Stevie Invades ESPN

Bills wide receiver Steve Johnson took his talents to Bristol, Connecticut, on Wednesday, appearing on ESPN's NFL Live as well as participating in a SportsNation chat with fans. Here is a link to the chat transcript:

http://espn.go.com/sportsnation/chat/_/id/39162/bills-stevie-johnson

Johnson touches on just about everything a Bills fan might want to hear. From teammates like Ryan Fitzpatrick and Kyle Williams to his social media tactics and opinions of specific aspects of the NFL, Johnson leaves no stone unturned. I think that's what Bills fans like about him so much. Not only does he demonstrate a deep loyalty to the Bills and the city of Buffalo, he tells it like it is and isn't shy to voice his thoughts.

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VY in Buffalo?

NFL.com's Bucky Brooks recently posted an article regarding the potential fits for Titans quarterback Vince Young. Although he is still under contract, the Titans have stated that they will release or trade the six-year veteran once the lockout concludes. Undoubtedly, someone will take a flyer on the 28-year old quarterback, despite the fact that his career has been marred by off-the-field incidents, poor attitude, and lack of confidence. However, Young is also a winner. Brooks notes that his career record as a starter is 30-17, and the Titans are a mere 15-18 without him. He is actually coming off of one of the best seasons in his career, completing just under 60% of his passes, with ten touchdowns versus three picks.

Brooks lists the Bills as one of five potential fits for Young, the others being Miami, Oakland, Philadelphia, and Green Bay. Here's what Brooks had to say about a possible Bills/Young pairing:

Chan Gailey's previous success with Kordell Stewart and Tyler Thigpen would make the addition of Young an intriguing scenario. Gailey loves to build his system around the talents of his triggerman, so Young might find comfort working within the Bills' wide-open scheme. AlthoughRyan Fitzpatrick has been productive as the team's starter over the past two seasons, the chance to add another explosive option could help the team compete in the tough AFC East.

I'm not sure if head coach Chan Gailey would be interested in a player, especially a quarterback, who has had some issues mentally, regardless of his athleticism. Nonetheless, it must be noted that Ryan Fitzpatrick's contract expires after the 2011 season, leaving the Bills in the market for a quarterback yet again. Bringing in Young might give him a year to get accustomed to the offense, however, being the competitor that he is, I can foresee Young voicing his pleas to start by mid-season. At the end of the day, although I do believe that Gailey could have some success with VY, I don't think the Bills will be in the leading mix for him.

Check out Brooks' article here:

http://www.nfl.com/news/story/09000d5d8205a1a4/article/young-must-be-willing-to-reinvent-himself-to-find-new-home

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Spiller/McKelvin Swap Numbers

Stop! Before you go and order your new-look CJ Spiller or Leodis McKelvin jersey, be sure to take note of the number change. Spiller presumably asked McKelvin about switching numbers and he evidently has agreed, as CJ will now wear #28 and Leodis will put on the #21.

Spiller wore #28 at Clemson, so it's understandable that he'd want to wear it once again. Coming off what some fans certainly perceive as a disappointing rookie season, Spiller appears to be striving to make changes in all aspects of his game, including putting his old college number over his shoulders every Sunday. Hopefully he also brings some of the electricity he had on the field for the Tigers to Ralph Wilson Stadium this fall.

McKelvin wore #34 at Troy, a number no Buffalo Bill has worn since Thurman Thomas retired. Although it is not officially retired by the Bills, I'd say that not wearing 34 is an unwritten rule. Similarly, #32 (OJ Simpson) and #78 (Bruce Smith) haven't been worn by any Bills since their departure from the team.

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Bills Unveil New Jerseys!

