How should the Bills address the QB situation, defend your position

[ddaryl]

Pick up a vet and draft a QB

 

Not much to even defend at this point as there is lots of months to hone in on who we could or should draft and what QB's are really left on the table for FA or even trade

Edited January 11, 2018 by ddaryl

[snafu]

To me, Cousins is overrated and not worth all the money he'd suck up from the cap. He hasn't elevated the Redskins and he will be hated here if he doesn't bring wins.  Better off getting a cheaper FA who's teams have about a .500 career win% and spend the money on upgrading the holes in the roster.  Throwing all that money on Cousins seems like a stupid idea for where this team is right now.

 

 

[BigBuff423]

The issue with defending a position related to the QB, is that it also requires the knowledge of which OC will be present - whether it's Dennison or another OC because that determines exactly which QB would best fit the system and need, to some extent. 

 

However, based on the current information available and as of right now, January 11th at 8:20 a.m., Dennison is the OC and to that end I make the following proposition:

 

1. Trade a 4th round pick to KC for Alex Smith and here's why: Alex has a 2018 Cap salary of $17 million, actually LESS than Taylor's salary and the reports of the $20 million Cap hit are misconstrued based on Dead Cap and previous pay outs, take a look at his salary in Spotrac and it's only for one year, with no dead cap after 2018 and no commitments. Additionally his stats for 2017 were: approx. 4,000 yards, 67% completion rate, with 26:5 TD-INT ratio, had a rating of 104.7 and was sacked 35 times. He is NOT the long term answer, but getting Alex Smith who will be 34 when the season starts is just 4 years older than Kirk Cousins, who bill be 30 next season which bridges me to why NOT Cousins - Cousins had approx. 4,000 yards passing, with a 64.3% completion rate, while throwing 27:13 TD-INT ratio, was sacked 41 times and had a rating of 93.9. But, Cousins will cost approximately $26 million over at least 4 years with all kinds of guarantees and Cap hits if he doesn't work out or his age shows based on hits, making it a roughly $9 million difference just next year and you're committed to a 30 year old QB who on the down slope of his prime.

 

2. Draft your QB of the future - I would wait until 21 and hope Mason Rudolph is there; he has progressed as a 3 year starter by more than 1,200 yards in production from his Sophmore to Senior season, has increased his percentage completion rate by percentage points each season leading to a 65% completion rate as a senior, has gone from 21 to 37 TDs and maintained the same number of INTs, meaning his production has skyrocketed while his mistakes have remained steady. Additionally, he is 6'5", is a Senior, has an NFL arm (despite reports he doesn't - just watch the film), is accurate, relatively poised and has loads of experience. However, if FA plays out with Alex Smith and you're able to get lots of good depth players and a couple good starters by making multiple OTHER trades ala Jerry Hughes, Glenn, etc. then I could also see the Bills trading way up into the top 5 and selling out - IF they were to do that, then I'd say take Rosen since he's got the purest talent, but I would prefer to stay at 21.

 

3. And of course, I'd also like a 4th arm for camp and a lottery ticket, so I'd take Tyler Bray as well, let him and Peterman duke it out for that 3rd position. 

[4merper4mer]

It will be hard to do this without sounding negative, but tbh I just don't think that there are a lot of options that are likely to help the Bills in the short run and I admit I'm not enough of a scout to know what I think of the longer terms prospects.

 

I'll erase Keenum from the equation because I think the Vikes are going to keep him for sure.  They'll also keep one of the other two and I'm guessing it will be Bridgewater because of his age and probable loyalty to the franchise that stuck by him after that horrible injury.  Bradford is a gigantic "no thanks" as he is hurt more than Tim Connelly.  So no Vikes.

 

The next easy elimination to me is trading 400 draft picks and committing 40% of our cap to the most disappointing player in the history of sports.  The Colts might not even do it anyway.  Let some other team try to convince them.

 

I don't like packaging 900 picks to move up to 1 or 2 at all.  Donald literally sucks and Rosen is a question mark that will probably work out but not in 2018.  We're not getting them and the trade scenarios I've seen on here are either unrealistically using "draft value chart" numbers to convince people it could be done or overly eager to give away Ricky Williams type trades.

 

I'm not a fan of moving up for a guy going after the top two because I think that will be costly as well.  In this case, if the Bills did it I would probably trust Beane and McD after the fact.  I don't like Mayfield from what I've seen, but I'm not a scout.  Some of the guys on here that have loved Connor Cook, Talleywhacker, Gabbert and Bortles while thinking Cam Newton and D. Watson stink really like him so I'm scared.  I don't see getting him for a reasonable price.

 

Staying at 21/22 and taking a guy is something I could like but doubt it will do much for us in 2018.

 

Alex Smith sucks and would be a waste of time, bridge or not.

 

I like TT and respect the work he has put in and his effort here but at this point I agree with those who say he has reached the end of the road.

 

That leaves Cousins and one other wild card that probably won't happen.  I was never optimistic on Cousins because even though I don't watch the Skins a lot, I still see him do MANY dumb things after doing some good things.  He will also cost $$$$$ restricting us in other areas, but he won't cost us any draft picks so I would say he is a maybe.

