Hello fellow rumblers.  It's been quite sometime since I have posted.  Partly to the fact that rambling on about meaningless pre-season games doesn't fit the fancy of my fingers on a keyboard ( as Poz mentioned awhile back in a well written post).  I also do not understand why some fans are surprised at the Bills performance Monday night.  So many media outlets including ourselves at times had them cited for a 4-12 season, so the only thing they could do was exceed expectations monday night........right?  I am absolutely pleased after watching that game monday night for every reason. 

First off the offensive line was fantastic monday night in scope.  With the Owens signing many of us forgot or didn't know much about Hangartner.  Vince Wilfork was easily Buffalo's biggest problem on NE's defense the last two or three contests.  Watching him have no impact last night thanks to a younger, faster, stronger, and more agile interior front then Buffalo has fielded in many years was awesome.  Putting Bell under the microscope just isn't fair at this point.  I actually felt for the guy Monday Night.  He is after all a 7th round project tackle thrown into starting duties a week before the season on national television against Buffalo's mosted hated rival.  I also believe his lower back is still bothering him.  He really broke down when he got Bull rushed straight up towards the end of the game.  How would any of us play with those kind of conditions?  I do expect a big improvement next week though.

Secondly, I hope as many people as I were surprised to see the beautifully orchestrated screen passes Monday night.  This continues my praise of the young and agile offensive line.  I believe Jauron really has a feel for this team after three years and Van Pelt is on the same page.  Couldn't ask for better play calling from the Booth.  Hats off to Trent for selling the screen better this year as well.  I honestly can't even remember a screen pass in our offense last year?  Freddy is such a snake!

Thirdly,  Trent  played a great game Monday Night.  I also don't think he played a whole lot better than expected in my opinion.  As I mentioned above I don't put one ounce of thought into pre-season performances and for this very reason.  The numbers he put up are about usual for him when the wind isn't blowing and the sun is shining (night games included).   The offense only had the ball for just over 1/4 of the game, so who knows what he could have done if they had managed another 2 or three drive attempts.  And to finish on Edwards.....what's his 40 time these days....haha....made some nice plays on the ground monday night.  I belive those are veteran-like instincts.

more after the jump>>>

Continue reading this post »

In light of all of the talk surrounding the comparisons of the 90's Bills teams and this years squad I decided to take a deeper look player by player.  This is the Second part of the two part series that will examine the offenses from and for the perspective rosters of 1990 and 2009.  After seeing the defensive piece slammed a bit from misinterpretation, the purpose of the comparison is to show what COULD be in 2009.  People expected the Bills to be a good team in 1990, but were not expected begin the march of 4 straight superbowl appearances.  If you can find evidence someone predicted that in 1989 or 1990 please post it!  Tim Graham among others brought up discussions about a No-huddle offense being reinstated in Buffalo this season.  The no-huddle offense was off and running in 1990 behind the signal calling of Jim Kelly.  The Buffalo offense featured two dynamic receivers, Two great running backs, a versatile tight end, a humongous experienced offensive line, and of course a now hall of fame quarterback.  Going into 1990 the Bills looked good on paper.  In 2009 we find the same situation come to fruition.  The 2009 paper roster shows a Dynamic receiver Duo, solid young Tight End prospects,  a Large, but inexperienced offensive line, 3 great running backs, and an up and coming quaterback.  My intention here like the defensive peice is to show how the teams were built and run.  Also to show what it will take statistically to be a contender.  Another important thing to note is that in order for the team to succeed in the Wins column with the No-huddle offense, they must have a young resilient defense. Bruce Smith often commented on how much time the defense had to spend on the field because the offense quote on quote "scored too damn fast".  Much like 1990, the defense doesn't have to hold teams to 10 points or fewer, but just out last the other team's offense.  Take a look at the stats and have fun with the comment section.  And please Buffalo Bills Fans, it has been awhile since we have seen the playoffs, but a little optimism would be nice for a change. 