For the first time since Drew Bledsoe arrived on the scene in 2002, the Buffalo Bills have a new weekly uniform. Check out the video of the unveiling right here:

http://www.buffalobills.com/media-center/videos/New-Bills-Uniforms-Unveiled/ed29e252-efa5-48ad-ae18-e388b9815138

These new uniforms will at least ensure that the Bills, regardless of whether they are winning or losing, will look good doing it. Jerseys are on sale now at: www.shopthebills.com. There, you'll find jerseys from a wide array of players, from rookie Marcell Dareus and defensive tackle Kyle Williams, to quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick and wide receiver Steve Johnson. Currently, they are listed at $85 each.

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Florence to Give Away New Jerseys?

It appears as though Bills cornerback Drayton Florence will be giving away some new Bills jerseys, with his name and number on them, of course. Earlier in the year, Florence stated that once he got to 7,000 followers on Twitter, he would give away 29 jerseys with his name and number (also 29) on the back. It's been almost perfectly timed with the Bills uniform unveiling tonight, as Florence currently sits at 6,997 followers. Some Bills fans might be skeptical because Florence is a pending free agent and might not even return to the team. However, he must have some sort of inside information if he intends to give these jerseys away, right? Let's hope so.

Keep an eye on Florence's Twitter at the link below, and be sure to follow him if you don't already!

Follow Drayton at: DraytonFlorence

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Safety Rankings: Byrd 16th, Whitner Isn't Top 30

NFL.com senior analyst Pat Kirwan recently posted his ranking of the top safeties across the league, placing five in each "tier" of talent. No Buffalo Bill appeared until the fourth tier, where you'll find Jairus Byrd, ranked 16th overall, stating that he "Had nine interceptions two years ago as a rookie, but only one in 2010. Byrd doubled his total tackles in 2010 (89) and forced three fumbles. Kirwan also notes with a '^' that Byrd is on the rise and has room for growth.

I immediately question the legitimacy of this list when I see Louis Delmas of the Lions at number two, ahead of the likes of Troy Polamalu and Ed Reed. Nothing against Delmas, as he has shown he will be a terrific safety in the NFL, but he has yet to earn what Reed and Polamalu have. You'll find the most underrated players in tier five, where OJ Atogwe, Malcolm Jenkins, and former Bill Jim Leonhard are ranked. I personally believe that putting the three of them outside the top 20 is a farce. Additionally, there are also two players in the top six coming off of their rookie seasons, those being Earl Thomas at five and Eric Berry at six. I think it's a little early to call them top six in the NFL, but it is an opinion column.

What's even more intriguing for Bills fans is that you won't find Donte Whitner on the list of the top 30. You'll see him in the 'Keep An Eye On' section at the bottom of the article, which you can view here:

http://www.nfl.com/news/story/09000d5d8206ee75/article/young-faces-join-reed-polamalu-among-nfls-best-safeties?module=HP_cp2

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Bills Unveil New Digs Tonight

Tonight, the Bills will officially unveil their new uniforms for the 2011 season in a special launch event presented by Reebok. The event begins at 6:30 p.m. from Ralph Wilson Stadium, running until 10:30. The uniform unveiling begins at 7:15, followed by a 2010 highlight video and then a special screening of 'The Blind Side' at 8:20. Those scheduled to appear include Hall of Fame quarterback Jim Kelly, special teams ace Steve Tasker, Wall of Fame cornerback Booker Edgerson, AFL Champion wide receiver Charley Ferguson, the Buffalo Jills, Billy Buffalo, as well as United States military personnel.

Tickets are required for the event, however, they are complimentary and are available at select Verizon Wireless locations in Buffalo and Rochester, as well as all Erie County M&T Bank branches. If that's not an option for you, they're also available at the Bills ticket office and on ticketmaster.com.

There has been much speculation about how the Bills new uniforms will look. In a statement released by the Bills, they have said that "the new uniforms will incorporate the Bills storied history while keeping the team's signature charging buffalo." One of the most common "leaks" out there is the Nike concept uniform, however, that has been proven to be fake. Above is what I believe is the best prediction for the new digs.