 

I think the wild card is the Giants.  Could we get Manning as a bridge?  Would the cost be cheap enough?  If they keep Manning and draft a QB at 2, could we get Davis Webb and live with a crappy guy like Bradford or Smith for a while knowing we have two lottery tickets with Webb and Peterman?  

 

I don't see many great options.  I'd love it if I thought Peterman could step up but he clearly lacks arm strength to make NFL throws.  Brady increased his arm strength and that's about all I remember of guys doing that.  It's possible that his increased strength may have involved something Peterman is too ethical to do.

 

My choice would be get Manning as cheap as you can and draft a QB like Rudolph if he is there and you like him.  If not, take a flyer on a guy like White or Keane in a later round and see if there is someone there in 2019.  You could try this with McCarron too if you really liked him.  This seems less than likely to happen so my choice would be to reluctantly pay Cousins.  My top avoidances would be Luck and trading everything to move up.   

 

 

 

 

[Hapless Bills Fan]

1 hour ago, 4merper4mer said:

"Sucks" is hard to put into words but if you rewatch Bills or Titans vs. Chiefs, it is easy to understand.  I'm wondering if the Chiefs made any changes in the last few years other than Smith.  

 

I wouldn't say Smith sucks, but there's no question to me that he's not an elite "franchise" QB despite his numbers and the posters here who have asserted (generally without a cogent argument) that he is.  To me, Smith is what Tyrod Taylor might grow into with good consistent coaching for several years and a game plan that helps him grow - he could improve dramatically but he's never going to be Drew Brees or Aaron Rodgers, and he's always going to have that instinct to tuck the ball and scramble instead of standing in to throw - a blessing and a curse.   I can remember back when you would read an article about Alex Smith and if you blanked out the names and gave it to a Bills fan today, they'd say "it's about Taylor, right?"

 

As far as Chiefs changes - mostly for the good, or thought to be neutral.  The Chiefs lost their OC Doug Pederson to be Eagles HC after 2015, but they already had Nagy and Childress on board as assistants.  Statistically, this has been their best year on offense.  They acquired Hill in 2016 and Hunt this year, so they've added weapons.  Where the Chiefs have dropped off this year talent-wise is on defense, largely due to injuries.

 

I will say that right after the game someone (was it the Chin? Cowher?) was highly critical of Andy Reid, saying bluntly "he is not the guy to get you deep into the playoffs".  Of course, once upon a time in the late 90's, early 2000's, that was said of Cowher, if that's who it was.

 

 

 

 

[papazoid]

bills are projected $38 mil under cap next season.....will be $60 mil after cuts.

 

#1- over pay in free agency to get QB

#2- keep all your draft picks and remaining $30 mil to fix other holes.

[NewEraBills]

11 hours ago, JMF2006 said:

Trade for Alex Smith a 3rd should do it.

 

Draft the BQBA at 21 and trade down with 22 to get 2 or 3 more picks if there are any takers. 

 

 

4th and a conditional in the 2020 draft.  I wouldn't give up the 3rd.  That's a good player (draft) in the trenches or in the secondary.  Or even at HB or WR this year.

[Hapless Bills Fan]

1 hour ago, racketmaster said:

Am I missing something here. Don’t the Bills already have something similar to that (Smith) in Taylor.

 

They have something similar to what Smith was 2009-2010 ish (only with less picks and better wheels).  The question is, is Dennison Taylor's Harbaugh and can he take a step to work better in Dennison's system, or not?

13 minutes ago, papazoid said:

bills are projected $38 mil under cap next season.....will be $60 mil after cuts.

 

#1- over pay in free agency to get QB

#2- keep all your draft picks and remaining $30 mil to fix other holes.

 

Who are you cutting to get to $60?

[Harryhood280]

9 hours ago, Rocky Landing said:

What makes you think that Smith will be cheaper than Cousins?

 

Smith is 33, and not that good. If he hadn’t had MVP chatter early in the season I think he’s available for a conditional 3rd or 4th. Today, it will probably take a 2nd and Glenn. Meh. 

 

Cousins is 29, and is good. He’s a Free Agent. He will almost surely sign the richest contract in NFL history. 

[BuffaloHokie13]

1 minute ago, Hapless Bills Fan said:

They have something similar to what Smith was 2009-2010 ish (only with less picks and better wheels).  The question is, is Dennison Taylor's Harbaugh and can he take a step to work better in Dennison's system, or not?

Smith and Taylor's overall production was actually incredibly comparable in both the 2015 and 2016 seasons. Just this year Smith stepped up and Tyrod stepped back.

[MrEpsYtown]

I'm going Alex Smith, and a trade up for Rosen/Darnold. We have tried a lot of different things over the past fifteen years to try and get a QB. The one thing that we haven't tried is a bold trade up for an elite prospect. I think now is the time for that move. I think a trade up with the Giants can definitely happen. What they need more than anything is a offensive line. At 21 and 22 the Giants could grab the best LT available like McGlinchey or Connor Williams and get a guy like Billy Price. That instantly takes them to playoff contenders again and lengthens Eli's career. They could also ask for Cordy Glenn in trade scenarios. The Beane-Gettleman connection certainly helps.  