 Offensive Starters

Lineman:

LT- Howard Ballard- Selected by the Buffalo Bills in the 11th round of the 1987 NFL Draft, 1990 was Ballard's first All-Pro like season of his career at tackle in my opinion.  Ballard was a gigantic man nicknamed "House" Ballard with light feet that kept pass rushers at bay and crushed the opposing defense in the run.

LT- Langstan Walker- acquired via free agency from Oakland in 2006, Walker has been the Bills most consistent Tackle.  Like Ballard, Walker is a consistent pass protector. Walker will need to be a monster in the run to compare them after this year.  Walker will really need to hit his prime this year to even start to compare the  two Tackles.

RT- Will Wolford- Selected by the Buffalo Bills in the 1st round of the 1986 NFL Draft, Wolford was a massive individual that played 12 strong years in the NFL. Wolford's strength was pass protection. The K-gun came to life with great OT play in Buffalo in 1990.

RT- Brad Butler- Selected by the Buffalo Bills in the 5th round of the 2006 NFL Draft, Butler has started two full seasons at Right Guard for the Bills.  Butler played tackle at Virginia during college and looks to resume that role this season at the Pro level.  Butler is a bit undersized for an "ideal" NFL tackle, but protecting the strong side for Edwards takes some of the pressure off of him.  Butler will need to play like a veteran tackle this year to run the no-huddle offense. Both Wolford and Butler possess a mean mentality crucial to a good ground attack.

OG- John Davis- acquired via free agency from Houston in 1989, Davis became a staple in the interior of the line.  Great run blocking skills and a mean streak were his strengths.

OG- Eric Wood- Selected by the Buffalo Bills in the 1st round of the 2009 NFL Draft, Eric Wood assumes the starting role at guard for the Bills this year.  Wood is a large nasty interior lineman.  If Eric Wood is NFL ready, look for the left side of the line to be a developing strength in 2009.

OG- Jim Richter- Selected by the Buffalo Bills in the 1st round of the 1980 NFL Draft, Richter was the Savvy veteran of the Bills offensive Line. Moving into the end of his career, Richter had his best years through the late 80's and into the early 90's.  This is the one area the 2009 Bills O-line lacks: Experience!

OG- Andy Levitre- Selected by the Buffalo Bills in the 2nd round of the 2009 NFL Draft, Levitre assumes a starting role at guard for the Bills this year as well.  While neither Levitre nor Wood have the Experience Richter and Davis had....Experience in the Interior line is not as Prevalent as the skill positions in the Offense.  Both have the athleticism to get up and down the field like Richter and Davis.  Both will need to be franchise type guards this season for the No- Huddle to get off and running.

C- Kent Hull- Signed as an Undrafted Free agent in 1986, Kent Hull was the Centerpiece to the Bills championship offensive line.  Hull was the leader and signal caller in front of Kelly.  Hull was the most reliable lineman and had no weaknesses as an NFL player. Hall of Fame Induction to prove it.

C- Geoff Hangartner- acquired via free agency from Carolina in 2009, Geoff looks to become the new signal caller in Buffalo.  Brought in with rookie guards, Hangartner will have the chance to become the no huddle signal caller at the line.  Built like Hull at 320 pounds Hangartner has experience in this league and was paid for it this year.  I believe if he can read the defenses this year with Edwards the line has a chance to blossom.

Tight End:

TE- Keith McKeller- Selected by the Buffalo Bills in the 9th round of the 1987 NFL Draft, McKeller- had a unique set of skills that lead to the K-Gun being named after him. McKeller caught 44 passes for 464 and 5 TD in 1990.  McKeller could stretch the field or lay down a great run block.  His play alone put pressure on the defense packages to account for him.

TE- Shawn Nelson- Selected by the Buffalo Bills in the 4th round of the 2009 NFL Draft, Nelson will be expected to make an impact in Buffalo immediately.  The No huddle offense depends on great tight end play. While Fine in slated to start this year Nelson possesses the developing skill set to mirror McKeller's TE production in 1990.  This is the second biggest question mark for the No-Huddle offense in 2009.