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Johnson vs. Bengals

Continuing the Top 10 performances of 2010 trend on buffalobills.com, Bills lead journalist Chris Brown sat down with wide receivers coach Stan Hixon to analyze Steve Johnson's eight catch, 137 yard, three touchdown performance in a 49-31 come-from-behind win over the Bengals. Take a look at the video right here:

http://www.buffalobills.com/media-center/videos/Top-10-Performances-Steve-Johnson-vs-Cincinnati/d659f312-0797-4db1-be72-2cc43e2a074a#cltop

It's interesting to see the coach's breakdown of a player's performance. Johnson definitely shows some shiftiness in the open field and although he doesn't have breakaway speed, he's fast enough to pick up significant yards after the catch. I don't think you saw a one-year wonder in Johnson last year. He fits head coach Chan Gailey's offensive scheme perfectly, and he showed that last year. With Johnson making a name for himself across the league, it'll be interesting to see how Gailey works Lee Evans back into the mix. The Bills head coach mentioned that he'd like to get the veteran receiver more involved this season.

I'm sure that Brown would've love to have Johnson as a part of the interview, as well, to see how he broke down each play. However, since Brown is on one side of the lockout and Johnson is on the other, the two are not allowed contact with one another.

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PFT's Florio Talks Bills

This morning on WGR 550's The Howard Simon Show, Profootballtalk.com's Mike Florio provided football fans an update on the NFL's current labor situation. Additionally, he provided his Bills fans with some input on the team's future. Check out the entire interview right here (audio at the bottom of the linked page):

http://wgr550.com/PFT-s-Mike-Florio-Talks-Bills-Future/10177424

Florio mentions that the new CBA (which he predicted will be agreed to by June 30) will not be the best situation for the Bills because of the new rules. He says that a 95% spending principle (which he explains) will force teams to reconfigure and relocate into more financially stable markets. He also notes that if current owner Ralph Wilson maintains his position to not sell the team before his death, the likelihood of the Bills staying in Buffalo becomes a murky situation. However, he does add that the "political heavyweights" in Buffalo will make it a tough task to pry the Bills out of the city.

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Bills' Rookie Looking For Playbook

The Bills' first pick on day two of the NFL Draft, cornerback Aaron Williams out of Texas, recently went to the veterans of the secondary in search of a playbook. Williams posted this on Twitter:

ajwilliams04
@DonteWhitner @jairusbyrd man help a brotha out I need a playbook ASAP

The NFL lockout was re-instated the day Williams was drafted, so he was unfortunately unable to retrieve a playbook from the Bills coaching staff. The only player eligible to receive a playbook from the coaches was first round pick Marcell Dareus, however, he did not do so. Nonetheless, it is encouraging to see that the young defensive back is eager to learn the intricacies of the defense. Although it's interesting to see the response of pending free agent Donte Whitner, who said he didn't have it, because Williams could be in line to take his job.

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NFL.com's Wyche Compliments Bills

Steve Wyche, of NFL.com, recently participated in a live chat with football fans and was asked the following question by a follower named Brett:

What is your take on the Bills outlook this season? I have them in the bottom 10 in the league record wise but expect to see improvement in the run defense.

Wyche responded with:

Brett, I'm serious when I say this. I think they're going to be very competitive and be much more of a threat than would seem right now. I like the Bills. Got to tighten up the offensive line but I think they've got something working there.

Bills fans are often critical of the media's perception of the team. While I do believe that the Bills are (for the right reasons) looked over in most talks regarding the AFC East, I wouldn't say that the national media 'hates' them. Of course a team with only one winning season in the last eleven is going to be overlooked. You can't just sign a high profile player like a Terrell Owens of sorts and expect national love. There has to be a successful product on the field. Winning fixes everything.

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Bills' Jasper Arm-wrestles Radio Host

A few days ago, soon to be Buffalo Bill Michael Jasper was challenged to an arm-wrestling match by Weevil Kneivel, a radio host for 100.9's The Farm and self-proclaimed superhero of Carroll County in Huntingdon, TN. It did not fare well for Kneivel, as Jasper disposes of the old-timer, despite his attempt to bring Jasper down with two hands. Take a look at the video...