 

I think, just cap space wise, Kirk Cousins goes to the Browns or the Jets. Teams like us, Jacksonville, Denver, Arizona are simply not able to afford him. The Browns and Jets have enough cap space to sign him without blowing up their entire team. We can't afford Cousins, and even if we could we are in competition with people who have way more money under the cap. Finally, if you sign the 30 year old Cousins, he isn't a bridge, he is your guy, which solidifies the position for 5 years or so. Then we are looking again for a long term answer. 

 

Drew Brees is a huge wildcard, but I don't see him leaving New Orleans. If he did he'd go to a dome like Minnesota or Arizona. 

Here's a guess on how things play out in QB carousel 2018: 

 

Browns - AJ McCarron - I think they get it done this time by trying something different than drafting  a young guy.  They have tried to draft guys and it hasn't worked. Get AJ and use your two top picks to get Barkley and Minkah Fitzpatrick. Or use one of those picks to trade down.  I think they like Kizer as a developmental guy. 

 

Jets - Cousins - They have a ton of Cap and if I'm Cousins I'd pick NY over Cleveland. Bowles has a chance here with his mini contract extension. Drafting a guy high guarantees he won't be the head coach when that guy is ready. I think they go veteran as Cousins can save his career. It makes zero sense for this coach and GM to go with a rookie QB.  

 

Vikings - Keenum - I think they would be crazy to let him walk after this year. I think they should keep Bridgewater, but I think they have to keep Keenum. 

 

Redskins - Bradford - He's a good fit for what Jay Gruden does. I think they draft a guy this year. I'm going Mason Rudolph here. 

 

Broncos  - I think they will make a play for Cousins. They are also a great fit for Alex Smith. KC will not trade him in the division in my opinion. To me the Broncos wind up with Jay Cutler or something like Nick Foles, Josh McCown and draft a young guy. I'm guessing Josh Allen. Seems like what Elway would want.  

 

Cardinals - Can't really say until they hire their coach, but I'm going Teddy Bridgewater. He's 25 years old and a great fit in a dome. This allows you to use your first round pick on something else. 

 

Jags - I think they are our biggest competitor for Alex Smith. I could see them making a play for Josh McCown if the Jets sign Cousins. Bortles should be out and I'm assuming Marrone will want a veteran. I could see them making a play for Bradford as well. 

 

If this scenario plays out, we'd be left with Alex Smith and would just have to get things done in the draft. I do think that Andy Reid gives the Bills a slight discount on an Alex Smith trade. They need to move him because he has a 20 million dollar cap hit. They also clearly want to move on to Mahomes and are looking for an excuse to do so. You just need to offer them something respectable like a 3rd rounder or two. In my opinion, they will not cut him for fear that he will go to the Broncos in their division. The Bills biggest competition would probably be the Jags or Redskins. 

[sjjr]

There are probably 2 potential franchise QBs in this draft  that will go very early and almost impossible for the Bills to get to.  There are a few more that can be drafted later but all will have risks and must be developed in the right situation to have chances.  

 

The Bills can probably look at guys like Cousins, Alex Smith or McCarron in free agency/trade that wouldn't be too expensive.  They all can play winning football supported by a strong running game and good defense.  Most likely would be Alex Smith because he's been successful at not turning the ball and using a short passing game to players with similar skills sets to what the Bills currently have.  He'd also probably come cheapest because the Chiefs probably need to move him and McDermott has a good relationship with Reid it seems.

 

If none of those three are viable then can't rule out keeping Tyrod.  Have to keep developing Peterman and see if there isn't another developmental prospect they could look at in the draft (Mayfield, Rudolph, Linehan). 

 

This draft can be about improving the offensive and defensive lines along with getting depth at RB.  Might also have to look at a new MLB that will lead the D going forward if Brown isn't re-signed.

[papazoid]

13 minutes ago, Hapless Bills Fan said:

 

 

 

Who are you cutting to get to $60?

 

lots of options....

 

Tyrod for starters. he's currently on the books for $18 million 2018. that's not happening. save $15-16 mil by moving on.

 

kelvin Benjamin $8 mil

Richie $6mil

Lo Alexander $3mil

mills, ducasse, DeMarco, holmes, Washington = $5mil

 

(that gets you to $75 mil under the cap)

 

 

If the Bills are committed to moving on — and by all appearances they are — they will try to trade Taylor first before cutting him. He took a pay cut before the start of the season and now has only $1 million guaranteed next year with another $6 million due on the third day of the 2018 league year, which essentially becomes the Bills’ deadline for moving on from him. His salary cap hit for 2018 is $18.08 million.

The Bills would take a $3 million cap hit by cutting him and a $2 million hit by trading him.

http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2018/01/09/bills-have-decisions-to-make-on-rick-dennison-tyrod-taylor/

[BuffaloHokie13]

41 minutes ago, papazoid said:

 

lots of options....