Wide Receivers:

WR- Andre Reed- Selected by the Buffalo Bills in the 4th round of the 1985 NFL Draft, Andre Reed caught 71 passes for 945 yards and 8 TD in 1990.  Reed was a diamond in the rough draft pick out of Kutztown University of PA.  Reed could cross or stretch the field creating great separation from defenders.  With the addition of James Lofton, Reed saw less double teams and more opportunities. Reed is clearly the best Buffalo Bill receiver of all time.

WR- Lee Evans- selected by the Buffalo Bills in the 1st round of the 2004 Draft, Lee Evans has been the most consistent wide receiver for the Bills.  With lightning speed and great hands Evans is Buffalo's Number one receiver.  This year expect to see more of a Reed type receiver.  Crossing the Middle of the field in space to get open and run after the catch.  With the addition of Owens, Evans constant double coverage by defenses is over, especially in a no-huddle package.         

WR- James Lofton- acquired by the Buffalo Bills via free agency from Los Angeles in 1989, Lofton Brought a deep threat back to Buffalo.  Lofton caught 35 passes for 712 yards and 4 TD with an incredible 20.3 yards per catch average.  Critics claimed Lofton's skills had diminished and he wouldn't be the same receiver in Buffalo.  As the stats tell you he could still run and catch.  Sound familiar? That's right some of the same comments made about the career point for Terrell Owens this year.

WR- Terrell Owens- acquired via free agency from Dallas in 2009, Owens like Lofton is one of the greatest receivers of all time.  Struck with a controversial personality hungry for a Superbowl Owens gives Buffalo that 2 receiver look of the 1990 Bills team.  It is easy to see why the no-huddle can make sense this year and where the comparisons come from.  Owens may be getting older, but if teams elect to double cover Evans once again this year, Owens can't be covered one on one.....Period. 139 career TD. Enough said.

Running Backs:

RB- Thurman Thomas- Selected by the Buffalo Bills in the 2nd round of the 1988 NFL Draft, Thomas has been thought the steal of the 1988 draft.  Thomas recorded 271 carries for 1297 yard and 11 TD in 1990. Thurman also had 40 receptions for 532 yards and 2 TD in 1990. Thurman was the perfect back for the no-huddle offense.  Equipped with good speed, soft hands and a punishing running mental, the Thurminator could do it all folks.  While Thomas wasn't the fastest running back, he could burn the defense in the open field much like our 2009 tailback Lynch.

RB- Marshawn Lynch- Selected by the Buffalo Bills in the 1st round of the 2007 NFL Draft, Marshawn is Buffalo's number one tailback headed into the 2009 season.  Well at least beginning in week 3 anyhow.  Lynch rushed 250 times for 1,036 yards and 8 TD in 2008.  Lynch also caught 47 receptions for 300 yards and 1 TD.  Based on the stats Thomas and Lynch put up similar numbers heading into the prime of their career.  If Lynch finds himself running behind an improved offensive line this year, look for Thomas like numbers out of the backfield. 

RB- Kenneth Davis- acquired via free agency from Green Bay in 1989, Davis was the 2 of the 1-2 punch for the Bills running game.  Davis carried the ball 64 times for 302 yards and 4 TD. Davis also had 9 catches for 78 and 1 TD in 1990.  Davis did most of his damage in the no-huddle offense.  A draw type running back, Davis was big and could stretch the field.  Much like Fred Jackson in Buffalo, when Davis came into the game the Bills didn't lose much talent at the position.

RB- Fred Jackson- acquired from the European League Rhein Fire in 2007 Jackson has solidified the backfield for Buffalo.  Jackson saw a large workload last year as the compliment back to Marshawn Lynch.  Jackson rushed 130 time for 571 yards and 3 TD.   These numbers are similar to Davis especially in Yards per carry with Davis at 4.7 and Jackson at 4.4.  Obviously Davis didn't get as many touches in 1990 as Jackson will in 2009.  Look for this two headed monster to put up better numbers than the 1990 Bills running backs in 2009.  Also important to mention Dominic Rhodes will have a say in production this season as well.  

