Two Bills Drive

The Colts tried everything they could to acquire a backup halfback from the Buffalo Bills, but they wouldn’t settle on Richard Huntley, who was later released by the Bills. They preferred Sammy Morris or Shawn Bryson, but no trade could be worked out.

The Bills today announced that the team has claimed off waivers offensive lineman Mike Houghton, linebacker Maugaula Tuitele, and linebacker Anthony Denman. The Bills have also signed TE Cory Geason.

‘The Bills chose Wire over Billy Jenkins, the veteran free agent signed during the offseason. While Jenkins played well, Wire was better in the eyes of the coaching staff.’

‘The Bills claimed linebackers Maugaula Tuitele from New England and Anthony Denman from Cleveland, and also added offensive lineman Mike Houghton from Green Bay. To make room for the trio, the Bills released veteran linebacker Fred Jones, rookie linebacker Dominique Stevenson and offensive tackle Kris Farris.’

‘The Monsignor Martin Association has the same challenge this season that the Harvard Cup experienced last year: paying the Buffalo Bills for use of Ralph Wilson Stadium.’

‘"Every single situation we’ve put him in, all he’s done is make plays," Williams said of the aggressive 6-foot, 209-pound Wire.’

‘Has any veteran QB ever walked into a better situation than Bledsoe?’

‘”I can’t imagine a better situation, for me personally, anywhere in the league,” Bledsoe said. “Kevin’s coaching style fits my style of play probably better than anybody I’ve ever worked with, from the standpoint of an offensive coordinator. He trusts me, and I trust him.”‘

A defensive end from Notre Dame, 23 year-old Grant Irons signed with the Buffalo Bills as a rookie free agent. That meant he was the longest of longshots to make this team.

A total of 21 waiver claims were awarded to NFL teams Monday. The Bills pointed to the LB position. They picked up linebackers Maugaula Tuitele (New England) and Anthony Denman (Cleveland) and released Fred Jones and seventh-round choice Dominique Stevenson. The Bills replaced tackle Kris Farris with Mike Houghton, a sixth-round pick from the Packers. They also released LB Fred Jones. The Rams got Bills defensive end Bryce Fisher.’

‘McDonnell, who spent all of last season on the New York Giants’ injured-reserve list, was considered a long-term project when he signed with the Bills last February. He had one catch for nine yards in three preseason games with Buffalo last month.’

‘A potent attack will give Buffalo a shot at winning the close games the Bills lost last year, and the new No. 11 should find a way to get the final ledger to 7-9.’

‘"Every single situation we’ve put him in, all he’s done is make plays," Williams said. "So he deserves to get a chance to get in and make some plays for us in a real game."’

The Bills today announced that the team has signed the following players to the practice squad: Ahmad Brooks, Michael Early, Brady McDonnell, Rodney Wright

Breaking News… Rookie Coy Wire has earned the start at strong safety in the season opener against the Jets.