 

Tyrod for starters. he's currently on the books for $18 million 2018. that's not happening. save $15-16 mil by moving on.

 

kelvin Benjamin $8 mil

Richie $6mil

Lo Alexander $3mil

mills, ducasse, DeMarco, holmes, Washington = $5mil

 

(that gets you to $75 mil under the cap)

 

 

If the Bills are committed to moving on — and by all appearances they are — they will try to trade Taylor first before cutting him. He took a pay cut before the start of the season and now has only $1 million guaranteed next year with another $6 million due on the third day of the 2018 league year, which essentially becomes the Bills’ deadline for moving on from him. His salary cap hit for 2018 is $18.08 million.

The Bills would take a $3 million cap hit by cutting him and a $2 million hit by trading him.

http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2018/01/09/bills-have-decisions-to-make-on-rick-dennison-tyrod-taylor/

If Tyrod isn't on the roster, his dead cap hit is roughly $8.7M.  The most we can save there is $10M and that's if we trade him. Cutting him save closer to $9.5M.

[Hapless Bills Fan]

52 minutes ago, papazoid said:

 

lots of options....

Tyrod for starters. he's currently on the books for $18 million 2018. that's not happening. save $15-16 mil by moving on.

 

kelvin Benjamin $8 mil

Richie $6mil

Lo Alexander $3mil

mills, ducasse, DeMarco, holmes, Washington = $5mil

 

(that gets you to $75 mil under the cap)

 

 

If the Bills are committed to moving on — and by all appearances they are — they will try to trade Taylor first before cutting him. He took a pay cut before the start of the season and now has only $1 million guaranteed next year with another $6 million due on the third day of the 2018 league year, which essentially becomes the Bills’ deadline for moving on from him. His salary cap hit for 2018 is $18.08 million.

The Bills would take a $3 million cap hit by cutting him and a $2 million hit by trading him.

http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2018/01/09/bills-have-decisions-to-make-on-rick-dennison-tyrod-taylor/

 

Pap, I think you may be doing your math a bit wrong. 

Take Tyrod:  He's got a cap figure of $18.3M this year.  You subtract his dead cap of $8.64M to get the savings if he's cut of $9.6M.  So $10M this year, not $15-16M.  Similar down the line - cutting Cog saves $5M not $6M.  Cutting Holmes saves you $.65M once dead cap is subtracted.  Etc etc.  Overthecap is easier to work with than Spotrac for this, but it seems to be non-responsive a lot these days (probably just for that reason, lots of fans doing cap math).

 

You can cut players like Mills, Alexander, Ducasse, and Washington, but they're none of them very costly players, not much more than vet minimum.  You can't replace them all with draftees, so the cost of replacing them is very likely close to a wash on the $3.8M you actually save.

 

Cutting Benjamin after just trading a draft pick for him would be a major waste, especially as if healthy, he's the best WR we've got at a position that needs major upgrades.  You'll spend as much or more to replace him, and you won't get the pick returned.

 

Bottom line, cutting a few high-priced players like Taylor, Hughes, and Cog may get you up to $50M cap, but $60M is not too likely

 

 

[CuddyDark]

Draft a Rookie, 1st round. Keep Peterman at #2. Sign a vet or keep TT until rookie is ready.

[Over 29 years of fanhood]

Here is my manifesto.  The goal is risk management and fiscal responsibility. 

 

1) Attempt to re negotiate a deal with Tyrod that retains him as a safety net but avoids a major cap hit if they are able to immediately upgrade by season opener (I’m not counting whoever they draft). If not he s cut

 

2) trade for or pick up in free agency a veteran QB who has potential but was behind an entrenched starter. (There is another Jimmy G somewhere out there) AJ mcc, Keenum, etc... 

 

3) draft a legimate prospect to groom prioritizing quick release, ability to process pre snap reads and burning competitive desire.... that maybe lost draft status because of a bad college program or other. This should be in the 10th overall to 40th overall range 

 

4) do not chase a topped out high priced free agent like Alex and DO not under any circumstances chase overpriced underperforming potential FA like cousins, who will mire the franchise in mediocrity and cap trouble for seasons to come. 

[WhitewalkerInPhilly]

I think I've been pretty consistent. I am not on board with picking up an mediocre schlub when we already have Tyrod.

 

I have a pipe dream of waving our two firsts this year and our first next year in Irsay's face for Luck, but I doubt that will happen. Instead, I expect things will follow this path:

 

A) Tyrod stays on contract through opening FA (We don't waste picks and money on another bridge guy)

B) The Bills scour the rookie QB class this offseason (I think this is inevitable. You should always do this)

C) On draft day, the Bills pick who they think is the best long term starter, likely trading multiple picks to move up in the 1st. The words "Day One ready" do not need to apply (We have a current starter under contract. Not one without problems, but there is no sense in rushing a product you know is not ready)

D) Evaluate the rookie during OTA's. If he absolutely blows you away, cut Tyrod post June 1st to help with the cap. If not, proceed to E

E) Training Camp: Make it a true open competition. If our rookie wins, great, cut Tyrod, pick up a cheap vet backup. From what I hear from half the posters here, a wet dish rag can beat out Tyrod  If he can't win the spot, Tyrod opens this year.