Quarterbacks:

QB- Jim Kelly- Selected by the Buffalo Bills in the 1st round of the 1983 NFL Draft, Kelly could be the Greatest Buffalo Bills QB of all time.  Kelly had one of his best years in 1990.  Kelly completed 219 (63.3%) for 2, 829 yards, 24 TD and 9 INTs.  Kelly was only sacked 20 times in 1990 behind his previously mentioned outstanding Young offensive line.  I am not going to compare the 1990 Kelly and 2009 Edwards.  It would be silly to do so. It is important however for Bills fans to remember Kelly was not an All- pro over night.  He had a knack for throwing interceptions when things broke down.

QB- Trent Edwards- Selected by the Buffalo Bills in the 3rd round of the 2007 NFL Draft, Edwards is the future of Buffalo (thus far).  Edwards is a smart quarterback with great accuracy.  Edwards does a nice job distributing the ball in the offense.  Clearly Edwards is the biggest question mark heading into 2009.  As Brian always says this is a quarterback's league.  I don't care who is at receiver if Edwards can't run the Helm this year.  Edwards has shown brilliant moments and is certainly smart enough to run a no-huddle offense.  The question is can the offensive line keep him upright.  Also does he have the arm to play in bad weather games in the Northeast of this great country?  Tune into the 2009 version of the no-huddle to see if any of these comparisons pan out! 

     In light of all of the talk surrounding the comparions of the 90's Bills teams and this years squad I decided to take a deeper look player by player.  This is the First part of a two part series that will examine both the offense and defense for the perspective rosters of 1990 and 2009.  On an Early Wednesday morning we'll take a look at the Defensive side of the ball.  When the Bills transitioned into a Championship caliber team, they were good at two things; Scoring points and keep the opposing teams quaterback on the ground.  I will be posting the offensive post next week this time to round up discussion.  Going into the 1990 season the Bills had a middle of the Pack defense capable of excellant games and sub-par games.  Much like the 2008 Bills the defense was beginning to Blossom.  After reading Brian's Article on the percentage of Bills drafted still on the team, it made me recall how the Superbowl teams were built.  As you will find below most of the defensive unit was drafted and molded to the Bills defensive scheme in 1990.  While the defense was never spectacular like the offense, they usually kept the other team from outscoring their offense.  Another obvious thing to point out here is Buffalo Ran a 3-4 defense in 1990.  The 2009 Bills will be manning the 4-3, but player comparisons and skill sets are strikingly similar.  Where the Bills lack in comparison to a pass rush in 1990, they make up for with a much better secondary then in 1990 heading into the 2009 season.  If the offense can make teams come from behind this year the pass rush numbers will go up similar to the 1990 Buffalo Bills.  If your looking for proof the Bills have what it takes this year (On Paper)......look no further!

 Starting Defenses

Defensive Lineman:

 DT- Jeff Wright- Selected out of Central Missouri State in the 8th round of the 1988 NFL Draft, Jeff Wright started all 16 games in 1990 recording 5 sacks for the Bills. Jeff Wright possessed a good combination of pass and run stuffing skills anchoring the 3-4.

 DT- Marcus Stroud- acquired via trade from the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2008, Stroud recorded 2.5 sacks in 2008 and possesses a better combination of the above mentioned skills of Wright.                                                                  DT- Kyle Williams- Selected out of LSU in the 5th round of the 2006 NFL Draft, Williams recorded 2 sacks in 2008 and possesses good run stuffing skills, but needs work in the pass rushing department.  Combined the tackles matched Wright's total in 1990.

 DE- Bruce Smith- Selected out of Virginia Tech in the 1st round of the 1985 NFL Draft, Bruce Smith started all 16 games in 1990 recording 19 sacks for the Bills.

 DE- Aaron Maybin- Selected out of Penn State in the 1st round of the 2009 NFL Draft, Aaron Maybin will begin is first year in the NFL this upcoming season.  Maybin Possesses the raw speed off the edge Bruce had, but will need to Bulk up to become a game changing DE.  If Maybin puts up half of 19 (9.5) in 2008 look for a strong pass rush once again in Buffalo.

