Mini-Camp Awards

As mini-camp wrapped up this week, Bills lead journalist Chris Brown highlighted the most impressive performances over the past month of workouts and offseason training activities. You should definitely taken a look at Brown's analysis, but here is who he felt deserved recognition for their performance:

Most improved: CB Justin Rogers
Most encouraging: DE Shawne Merriman
Most consistent: S George Wilson and WR David Nelson
Best unit: Defensive line
Best rookie: CB Stephon Gilmore and OT Cordy Glenn
Biggest surprise: FB/TE Dorin Dickerson
Biggest playmakers: TE Scott Chandler and S George Wilson

It comes as no surprise to anyone that the defensive line would perform as the best unit. The Bills spent a boatload of money revamping their front four and it seems as though they will be a force to be reckoned with. Hopefully on Sunday's, they will pay dividends. George Wilson made the list twice, which is also no surprise considering he notched four interceptions in only 13 practices. Again, his success, as well as the emergence of Stephon Gilmore, could be a direct result of added pressure by the defensive line. Shawne Merriman could play heavily into that, but his health will of course determine his output this season. Nevertheless, he fully participated this past week, which as Brown says, is encouraging.

Offensively, David Nelson and Scott Chandler continue to emerge as passing threats for Ryan Fitzpatrick. They each have excellent hands that will move the chains. Chandler figures to be a big redzone target, as well. Dorin Dickerson may be somewhat of an x-factor in Buffalo's offense this season. He could figure to play that "H-back" role made popular by Chris Cooley of the Redskins. Texans tight end Owen Daniels was also an H-back in college and was converted into a very successful tight end. The Bills hope to have similar results with Dickerson. All of this success will hinge on one thing, and that's the big guys up front. With four returning starters, the offensive line has one gaping hole at left tackle. Rookie Cordy Glenn played every snap with the first team this past week, going up against that vaunted defensive front. If he gels with the offensive line quicker than the Bills had hoped, that could make for a very efficient Bills offense this season.

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