The Bills drafted Jasper in the 7th round of April's NFL Draft. The 6'4, 375-pound Jasper might figure to be a big run-stuffer in the middle of the defensive line for the Bills. However, I personally believe that Bills fans are getting a little over-excited about the big man out of Bethel College. He was a 7th round selection for a reason, and probably wouldn't have been drafted if not for the Bills taking a flyer on him because of the current rules against signing undrafted free agents. I'm very intrigued to see what the guy can do, yet I would refer to my stance on Jasper as more of cautious optimism.

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Spiller's Off-Season Training

Buffalo Bills running back CJ Spiller didn't have as exciting of a rookie season as some fans had hoped he would. Head coach Chan Gailey wasn't shy to admit that it was Spiller's troubles with blocking and picking up blitzes that kept him off the field. Well, it appears that CJ is making a valiant effort to improve his balance and overall strength in order to prevent oncoming linebackers and defensive lineman from getting to the quarterback. The video below shows Spiller's current off-season training program, which consists of mixed martial arts activities. Some fans might wonder how this applies to football. As I said before, this training will help Spiller's strength, being that he is somewhat undersized, as well as improve his balance, endurance and mental focus. It's good to see that even amidst this lockout nonsense, some Bills are still preparing for the hardships of the NFL season.

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Wood vs. Suh

Buffalo Bills lead journalist Chris Brown recently sat down with offensive line coach Joe D'Alessandris to break down the performance of guard Eric Wood against the number two overall pick in last year's draft, Ndamukong Suh of the Detroit Lions. Bills fans might find this interesting because it breaks down a battle in the trenches that isn't often seen throughout the course of the game. As you'll see, Wood does an excellent job picking up the defensive rookie of the year and 2010 Pro Bowler. He is the type of player this offensive line can build around for years to come.

The link to the video is right here:

http://www.buffalobills.com/media-center/videos/Top-10-Performances-Eric-Wood-vs-Detroit/8d452f9b-304e-40d0-bab4-7590572c8ed7

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Bills' Whitner Rated 7th Best Free Agent Safety

The USA Today's Nate Davis recently rated the top ten potential free agent safeties that will hit the market once the lockout is resolved. Coming off a 140 tackle season, the Bills' Donte Whitner rated seventh on Davis' list, behind the likes of the 49ers' Dashon Goldson, the Saints' Roman Harper, the Raiders' Michael Huff, the Chargers' Eric Weddle, the Eagles' Quentin Mikell, and the Bears' Danieal Manning.

Davis goes on to comment that Whitner has not lived up to the potential of the 8th overall pick in the 2006 NFL Draft, suggesting that "big plays aren't his forte." Most Bills fans would probably agree that they expect more big plays out of Whitner. While he is almost a surefire tackler, Whitner rarely comes up with big interceptions or sacks. GM Buddy Nix suggested earlier in the off-season that he believes Whitner doesn't want to be in Buffalo, and while I don't believe that to be entirely true, I certainly wouldn't overpay for his services. Someone else probably will, and they'll have an overpaid safety with coverage problems for five or six years.

For Davis' entire article, check out this link:

http://content.usatoday.com/communities/thehuddle/post/2011/06/who-are-the-best-safeties-about-to-hit-nfls-free-agent-market/1

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Steve Johnson for Madden '12 Cover

Calling all Bills fans! The people at EA Sports have released an NCAA Tournament style vote for the cover of Madden '12. Each team has one player representative, seeded 1-16. Fans can vote on each matchup, ultimately leading to the Madden '12 championship, where the winner will be the cover athlete on this year's game.

Wide receiver Steve Johnson has been selected to represent the Bills as a 13-seed. He is pitted against division rival and 4-seed in Patriots running back Danny Woodhead. The winner of this matchup will square off against the winner of Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks and Redskins defensive end Brian Orakpo next week.