 DE- Leon Seals- Selected out of Jackson State in the 4th round of the 1987 NFL Draft, Leon Seals started all 16 games in 1990 recording 4 sacks and 1 Interception for the Bills.

 DE- Aaron Schobel- Selected out of Texas Christian in the 2nd round of the 2001 NFL Draft, Schobel recorded 1 sack in 2008 due to an injury shortened season.  Schobel almost mirrors Seals in physique and skill set, but Aaron should be rested this year and ready for one last run in Buffalo.  Look for a healthy Schobel to at least Double Seals numbers with Maybin on the other side this season in pass rushing downs.

 Linebackers:

 *LB- Carlton Bailey- Selected out of North Carolina in the 9th round of the 1988 NFL Draft, Carlton Bailey started 6 games in 1990 recording 2 sacks for the Bills.                                                                                                                               *LB- Ray Bentley- an Undrafted Free Agent in 1986, Ray Bentley started 9 games in 1990 recording 1 interception for the Bills.

 LB- Keith Ellison- Selected out of Oregon State in the 6th round of the 2006 NFL Draft, Ellison will be moving into Second full year as a starter.  There is no Lock Ellison will be the starter, but he is on paper at this point in the Year.  Bailey and Bentley weren't the game changing linebackers in the Bills defense, but mainly relied on for gap pressure and tackling which fits Ellison's strengths.  Anything else is being hopeful.

 LB- Shane Conlan- Selected out of Penn State in the 1st round of the 1987 NFL Draft, Shane Conlan started all 16 games in 1990 recording 1 sacks for the Bills.

 LB- Paul Posluszny- Selected out of Penn State in the 2nd Round of the 2007 NFL Draft, Posluszny recorded 1 sack in 2008 while leading the Bills in tackles.  When looking at the two rosters, these two players are basically the same linebacker of two different decades.  Both Breeded from Happy Valley and outstanding run stopping Linebackers.  Both were and are weak in man to man coverage, but formidable in zone packages.

 LB- Cornelius Bennett- Selected out of Alabama in the 1st round of the 1987 NFL Draft by the Indianapolis Colts (Acquired via trade), Cornelius Bennett started all 16 games in 1990 recording 4 sacks for the Bills.                         LB-Darryl Talley- Selected out of West Virginia in the 2nd round of the 1983 NFL Draft, Darryl Talley started all 16 games in 1990 recording 4 sacks, 2 Interceptions (1 for TD) for the Bills.

 LB- Kawika Mitchell- acquired via free agency in 2008, Kawika recorded 4 sacks and 2 interceptions in 2008.  I truly believe there will never be two linebackers like Talley and Bennett in Buffalo again.  Both were outstanding Blitz linebackers.  They also played the run and pass at a high level.  Mitchell best fits the standards set by these two linebackers and will need to carry the playmaking load at linebacker once again for the 2009 Bills.  He also needs to avoid disappearing for weeks at a time as well.

 Secondary:

 *CB- Kirby Jackson- acquired Via Free agency in 1988, Kirby Jackson started 11 games in 1990 recording 3 interceptions for the Bills.                                                                                                                                                             *CB- James Williams- Selected out of Fresno State in the 1st round of the 1990 NFL Draft, James Williams started 5 games in 1990 recording 2 interceptions for the Bills.

 CB- Leodis McKelvin- Selected out of Troy in the 1st round of the 2008 Draft, Leodis McKelvin recorded 2 interceptions (1 for TD) in 2008.  McKelvin is a dynamic player in more than one area of the field.  Much like Williams the Bills have high expectations for him this year.  He has to play better than Williams for the Bills secondary to be legitimate this season.

 CB- Nate Odomes- Selected out of Wisconsin in the 2nd round of the 1987 NFL Draft, Nate Odomes started all 16 games in 1990 recording 1 interception for the Bills.