F) Evaluate during the season. If the rookie shows he is ready or Tyrod has a huge skid, bench Taylor and start the rookie

G) In 2019 Tyrod's contract is done either way. You have a rookie who is either a bust and we redraft, or we have an heir apparent.

H) Trust the Process.

[frostbitmic]

1. Make Jimmy Garoppolo an offer he can't refuse. I believe he's a free agent.

2. Tradea 2nd and what we got for Dareus to the Chiefs for Alex Smith. Draft Baker Mayfield at 22.

3. If #1 and #2 don't work out then sign Bradford for two years without over paying and draft Baker Mayfield. Have one Okie QB teaching the ropes to another Okie QB.

4. Draft a QB in the first and let him Peterman and any veteran QB fight it out in preseason.

[section122]

Draft a guy in the first.

 

Draft a later round guy and have him compete with Peterman for the 3rd string/developmental spot. (I have no doubt Peterman would make it to the ps if they cut him in preseason potentially allowing 4 qbs on the roster).  

 

Keep Tyrod until that first round pick beats him out.  It might be in training camp, it might be a few weeks into the season, it might be 2019.  

 

My defense:  There is no reason to not try and improve the qb position.  There is also no reason to make the team worse at qb.  So Tyrod has proven he can win behind center and the team can continue to be competitive until the rookie is ready to take over the position.  This seems like a win win for the team.  If the lights come on for Tyrod (yes a very longshot) great, if not the Bills have an actual alternative (not a 5th round hope and prayer).  After next year Tyrod can find a new team, the Bills will have no dead money from him, and hopefully be set with their franchise guy for the next 10-15 years!  Piece of cake!

1 minute ago, WhitewalkerInPhilly said:

I think I've been pretty consistent. I am not on board with picking up an mediocre schlub when we already have Tyrod.

 

I have a pipe dream of waving our two firsts this year and our first next year in Irsay's face for Luck, but I doubt that will happen. Instead, I expect things will follow this path:

 

A) Tyrod stays on contract through opening FA (We don't waste picks and money on another bridge guy)

B) The Bills scour the rookie QB class this offseason (I think this is inevitable. You should always do this)

C) On draft day, the Bills pick who they think is the best long term starter, likely trading multiple picks to move up in the 1st. The words "Day One ready" do not need to apply (We have a current starter under contract. Not one without problems, but there is no sense in rushing a product you know is not ready)

D) Evaluate the rookie during OTA's. If he absolutely blows you away, cut Tyrod post June 1st to help with the cap. If not, proceed to E

E) Training Camp: Make it a true open competition. If our rookie wins, great, cut Tyrod, pick up a cheap vet backup. From what I hear from half the posters here, a wet dish rag can beat out Tyrod  If he can't win the spot, Tyrod opens this year.

F) Evaluate during the season. If the rookie shows he is ready or Tyrod has a huge skid, bench Taylor and start the rookie

G) In 2019 Tyrod's contract is done either way. You have a rookie who is either a bust and we redraft, or we have an heir apparent.

H) Trust the Process.

 

You could have saved me a lot of typing if you had posted 5 minutes earlier!!!  This plan is excellent!!! 

[Mat68]

2 hours ago, snafu said:

To me, Cousins is overrated and not worth all the money he'd suck up from the cap. He hasn't elevated the Redskins and he will be hated here if he doesn't bring wins.  Better off getting a cheaper FA who's teams have about a .500 career win% and spend the money on upgrading the holes in the roster.  Throwing all that money on Cousins seems like a stupid idea for where this team is right now.

 

 

You are paying him all the money and he hasnt really won anything in the NFL.  Matthew Stafford and Carr will be bench marks but I would argue both those guys have way more potential.  Cousins to me is who he is.  He is kind of an enigma.  Why wouldn't Washington commit long term?  It would have cost them mush less money against the cap?  Keenum reminds me an awful lot like Fitzpatrick.  Those are both legitmate FA that will be expensive.  Imo I would put money into the defense front 7 and make a move to the top 3 for a Qb.

[Royale with Cheese]

I think we should trade for Carson Wentz.  Anyone agree?

6 minutes ago, frostbitmic said:

1. Make Jimmy Garoppolo an offer he can't refuse. I believe he's a free agent.

2. Tradea 2nd and what we got for Dareus to the Chiefs for Alex Smith. Draft Baker Mayfield at 22.

3. If #1 and #2 don't work out then sign Bradford for two years without over paying and draft Baker Mayfield. Have one Okie QB teaching the ropes to another Okie QB.

4. Draft a QB in the first and let him Peterman and any veteran QB fight it out in preseason.

 

San Fran is keeping Garoppolo for a long time.

[Mrbojanglezs]

I think we should make a push for Kirk Cousins then we will have the position solved and we can use or first 4 picks in the first 2 rounds to fill in the roster and be ready to contend in a year or two.

 

At 21/22 we will be out of reach of the top QB talent.

