP area is closest, and best chsnce for autographs, as you said. Bills store: yes, they have 2 stores setup. One right as you enter and second one is along the end zone (right side). Hat options, I didn't look specifically but selection was just OK for everything else. Obviosily much better at 1 Bills Drive store (we actually stopped there on way home) Kids area: yes, they have several games/activities set up. Face paint/tattoo Station, and the Billy Buffalo meet opportunity is cool for kids. Get in line immediately when you arrive for that, best chance for a pic Have fun!