 CB- Terrance McGee- Selected out of Northwestern State in the 4th round of the 2003 NFL Draft, McGee recorded 3 interceptions in 2008.  McGee is Buffalo's most experienced and gritty corner. Much like Odomes he possesses great man-to- man coverage skills.  McGee is not as physical as Odomes, but can lay a hit when needed. Look for McGee to benefit most from a revamped pass rush in 2009.

 *S- John Hagy- Selected out of Texas in the 8th round of the 1988 NFL Draft, John Hagy started 11 games in 1990 recording 2 interception for the Bills.                                                                                                                                            *S- Mark Kelso- acquired via Free agency in 1986, Mark Kelso started 5 games in 1990 recording 2 interceptions.

 S- Donte Whitner- Selected out of Ohio State in the 1st round of the 2006 NFL Draft, Donte Whitner had a mediocre season in 2008.  Whitner missed a few games with a shoulder injury in 2008.  Swtiching to FS, Whitner needs to find the ball savvy skills that made a name for Kelso in the NFL this season.

 S- Leonard Smith- Selected out of Jackson State in the 4th round of the 1987 NFL Draft, Leon Smith started all 16 games in 1990 recording 4 sacks and 1 interception for the Bills.

 S- Bryan Scott- acquired via free agency mid-season in 2007, Scott became an impact player for the Bills in 2008 taking over for Ko Simpson.  Scott recorded 1 sack for the Bills in 2008.  Leon Smith was the 8th man in the Box for the Bills.  Like Smith Scott possesses good man coverage skills, but lacks awareness in deep field coverage.  Look for Scott to spend more time in the film room this off-season or find a new home in 2010.

 *players spilt starts

 To the comments!! V

Well the 2009 NFL Draft is over with the Exception of undrafted rookie free agents.  Where the Bills make out with these pick-ups will be unknown until final roster cuts, so why speculate any further.  We can now move on about the players we have and stop sobbing over issues like “I can’t believe we passed on Everette Brown at 42”…”why would they pass on Orakpo”…blah, blah, blah. 31 other teams did as well.  I was not a fan of pick 42 myself because of the value, not the player.  I believe in taking as close to sure bets in the first two rounds as possible, but Byrd is something OBD has been after for years.  From here I am going to address some positions and issues unaddressed in the off-season (THUS FAR) and why.

The first issue to be addressed is DE.  We grabbed the most explosive past rusher in this year’s draft class.  Aaron Maybin has had to work hard his entire life and will continue to do so for the Bills.  In case you haven’t noticed we haven’t taken a big name player from Texas since Mike Williams, which answers the question about orakpo in my opinion.  Now for all Purposes people Chris Kelsey will be starting at LE for the Bills in 2009.  I have posted before on my disgust for his performance last year, so it is known I am not a fan of this.  There are only two scenarios where he gets cut from the bills.  I refuse to mention trade because that just makes me laugh.  Until OBD adds a Veteran capable of playing at the same level or better of Kelsey he will be our starter.  Or Chris Ellis has an incredible summer and we confidently let him go during the preseason outings.  Before that the Bills just do not have enough depth without him. 

The first position to be addressed is DT.  I am extremely happy OBD did not reach to get a DT in the draft and stuck to Interior Lineman.  We secured our DT rotation last off-season.  With that said I believe we have acquired a new DT anyhow.  Many of you are not riding the John Mcargo bandwagon and for good reason.  When the Bills moved up to draft him they knew he was very young.  Mcargo left college early to support his family.  After three years of maturity and a new defensive line coach to inspire him, I expect immediate impact this season.  Mcargo has steadily gotten bigger and stronger in three years and provides a better pass rush than Kyle Williams. I love Williams for run support, but its time to see #99 and #97 crushing the middle of the pocket.  We also signed proven veterans that play his position since he was drafted in Larry Triplett and the trade for Stroud.  With Spencer Johnson’s average performances last season expect Mcargo to be seen and felt this season. 