Be sure to vote for Steve Johnson and show the world how dedicated Bills fans are! Here is the link to the tournament: http://espn.go.com/sportsnation/feature/madden2012cover

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Bills Meet Gabbert Over Dinner

According to NFL.com's Gil Brandt, Bills GM Buddy Nix and a few other team reps had dinner with Missouri quarterback Blaine Gabbert last night. Of course, Gabbert's pro day is scheduled for today. It is widely believed by scouts and experts that as long as Gabbert has a solid showing today, he will be the first quarterback taken off the board come April. Check out Brandt's full report, including a list of early attendees to Gabbert's workout, here: http://blogs.nfl.com/2011/03/17/bills-dine-with-gabbert-prior-to-workout/

This is really the first time I have noticed any interest from the Bills in the Missouri quarterback. Obviously, with the third overall pick, the Bills can go in a variety of directions. Head coach Chan Gailey has stated that if there is somebody there that they think is a franchise player, they're going to take him. As of yesterday, I would've been surprised if the Bills took the junior at third overall, but now, it might be the road their choosing. However, Gabbert must get past the Carolina Panthers at the top overall selection first. One would think that after drafting Tim Tebow in the first round last year, the Broncos wouldn't be interested at two.

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OT Carimi Visited Yesterday

Buffalobills.com reports that Wisconsin offensive tackle Gabe Carimi visited with the Bills yesterday. He is thought to be a mid-to-late first round pick, so unless his draft stock falls or the Bills trade up from 34, it doesn't seem likely that Carimi will become a Bill. He had a pretty good Senior Bowl playing left tackle, but a lot of draft "experts" have him projecting to the right side of the line.

Carimi would be an excellent fit for the Bills, who definitely have a wholes at the tackle position. While Demetrius Bell will probably start on the left side, there is a log jam on the right side of the line, but none of the options are all that appealing. Between Mansfield Wrotto, Erik Pears, Cordaro Howard, and Ed Wang, there isn't a ton of experience at the right tackle position. Carimi wouldn't bring a wealth of experience, but he sure would bring a heck of a talent. Again, the Bills would more than likely have to trade up on draft day to get him, and in the middle of a rebuilding process, GM Buddy Nix might decide that holding onto extra draft picks is more valuable.

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DE Bowers Also to Visit

According to a report on ESPN.com, Clemson defensive end Da'Quan Bowers will meet with seven teams that hold the top eight picks in next month's entry draft. The Bills are one of those teams. The only team among the top eight not to set up a visit with Bowers was the San Franciscio 49ers, who pick seventh.

I wouldn't be at all surprised if the Bills used the third overall selection on Bowers, especially if Alabama's Marcell Dareus is off the board. After leading the nation in sacks with 15.5, Bowers had arthroscopic surgery on his knee in January to repair a torn meniscus. Recovery time and rehab did not allow the junior to work out at the scouting combine last month. His pro day is currently set for April 1st. If the Bills feel that Bowers has fully recovered from his knee injury, he could very well be wearing a Bills uniform when football resumes.

View the report from ESPN here: http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/draft2011/news/story?id=6225157

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LB Miller to Visit Bills

WGR550's Joe Buscaglia reported earlier this week (via ESPN.com) that Texas A&M linebacker Von Miller is scheduled for a two-day visit with the Bills, beginning today. Miller is almost certainly going to be a top ten pick, and Bills head coach Chan Gailey has had some experience with the outside linebacker. Gailey coached Miller at the 2011 Senior Bowl, where he recored four tackles, two of which went for a loss.

While Miller is easily the best pass-rushing linebacker available, I would be slightly surprised if the Bills used the third overall pick on him. Arthur Moats had a solid second half to his rookie season and the team put a good deal of money into re-signing Shawne Merriman. Additionally, Chris Kelsay still figures to start at outside linebacker in Buffalo's 3-4 defense. Should the Bills give a 4-3 look, Kelsay may move to defensive end, but I still don't believe outside linebacker is an immediate need. However, if Gailey and GM Buddy Nix feel that Miller is the best player available at three, they will take him. Personally, I think the pick might be better served as a defensive lineman like Marcell Dareus, Nick Fairley, or Da'Quan Bowers.

