Two Bills Drive

With Antoine Winfield taking over for Thomas Smith at right cornerback, there was some question whether he’d still be the nickel back playing the middle and covering the slot receiver on third downs.

What does Marcellus Wiley have to work on to replace Bruce Smith at right defensive end? Though defensive line coach John Levra likes Wiley’s speed, quickness and size, the coach is looking for him to improve his pass rush.

OK, Who will play free safety for the Bills? Good question. Manny Martin, Kurt Schulz’s backup, tore a knee ligament in mid-season and missed the remainder of the year. His status is questionable.

Some people think the veteran losses of starters Bruce Smith, Thomas Smith and Kurt Schulz will lead to defensive leadership deficit disorder. But if everyone follows the lead of someone such as Phil Hansen, that shouldn’t be a problem.

When Pat Williams signed a five-year contract extension last month, it led to speculation that he and Ted Washington could be used together as tackles in a 4-3 defense. But Wade Phillips squashed that idea: “Definitely out of the question.”