Two Bills Drive

‘Not only are the newcomers expected to fill a number of gaping holes on what had been a banged-up and inexperienced Bills team last year, but just as notable is the leadership qualities they bring. That’s important for Centers. Although last year was his first in Buffalo, Centers quickly emerged as one of the team’s leaders. Now that load can be shared.’

The Bills held their final practice for rookies and selected veterans on Saturday morning. The entire team will resume practice on Sunday, as the veterans will be present to take part in practice for the first time since the 2002 Buffalo Bills Bausch & Lomb Training Camp started on Thursday.

The Buffalo Bills began practice this week at St. John Fisher College for rookies and selected veterans. Misc. photos…

‘Driver certainly has taken advantage of a second chance to make a good impression. Over the past 12 months, he has become a favorite of the coaching staff because of his work ethic.’

‘Last summer when Alexander tried out for the Bills, the team’s hierarchy knew he could run, but running alone isn’t good enough to make it in the NFL. You need to run, catch, block and play special teams, a fact Alexander became acutely aware of when he was cut despite leading the Bills’ in pre-season rushing.’

‘Moulds stopped at the Kirkhaven nursing home in Rochester for a 30-minute visit as he prepared to report to St. John Fisher College today with the rest of the Bills veterans.’

‘Denney, Buffalo’s second of two second-round picks (No. 61 overall), is expected to arrive in Rochester sometime today and will participate in the team’s one practice Saturday morning.’

”’My family used to live down the street from the old Rockpile in Buffalo so being a Bills fan was bred into me. I’ve met them all: O.J. (Simpson), Thurman (Thomas), Bruce (Smith) and Jim (Kelly) … This could be a great season if (Drew) Bledsoe stays healthy. The team made some bold moves but I think we had to put an end to that Flutie-Johnson era. I think we’ve got a quality quarterback with leadership and experience again.”’

‘Players appearing in the McDonald’s Autograph Tent, 20 minutes after each session. For kids 14 and under only. Today in a.m.: Alex Van Pelt, Mike Pucillo, Robert Hunt. Tight ends, kickers and punter at the fence.’

‘”I love the Bills,” said 14-year-old Mandy Weber of West Bloomfield, Ontario County, who arrived in Pittsford at 3:15 p.m. to secure good seats for the 6 p.m. parade. “We can’t afford to all go to the stadium to see a game, so we came out here to see them,” said Mandy’s mother, Ann Weber. “This could be her only chance to see the Bills.”‘

‘In addition to the workouts and various merchandise and food vendors, camp also be highlighted by the Buffalo Bills’ Experience. Segments include the quarterback challenge, 40-yard dash, bungee run, down-and-out, field-goal kick, football toss, obstacle challenge, climb-and-slide, fair-catch zone, touchdown run, obstacle course and basketball free throw.’

‘Each of the players was introduced, and Coach Gregg Williams and quarterback Drew Bledsoe spoke to the enthusiastic crowd.’

‘A graduate of Marshall High, Jackson is the first Rochester native to play NFL football in his hometown…even if it is only practice.’

"As a player that has come in here as a opponent for nine years, I know one fact, the Buffalo Bills have the best fans in the NFL," Bledsoe said to open his brief speech. "Playing in Ralph Wilson Stadium was something I never looked forward to because the fans were so good supporting their team. Since I've been here you've done nothing but prove me right. I don't make many promises but I promise you this one thing… we will do everything in our power to play football in a way that makes you proud to be a Buffalo Bills fan."

The McDonald's Autograph Tent schedule is set for the remainder of the Buffalo Bills Bausch & Lomb Training Camp. Listed below are the players who are scheduled to be in the tent signing autographs for 20 minutes after each session for kids 14 and under.