The second issue yet to be addressed is actually the Special Teams Unit.  Roscoe Parrish is still the Buffalo Bill’s Punt Returner.  I was happy to see he was not given away for some 5th round draft pick.  There weren’t any players the Bills were in love with after Nelson to move Parrish in a panic.  Besides, trading the Best Punt Returner in the NFL for a rookie fill player is like taking one beautiful woman to dinner instead of two, because dinner will cost you more money.  This just makes sense to me.  Although it is possible Parrish could be moved during the upcoming summer, but I highly doubt it.  If the Bills are to downsize a WR it will be Justin Jenkins.  Mad about the last two picks in the draft?!  Well you shouldn’t be.  Greer is in black and gold now, along with his excellent ST play when needed.  Youboty hasn’t lasted more than 6-8 weeks or so in any season since he was drafted.  Florence replaced Greer, but it not noted for his ST skills.  Jenkins has been the Bills best gunner since Sam Aiken and Andre Davis left town.  If he is cut he will need a replacement.  I am not saying it will be one of the last two picks, but the guy who replaces Jenkins could be replaced by one of them if you know what I mean!

Another position unaddressed in the off-season was LB.  Before the sudden release of T.O from Dallas, a slew of veteran starting LBs visited OBD.  Names like Mike Peterson, Cato June, Freddy Kieaho, and others toured the facilities with the Bills highly interested.  Once T.O was available and then signed those names faded out of the doors at OBD because of cap space (big thanks to Peters and his agent for that!).  I realize we signed Pat Thomas at a good price and drafted a project LB in Harris, but these two aren’t immediate Fills like T.O is.  The Bills have all of their LBs under contract for a few years to come.  I have seen some speculation on Leroy Hill, but that won’t happen.  There just is not enough money unless Kelsey goes and I explained why that won’t happen just yet.  Digiorgio is back healthy this season and provides immediate depth at Middle and Sam linebacker positions.  Ellison was been a decent LB for us and will continue to do so.  Our defense was ranked 14th last year, and as long as Poz and Ellison get smarter on the field that number will improve without adding a Veteran LB. Stop doubting it and start to BILLieve!

The final position/ issue are obviously Safety.  Buffalo did draft Jarius Byrd to be TRIED out at safety. This does not mean we drafted our next safety.  No reason to get excited yet.  Although if the staff can convert George Wilson I do have expectations for Byrd by the middle of this season!  And now a quick comment about Whitner (our only guaranteed starter at safety).  He was the Bills #9 draft choice.  He has amassed an amazing 2…yes 2 interceptions in three seasons for the Bills.  While he is a secondary smasher and great in run support its time to get a big play return from him.  I believe if he gets a shot at FS his numbers have to double interception wise this season.  For you fans that follow the Bills occasionally you may not know much about Bryan Scott.  I feel he was terrific last season.  Fantastic in run support and our best 1 on 1 man coverage safety.  If he hits the film room to improve his over the top coverage skills this summer we could have a very nice combo of safeties without signing anyone!  Why is Ko Simpson still a Bill?!?  I don’t even consider him on the team at this point in my mind…..

Those are my thoughts on a few areas still concerned by Bills fans and why you shouldn’t worry so much.  You don’t have to agree, but simply consider the options logically for 2009.  And to round this up: can anyone remember the last time the Bills received a good rating after a draft by the football universe?!?!  I

Well Day one has concluded and literally destroyed most of the research posted by this great staff and fellow fans such as myself.

Pick 11-Maybin, DE Penn State University.  I like the Homerun type DE in this draft, but we need Every down Left Defensive end bad.  This guy weighs 236 pounds and is bread at Right DE.  If you think he will ever see the field on any down before 3rd you do not watch enough football (expect the Patriots games who are in shotgun 70% of the time).  I am not angry at the Pick but I still Believe Ayers was the Play now DE in this draft.  Enjoy Denver!

Pick 28- Wood, C Lousiville.  I love this pick.  I have posted before that it was time to draft a franchise type G/C and we did.  He is an immediate Starter for us and should take some pressure off of the tacklle next to him this year.

