I've mentioned in a previous post how the Bills possess a good deal of depth across their roster entering this season. From top to bottom, there is competition at every position and the best man will earn that starting position. That's the way Chan Gailey coaches. We know about the defensive ends, we know about the running backs. But which of the roster positions might have a wealth of talent yet to breakthrough? ESPN's AFC East blogger James Walker examined groups that could exceed pre-season expectations. When it comes to the Bills, Walker says, it's their cornerbacks.
Walker predicts (and presumably so) that Aaron Williams, rookie Stephon Gilmore, and veteran Terrence McGee all figure to play into Buffalo's pass defense, which ranked 19th in the league last season. The combination of young athleticism and crafty veterans could make for a rather effective defensive backfield. However, the bolstered pass rush of the Bills might have the biggest effect on secondary play. As Walker notes, the quicker you get to the quarterback, the more uncomfortable he is, and that could result in more turnovers for the defense. The Bills' competitive group of defensive backs, including the likes of ballhawks Jairus Byrd and George Wilson, could create nightmares for opposing quarterbacks in 2012.
Interestingly, there is no mention of Leodis McKelvin, who finds himself (in a contract year) with what many believe is his last chance with the Bills. Quite frankly, even if he has some success, the Bills may still allow him to hit the free agent market. With Gilmore, Williams, McGee, and up-and-comers like Justin Rogers and Ron Brooks, there is probably no room for McKelvin in the already crowded secondary.
Follow me on Twitter at: GTorlone
No comments:
Post a Comment