A note to consider, however, this picture was released during Senior Bowl week.

Buscaglia also notes that Miller has a visit set up with the Cleveland Browns, who own the sixth pick in the draft. Here is a link to Buscaglia's report: http://wgr550.com/Report--LB-Von-Miller-to-Visit-Bills/9396749.

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Bills Statement Regarding Labor Situation

The Bills joined the list of NFL teams to release statements to their fans about the current labor dispute. CEO Russ Brandon had this to say:

"We share our fans' disappointment with the news on Friday that the NFLPA has filed for decertification and a work stoppage has begun. We remain hopeful that a new and fair agreement can be reached in time to avoid any significant disruption to our preparations for the 2011 season. We believe that the quickest way to a fair agreement for everyone -- players, teams and fans -- is through negotiations facilitated by the mediator and not through litigation.

"As an organization, winning a championship continues to be our No. 1 goal. Under the direction of general manager Buddy Nix, our entire football staff is hard at work, preparing for the upcoming 2011 NFL draft, where we have the third overall selection. Coach [Chan] Gailey and his staff are also hard at work, preparing for when our team returns to the field. Concurrently, the administrative departments continue to work diligently on the day-to-day business operations in preparation for the season. ...

"We certainly appreciate the support and patience of our fans and we look forward to presenting a full season of exciting Buffalo Bills football in 2011."

It's encouraging to hear something out of the Bills front office during this work stoppage. There is certainly a small jab at the NFLPA for their actions throughout the negotiations, but that is expected since the owners (much like the players) want to come out smelling like roses. All in all, I found the most important part of this statement to first sentence of the second paragraph. Take another read.

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Wang "First Take" Interview

Bills offensive tackle Ed Wang appeared with Michael Smith on ESPN's "First Take" this morning, to talk about his trip to China where he taught football to children. Here is the video:

The Bills made Wang the first ever Chinese-born player drafted into the NFL when they selected him in the 5th round last year.

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Kirwan Has Bills Going DE, QB

NFL.com's Pat Kirwan recently posted a two round mock draft, and has the Bills addressing two immediate needs. However, it may not be the two specific players that the fans are looking for. At third overall, Kirwan has the Bills selecting Clemson defensive end Da'Quan Bowers. Since he has Patrick Peterson and Marcell Dareus as the top two picks, it wouldn't be unreasonable to see Bowers as the choice. He does have some questions to answer about his knee, but his 15.5 sacks last year can't be ignored.

In the second round, Kirwan mocks Arkansas quarterback Ryan Mallett to the Bills. While this pick would certainly make sense (if Mallett falls this far), I'm not sure if Mallett is the type of player that Chan Gailey and Buddy Nix are looking to lead the franchise. His arm is incredible, but he has been linked to off-the-field issues that question his leadership and commitment to the game. The media mess that is Charlie Sheen didn't help Mallett's this past week, by saying that the quarterback had left drug paraphernalia at his house. Even if it was a joke, it's something that won't be amusing to NFL teams.

Check out Kirwan's full mock here:

http://www.nfl.com/news/story/09000d5d81ebf6c2/article/defense-rules-early-in-a-look-at-the-first-two-rounds?module=HP_cp2

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Johnson in on the Madness

Bills wide receiver Stevie Johnson announced on his Facebook page that he will be hosting a NCAA March Madness bracket competition. The winner of the contest will receive an autographed #13 jersey, courtesy of the Bills receiver. To sign up, follow this link:

http://bracket.protrade.com/bracket/group/detail/9037276

Johnson, a former student at the University of Kentucky, will certainly be pulling for the Wildcats this month.

