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

Follow me on Twitter at: GTorlone

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.

Follow me on Twitter at: GTorlone

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.

Follow me on Twitter at: GTorlone

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

Follow me on Twitter at: GTorlone

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.

Follow me on Twitter at: GTorlone

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.

Follow me on Twitter at: GTorlone

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.

Follow me on Twitter at: GTorlone

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

Follow me on Twitter at: GTorlone

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.

Follow me on Twitter at: GTorlone

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.

Follow me on Twitter at: GTorlone

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.

Follow me on Twitter at: GTorlone

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.

Follow me on Twitter at: GTorlone

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!

Follow me on Twitter at: GTorlone

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

Follow me on Twitter at: GTorlone

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

Follow me on Twitter at: GTorlone

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:

Follow me on Twitter at: GTorlone

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.

Follow me on Twitter at: GTorlone

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.

Follow me on Twitter at: GTorlone