[xRUSHx]

2 hours ago, MrEpsYtown said:

I'm going Alex Smith, and a trade up for Rosen/Darnold. We have tried a lot of different things over the past fifteen years to try and get a QB. The one thing that we haven't tried is a bold trade up for an elite prospect. I think now is the time for that move. I think a trade up with the Giants can definitely happen. What they need more than anything is a offensive line. At 21 and 22 the Giants could grab the best LT available like McGlinchey or Connor Williams and get a guy like Billy Price. That instantly takes them to playoff contenders again and lengthens Eli's career. They could also ask for Cordy Glenn in trade scenarios. The Beane-Gettleman connection certainly helps.  

 

I think, just cap space wise, Kirk Cousins goes to the Browns or the Jets. Teams like us, Jacksonville, Denver, Arizona are simply not able to afford him. The Browns and Jets have enough cap space to sign him without blowing up their entire team. We can't afford Cousins, and even if we could we are in competition with people who have way more money under the cap. Finally, if you sign the 30 year old Cousins, he isn't a bridge, he is your guy, which solidifies the position for 5 years or so. Then we are looking again for a long term answer. 

 

Drew Brees is a huge wildcard, but I don't see him leaving New Orleans. If he did he'd go to a dome like Minnesota or Arizona. 

Here's a guess on how things play out in QB carousel 2018: 

 

Browns - AJ McCarron - I think they get it done this time by trying something different than drafting  a young guy.  They have tried to draft guys and it hasn't worked. Get AJ and use your two top picks to get Barkley and Minkah Fitzpatrick. Or use one of those picks to trade down.  I think they like Kizer as a developmental guy. 

 

Jets - Cousins - They have a ton of Cap and if I'm Cousins I'd pick NY over Cleveland. Bowles has a chance here with his mini contract extension. Drafting a guy high guarantees he won't be the head coach when that guy is ready. I think they go veteran as Cousins can save his career. It makes zero sense for this coach and GM to go with a rookie QB.  

 

Vikings - Keenum - I think they would be crazy to let him walk after this year. I think they should keep Bridgewater, but I think they have to keep Keenum. 

 

Redskins - Bradford - He's a good fit for what Jay Gruden does. I think they draft a guy this year. I'm going Mason Rudolph here. 

 

Broncos  - I think they will make a play for Cousins. They are also a great fit for Alex Smith. KC will not trade him in the division in my opinion. To me the Broncos wind up with Jay Cutler or something like Nick Foles, Josh McCown and draft a young guy. I'm guessing Josh Allen. Seems like what Elway would want.  

 

Cardinals - Can't really say until they hire their coach, but I'm going Teddy Bridgewater. He's 25 years old and a great fit in a dome. This allows you to use your first round pick on something else. 

 

Jags - I think they are our biggest competitor for Alex Smith. I could see them making a play for Josh McCown if the Jets sign Cousins. Bortles should be out and I'm assuming Marrone will want a veteran. I could see them making a play for Bradford as well. 

 

If this scenario plays out, we'd be left with Alex Smith and would just have to get things done in the draft. I do think that Andy Reid gives the Bills a slight discount on an Alex Smith trade. They need to move him because he has a 20 million dollar cap hit. They also clearly want to move on to Mahomes and are looking for an excuse to do so. You just need to offer them something respectable like a 3rd rounder or two. In my opinion, they will not cut him for fear that he will go to the Broncos in their division. The Bills biggest competition would probably be the Jags or Redskins. 

I seen a report the other day that Denver was eyeing up Rudolph and could move back a few slots then grab him before Buffalos pick.

[frostbitmic]

12 minutes ago, Royale with Cheese said:

I think we should trade for Carson Wentz.  Anyone agree?

 

San Fran is keeping Garoppolo for a long time.

The Eagles aren't trading Wentz.

 

Garoppolo is a free agent and his cost would likely be in the Cousins ball park.

[Royale with Cheese]

Just now, frostbitmic said:

The Eagles aren't trading Wentz.

 

Garoppolo is a free agent and his cost would likely be in the Cousins ball park.

 

My Wentz comment was pure sarcasm.

 

49ers have first crack at Jimmy and they're not going to let him go.

http://www.49ers.com/news/article-2/John-Lynch-We-Want-Jimmy-Garoppolo-to-Be-a-Niner-for-a-Long-Long-Time/3e137ea5-8777-42fb-9d50-eae0dd84deae

 

[Call_Of_Ktulu]

AJ Mcarron as the Bridge with the possibility of being the guy. I could see McCarron passing for 3,800 26 TD's and 12 INT's.

 

I like Baker Mayfield and if he drops past 12 I think we make a move to trade up and get him. He would learn behind McCarron for a few years and then we keep the better QB and trade the other for draft picks. 

 

Peterman is a wild card but I like that he isn't afraid to make passes into tight coverage and let his offensive playmakers make plays. It's hard to get a read on Peterman with the crazy circumstances he's had to play in. I wish we could've seen him play against the Colts in somewhat normal football conditions. Either way he will be competing with AJ McCarron and Mayfield for the right to be the starter. 