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Whitner Vows "Best Season Ever"

Bills safety and pending free agent Donte Whitner posted this on Twitter today:

DonteWhitner:

I will have my best season ever this upcoming year....wherever I end up!

While it is encouraging to hear Whitner speak with such confidence, it isn't the first time he's talked a big game. Back in 2008, he guaranteed the Bills would make the playoffs. After a 5-1 start, the Bills sputtered into a 7-9 finish. Additionally, Whitner is already coming off what is arguably his best season as a pro, where he finished 5th in the NFL with 140 total tackles. It will be hard for him to top that season, regardless of where he ends up. And my initial feeling is that the Bills will not re-sign Donte.

Whitner has not exactly lived up to the expectations of the 8th overall pick in 2006. After a promising rookie season, Whitner has shown outstanding ability to make open-field tackles, but lackluster ability in coverage. It was rumored that the Bills had offered Whitner close to $5 million per year, but he held out for $7 million per year. While I can't confirm nor deny those rumors, I can say that I don't think the Bills and Whitner will iron out a deal to keep him in Buffalo any longer.

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Little Fitz!

Congratulations to Bills quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick and wife, who welcomed a daughter into the world last night. Wide receiver Steve Johnson broke the news regarding Lucy Violet Fitzpatrick.

StevieJohnson13

Congrats To The General! General Fitzpatrick and his Wife had a Baby FlyGurl Last Night Ms. Lucy Violet!!!

Have to send out my own congratulations to the aptly named "General," Ryan Fitzpatrick.

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Johnson and Florence Organize Off-Season Activity

Bills wide receiver Steve Johnson and pending free agent cornerback Drayton Florence exchanged these tweets today:

Florence:

@StevieJohnson13 brah get the wr together and I got the DBS and let's do 7 on 7 for a week in fla ????

Johnson:

@DraytonFlorence Either Fla or AZ. Fitz stay in Zona. I kno he's down with it. That sound like a plan tho either way.

Florence:

@StevieJohnson13 fla one week zona the next let's do it I need a condo in zona anyway feel me

Johnson:

@DraytonFlorence just put the word out via text and The#GoonSquad is ready! @leeevans83 @DavidNelson86@Dajones19 @scoe11 @nyce18 all down!

It's definitely encouraging to hear that some of the Bills players have taken it upon themselves to organize some off-season workouts in loom of the lockout. This shows initiative, leadership, and companionship, which is fundamental for the betterment of the team. Personally, I'm very surprised by Florence, who is not even under contract with the Bills. He is really demonstrating his hopes to stay in Western New York. By rule, coaches are not allowed to attend player workouts during the lockout.

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Wang to Appear on First Take

Buffalo Bills offensive tackle Ed Wang will appear on ESPN's First Take Monday morning to discuss his recent trip to China. Last year, the Bills made Wang the first ever Chinese-born player drafted into the NFL. Again, be sure to check out First Take this Monday for an outstanding story from Bills OT Ed Wang!

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Farmer of LA Times Says Newton to Bills

Sam Farmer of the LA Times says that Cam Newton should "double up on the Under Armour because he's heading to Buffalo." Farmer has Blaine Gabbert as the top overall selection by the Carolina Panthers and adds that the Broncos won't take a quarterback because they took Tim Tebow in the first round last year, leaving Newton to the Bills at three. He suggests that Ryan Fitzpatrick can remain the starter in 2011, allowing Newton to get acclimated to the NFL before taking over.

This seems like a reasonable possibility for the Bills as the draft approaches. They were one of eight teams to set up private meetings with Newton and his agents, the others being Carolina (#1), Cincinnati (#4), Cleveland (#6), Tennessee (#8), Washington (#10), Minnesota (#12), and Miami (#15). Farmer is correct in his assumption that even if the Bills select a quarterback with their first pick, Ryan Fitzpatrick figures to be the opening day starter. Buffalo also seems to have the best (or most convenient) ability to transition from one quarterback to the next, as Fitz's deal only runs through the end of next season.

