Inside The Bills

Merriman visiting doctor

There was a good reason for veteran DE Shawne Merriman missing Day 1 of OTAs at One Bills Drive Tuesday.

The workouts are voluntary, but head coach Chan Gailey explained why Merriman was absent.

“He was gone today,” said Gailey following Tuesday’s practice. ”Today was the only day he could get final clearance with the doctors and stuff.”

Merriman, who is coming off Achilles surgery, is expected to participate in some capacity in OTAs. Gailey believes he stands a good chance of being on the field as early as Thursday for Day 2 of OTAs.

“I think so,” said Gailey. ”We’ll have to see what the doctors say.”