 

Having these 3 QB's on the roster would make me feel excited about the direction of the team and allow us to take a injury at the position and still be competitive.

 

 

[jrober38]

With a free agent and an early draft pick. 

 

The rest of the team is ready to win now if we can upgrade our passing game. 

[jr1]

can we stop pretending Jimmy is realistic? They'll use the franchise tag at the very least 

[jrober38]

18 minutes ago, frostbitmic said:

The Eagles aren't trading Wentz.

 

Garoppolo is a free agent and his cost would likely be in the Cousins ball park.

 

The 49ers are going to use the franchise tag on him.

They didn't just trade a 2nd round pick to not keep him around long term. 

 

There is a 0% chance we add Jimmy G. 

Edited January 11, 2018 by jrober38

[Batman1876]

7 minutes ago, Call_Of_Ktulu said:

AJ Mcarron as the Bridge with the possibility of being the guy. I could see McCarron passing for 3,800 26 TD's and 12 INT's.

 

I like Baker Mayfield and if he drops past 12 I think we make a move to trade up and get him. He would learn behind McCarron for a few years and then we keep the better QB and trade the other for draft picks. 

 

Peterman is a wild card but I like that he isn't afraid to make passes into tight coverage and let his offensive playmakers make plays. It's hard to get a read on Peterman with the crazy circumstances he's had to play in. I wish we could've seen him play against the Colts in somewhat normal football conditions. Either way he will be competing with AJ McCarron and Mayfield for the right to be the starter. 

 

Having these 3 QB's on the roster would make me feel excited about the direction of the team and allow us to take a injury at the position and still be competitive.

 

 

I like Mayfield a lot but I think he is gone in the top 6.

 

[PaattMaann]

for those who say "develop peterman"...what the hell is there to develop? He throws like an infant...no thanks, doesn't cut it in the NFL. That throw that took four and a half minutes to get across the field in the playoff game is ALLLLLL you need to see to know his baby arm cannot compete...

 

Bring in a vet who is capable of reading defenses and attempting throws and who can start for one maybe two years, draft a guy IF YOU THINK HE CAN DO IT, and build the team....if the rookie surpasses the vet, then great...

 

* you need to take shots in the draft on QBs but only if you actually think they can do it. I guess they tried with Peterman but its obvious he does not have the physical tools to get it done (one good pass because he threw with anticipation, on the play Benjamin got injured, other than that he has looked like warm dog shat). Guys who argue to draft a QB just because we need one are idiots, yes its obvious we need a QB, but we need the RIGHT QB...if theres one there, draft him.

[BuffaloBillsGospel]

Cousins would be a sufficient upgrade, the problem with him is he'll most likely be the highest paid QB in the league when it's all said and done, do we have the salary cap to handle that sort of contract? We could make it work but at the expense of not being able to sign a few of our own guys, we would strictly have to find players in the draft, which we should be doing anyways and I'm all for it but I don't think this would be Cousins' 1st choice in an open market imo. 

 

The best route would be to draft our own, the downside is if you draft the wrong player your team is set back for years and the coaching regime is most likely fired but only trying twice in 18 years at a 1st round QB is unacceptable. This seems like a good year to go up and grab a QB, it will be expensive but the rewards could pay off big time. I believe this is the route the Bills should take because we can still sign free agents for the next 4 years if need be to compliment our QB. I'd rather have long term stability than a stop gap like Alex Smith who's shown he isn't good enough to take a team past the playoffs unless he has a dominant defense.

[billspro]

14 hours ago, Teddy KGB said:

Add one of group A.     Smith, Bradford, Keenum, Bridgewater, Mccown, Mccoy, Mcccaron. 

 

Add one of group B.      Rudolph, Mayfield. 

 

Alternative is all in for Rosen, and start him day 1. 

 

 

 

That is my plan as well. I would like to add a bridge QB. My preference would be Bradford. If he stays healthy we have a legit QB for the whole season and the rookie can sit an learn. He usually gets injured around week 8 and the rookie QB should be ready to go. My preference at this time for the draft is Rudolph. 

 

I would sign Bradford to a 1 year 15 million dollar contract with a team option for a second year. 

 

Then I would jump the Cardinals and the Bengals in the draft to make sure we get Rudolph. It will probably cost us a 1st, 2nd, and 5th but I am not messing around waiting for a franchise QB. 

[bobobonators]

1. I would fire Rico.

2. Sign Cousins.

3. Use this draft to lay the foundation for years to come:  Build both lines through this draft.

 

Some people love to hate on Cousins. His numbers over the last 3 seasons are absolutely awesome. Maybe 3-5 QB's in the NFL have better overall numbers than Cousins over that time period; he's been that good. The guy lost both his WR in the off season; lost his OC; lost his star TE to injury; had crap at RB; lost half his OL; and still managed to throw for 27TD this season (a "down" year).

 

I'd pay him whatever he wants. We have the money. He's 29. He's got a solid 5 years left of 27-32 TD/4500-4800yd passing seasons. What rookie can we make that guarantee for?. We have loads of draft picks. Build him a premier OL and improve the defense even more. We'll be in the playoffs for the next 5 years at least. 