Pick 42- Byrd, CB Oregon.  I have to say I am schocked.  This was considered the Last position that we needed in this year's draft even after WR!  I will say buffalo is famous for drafting excellant special teamers and thats is the only place he will see the field this year.  This is a TERRIBLE pick here.  I did realize we would draft DB eventually but pick 42?  Mckelvin and Mcgee are locked for starting corners in 2009.  The addition of Drayton Florence replaces Greer at a cheaper price.  Not to Mention a healthy Youboty could start for us as well.  Reggie Corner was drafted last year for depth.....so we just cut him?  

OT, TE, OLB, FS, SS, DT have yet to be addressed.  I am not going to pre-jude and say the Bills will not move up at all this year, because based on the looks of this pick  Roscoe is being delt to get back into the top of the Third round to salvage an OT pick that slides to the Bills. 

If you have a bone in your body that says I am okay with this pick, you do not follow the Buffalo Bills Closely enough.

Our hopes for Playoff Contention may have went out the window without drafting at least competiton for a starting position this year ie OLB, OT, TE...not the third best Punt returner on the team/ prevent DB.....as if we are ever that far ahead in games?????

Day one gets a grade of C maximum.....major risks here people!  Let me know your thoughts

Hello fellow fans.  This being my first fanpost I think I need to address this mock draft frenzy!  I am a fan of Brian and Rich's mock drafts, but as for the others I am left confused.  For years now when the Bills address free agency they sign players that are garunteed to contribute on the field opening day.  The Jason Peters trade has everyone in a panic for OT in this year's draft.  Have we all forgotten that the same situation came to foruition last year?  If we were lucky enough to land andre smith at 11 it would not be a bad pick, but I do not see Jaroun putting a rookie of any sort on Edwards backside this season.  Walker WILL move to right tackle again this year, leaving us to fill in his strong side of the field. I believe that this scenario leads us in another direction in this year's first round. Right OT can be grabbed in rounds 3-5.

I have long been waiting the dismissal of Chris Kelsey.  Lets face it he was terrible last year.  3 sacks (all in one game) which means he found one bum who he could finally beat during the season (aka Joe Staley).  I record all of the Bills games and felt compelled to bring up an unorthodox stat.  Kelsey has consistently fell for the Qb rollout worse than any De I have ever seen.  I went back through the tapes ( thats right folks seems crazy but I did) and found him with his pants down 33 times last season.  This is because he is so hungry to get a free sack or tackle that his football IQ disappears.  Not to mention he is extremely slow.  Of those 33 plays 28 of them were a gain and 23 were first downs!  I laugh at the notion of him being traded but I like Tampa to take the bait in their rebuild mode. 

I have seen comments like trading youbouty? or him starting at nickelback?  Neither is happening folks.  He was a stud when healthy last year.  Drayton Florence is a Bill. Did we all forget that? He is a lock for the Nickel.

All this wind swirls around Pettigrew.  I love the Prospect, but knowing Schonert and the WR corps we have now, we might run the ball 15 times a game.  Blocking TE can be gotten in the middle of the draft.

With all of this said, pick 11 must be DE or OLB.  I love ayers for his versatility. Not to mention I think the contract won't be as big with a DE at this pick as OT. Just a Hunch.

Matthews Jr. is High among the rumblings community, but we did sign Pat Thomas.  Not a Household name, but hes got incredible upside and is double the athlete of Ellison.  Not to mention there must be a reason we kept our fifth round pick from last year around: Alvin Bowen.

If the Bills are to contend for the division this year, DE at 11 and Interior lineman at 28 or 42 is a must (my favorite Unger! Unger! Unger!).  I love that name. 

Besides, when is the last time we drafted a franchise guard?  Ruben Brown ring a bell?   

Roscoe Parrish.  Their are too many scenarios here to speculate where he ends up, but it will give us another pick.  The last time we were loaded with picks (mcgahee and spikes trades) we used them to move up and get someone in a panic. I see this happening again this year, although it is different management.

I am dying to here your comments, please enlighten me to another route?