The Chicago Tribune and Sun Sentinel also entertain the idea of Cam Newton to the Bills. Check out the article here:

http://www.wsbt.com/chi-110310-four-corners,0,4220476.column

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Baldinger Mocks Gabbert to Bills

Former NFL player and current broadcaster Brian Baldinger presented the top ten of his 2011 mock draft on NFL Network, and it came with a few surprises. Baldinger had the Carolina Panthers taking LSU defensive back Patrick Peterson with the first overall selection, which would be the first time a defensive back has been the top pick. At number two, he has Alabama defensive lineman Marcell Dareus to the Denver Broncos, putting the Bills on the clock. At number three, Baldinger claims that the Bills must get rid of "the ghost of Jim Kelly," and will do so by drafting Missouri quarterback Blaine Gabbert.

There hasn't been much talk from One Bills Drive regarding the Missouri product. Personally, I believe that Gabbert's situation is similar to Matt Ryan's in 2008, where he could be the best quarterback in a year where there is no consensus number one overall pick. Bills head coach Chan Gailey has stated that if he thought there was a "franchise" guy available at quarterback, they would do what's best for the future of the team. Whether or not Gabbert is franchise material in the eyes of the coaching staff remains to be seen.

Check out Baldinger's top ten here:

http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-draft/09000d5d81eb490d/Baldinger-s-mock-draft

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Check Out Stevie's Styles

Bills wide receiver Stevie Johnson joined Miami Heat forward Chris Bosh, New York Rangers winger Sean Avery, Texas Rangers pitcher CJ Wilson, and golfer Ian Poulter in this year's ESPN The Magazine's Style Issue, dated March 21st, 2011. Johnson has vaulted into the spotlight since his breakout season in 2010, garnering a boatload of media spotlight in the process. This time, it's his unique fashion style that has gained attention.

You can check out some of the shoot here:

But just for fun, let's reminisce about Stevie's wardrobe selection at the podium after the Bills' victory against the Cincinnati Bengals:

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Kiper Has Bills Taking Dareus

In Mel Kiper's updated mock draft following the combine, he has the Bills taking Alabama defensive lineman Marcell Dareus at number three. This pick would make a lot of sense for the Bills, who were dead last in the league against the run last season. Dareus (pronounced Dahr-E-us) is a very versatile defensive lineman who could play defensive end in the "hybrid" 3-4 the Bills have said that they will run next season. The 6'3, 319-pound Dareus wowed scouts at the combine, all but ensuring that he will be off the board in the top five come April. The Bills and their porous run defense would be hard-pressed to pass on him should he make it to three.

Kiper previously had the Bills selecting Auburn quarterback Cam Newton at three. I do believe that Newton will be in play for the Bills at the third overall selection and that there will be some discussion about taking him. Bills head coach Chan Gailey has a knack for working with athletic quarterbacks and Newton's size and athleticism have to be appealing, especially with the incumbent Ryan Fitzpatrick in the final year of his contract. Kiper now has Newton falling to the Bengals at four.

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Nix Says DT Isn't "An Area of Need"

When asked about defensive tackles Kyle Williams and Torell Troup, Bills GM Buddy Nix replied, "I don't think that's an area of need. I don't." He added that Troup, a second round pick last year, would rate first or second amongst this year's nose tackles. While I agree that nose tackle, specifically, is not really a pressing need for the Bills, it's interesting that Nix thinks Troup would rate so highly in this year's crop. It says a lot about the confidence this staff has in the kid to spell Kyle Williams when necessary.

All that said, I still think that the Bills will address the defensive line in the draft. With the departure of Marcus Stroud, the Bills are left with Dwan Edwards, who is returning from injury, second-year pro Alex Carrington, Spencer Johnson, and the oh-so-disappointing John McCargo. With Johnson due to make $3 million this season and McCargo having been such a bust up to this point, it wouldn't surprise me to see neither of them on the roster next season.

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