 

For people who point to his W/L record:  Drew Brees and the Saints went 7-9 in 2014; 2015; and 2016. They went 11-5 this year for the same reason they went 11-5 in 2013 - they have a more complete team. Kirk Cousins isn't as good as Drew Brews, but the point is that the QB can only do so much when the team around him is subpar on various levels.

 

The redskins defense has never been great while Cousins has been there - they've ranged between average and flat out bad;  he's never had a running game; and Gruden is simply a subpar coach. The skins would've been better off firing Gruden and promoting McVay. 

 

 

If i'm Cousins - the Bills are a very attractive option. Shady still has juice left. We have at least 1 really good WR (we need to get another). We have a great young HC. And we have boatloads of picks. The arrow is pointing up. 

Edited January 11, 2018 by bobobonators

[Mat68]

Lets see what Beane is made of.  There are about 6 Qbs that have potential to go first rd.  My order would be 1. Rosen 2. Darnold 3. Allen 4. jackson 5. Mayfield 6. Rudolph.  Also, you have an intersting situation in Minnestoa.  Bradford when healthy is very good.  Keenum is playing out of his mind and everyone in Minnesota thought Bridgewater was the guy.  Add in Cousins has put up consistent top 10 number the last 3 years and he will hit the open market.   I will even add in what is going on with Luck?  Cousins will cost the most money and Rosen, Darnold, and Allen will cost the most in terms of trade value.  What way does Beane go.  This year has some of the most Qb options than any year in recent memory.  This is going to define the current regime they ge the right guy they get statues if they pick the wrong one they are gone.  if they dont pick any they are gone sooner.

[John from Riverside]

15 hours ago, Wayne Arnold said:

1. Go all-in on Kirk Cousins.

 

2. If #1 fails, try to get either Case Keenum or Teddy Bridgewater. Then choose a quarterback with one of the first four picks in the draft (21, 22, 53, or 56).

 

3. If #1 and #2 fail, trade for Alex Smith then draft a quarterback with one of the first four picks in the draft (21, 22, 53, or 56) or trade up for a QB.

 

4. Trade draft picks 21 and 22 for a Top 10 pick and choose a QB. Let Peterman and the rookie battle it out in training camp for the starting spot.

Pretty much where I am at

[ndirish1978]

Offer Cousins what we think he's worth or Move up in RD1 and draft a QB. I don't think it's outside the realm of possibility that we can turn our two first rounders into a early first round pick if we follow the Eagles playbook and package one of our 20s with a player to move up around 10 and then trade the other 20 and the 10 and maybe kick in a third for an early pick this year. Use that pick to draft whomever we like at QB and then invest heavily in the OL. 

 

[Batman1876]

I think that it may be impossible for us to land Cousins. A top ten QB has never hit the free agent market before without there being some sort of injury issue looming.  On top of that Washington has spent 3 years jacking up his market value  by franchising him and having him play well. On top of that free agency always raises the value of the contract. Clay is a good example of that on our team and Gilmore is an example of that as well (or remember the deal Bird signed).  The first time a top 10 QB ever hits free agency is going to cause a feeding frenzy. Cleveland and the Jets both have 3 times the cap space we have so there is no way we win a bidding war with them. All in all I am beginning to think Cousins is a pipe dream. 

 

[2003Contenders]

My first choice would be to sign Kirk Cousins in FA if he truly becomes available. Doing that would obviously cost a ton of $, but would also alleviate the need to draft one in the early rounds this year. Instead those picks could be used to bolster the lines and other areas. That IMHO would be the best case scenario and almost certainly leads to a better 2018 product on the field.

 

If Cousins is not available (and assuming no serious franchise QB is likely to be on the board at 21/22), then I honestly do not believe that there is another realistic option -- based on age, experience, skill, etc. -- available in free agency that would "solve" the QB issue for the long-term. So I would try to work the phones in hopes of using the heavy 2018 draft capital to move up for a franchise QB in the draft. If this happens, then I would like to see a journeyman veteran (Bradford, McCown, Moore, etc.) come in to help mold the rookie.

 

If legitimate options do not present themselves to trade up for a franchise guy, then I pray that the team does not over-reach for a lesser guy. Instead, there is no reason we can't push the draft capital back another year. That is, 21 and 22 are prime spots for teams who want to move up from the 2nd round to get that 6th year option on a player in the later part of the 1st round. Such a move would move one of our first rounders back to the 2nd round -- but garner another later 2018 pick in addition to an extra 2019 1st. In that scenario, you still draft a QB in 2018 if/when the value dictates AND acquire a second-tier QB that can start for a couple of years (Alex Smith or whomever).

 

So in summary:

 

1. Sign Cousins; only draft a QB if BPA in given round

 

2. Package picks to trade up for Rossen/Darnold/whomever; sign inexpensive veteran to mentor and possibly start early in the season

 

3. Sign a serviceable starting QB in FA (like Alex Smith); draft BPA QB; trade down with one of our 1st round picks to get an extra picks this year plus 1st rounder in 2019 and hope for a better shot at a franchise guy in 2019