–Bills RB C.J. Spiller will host his 2013 Football and Life Skills camp today and tomorrow at Clemson University. The C.J. Spiller Football and Life Skills camp strives to develop athletes that are mentally, physically, spiritually and socially grounded. Campers will receive one-on-one and group instruction from former and current superstars. Areas of instruction include football skills, fitness & conditioning, health & nutrition, academic achievement and life lessons.

–The Buffalo Bills announced the promotion of Doug Whaley to General Manager yesterday. In addition, the team hired Jim Monos as Director of Player Personnel and Kelvin Fisher as Director of College Scouting. The team also promoted C.J. Leak to College Area Scout and Pete Harris to BLESTO Scout. Chuck Cook will now serve as a National Scout and Doug Majeski will add National Cross Checker to his Coordinator of College Scouting title.

–Buffalo Bills season ticket holders have early access to purchase additional individual game tickets. Details for season ticket holders can be found here.

–The Bills will hold three of their 10 voluntary Organized Team Activities next week at One Bills Drive.

–Fifty Yard Finish: On Saturday, June 29, participants can take part in a half marathon, 5k or kids 1-mile run that will begin at Ralph Wilson Stadium, continue through the village and town of Orchard Park and finish at the 50 yard line on the field. Follow along with buffalobills.com journalist Hannah Buehler as she trains with Bills Strength and Conditioning Coach Dan Liburd for the race. Details can be found here: Fifty Yard Finish Details

TODAY’S INTERVIEWS

7:30 AM – Russ Brandon – The Howard Simon Show (WGR 550 – Buffalo)

7:40 AM – Doug Whaley – Brady and Lang (Sportsnet 590 The Fan – Toronto)

8:00 AM – Doug Whaley – Janet & Nick in the Morning (Kiss 98.5 – Buffalo)

8:00 AM – WR T.J. Graham – WingingIt (CW23 – Buffalo)

8:40 AM – Doug Whaley – The Break Room (96.5 WCMF – Rochester)

QUOTES OF THE DAY

Russ Brandon, Bills President and CEO, on what makes Doug Whaley right for the GM role:
“He deserves this opportunity. I have watched him work very closely for the last three and a half years. I have known Doug for pretty much my entire career through the fraternity of the NFL… Doug has every quality you look for in a leader. He has great work ethic, he is tireless at work, he is one of the most humble guys I have ever met and everything is about us. It is about us. He has been in the trenches. He has been scouting his entire career on the pro and the college side. I have never heard an individual in this league say one negative word about Doug Whaley. He is the perfect guy to lead this organization and lead our football operation. I do not know of a guy that is more deserving of this opportunity than Doug Whaley.” 

Doug Whaley, Buffalo Bills General Manager, on changing a franchise that has not been to the playoffs in 13 years:
“It’s an organizational focus and our main goal is to give the fans of the Buffalo Bills a team that consistently competes for championships.”

Whaley on if he thought he would ever become an NFL GM and why he’s stayed in Buffalo:
“You always hope. But I knew that if I worked hard and did the best I could eventually you pray that something like this would happen to you. But in this business there’s nothing given to you and there’s no 100-percent guarantee. I stayed here for many reasons, but I committed myself to Russ and Buddy when they hired me. I like to see things through and I’m a competitor.”

Whaley on why he is the right man for the job and what fans can expect from him:
“It is not about me. It is about us and it is about this organization. From Russ instilling in the organization that this is a shared common goal to put this organization back where it is supposed to be, us competing consistently for championships—I buy into it and that is my philosophy. That is why I think we will all work well together.”

 PHOTO OF THE DAY

Bills General Manager Doug Whaley (center) stands with team President and CEO Russ Brandon (left) and Head Coach Doug Marrone (right) outside the team’s facility following yesterday’s press conference.

DAILY LINKS

Buffalo News-Commencement day at One Bills Drive

Buffalo News-Whaley brings new perspective to reconstruction

Buffalo News-Whaley adds talent evaluators in Monos, Fisher

Rochester D&C-Buffalo Bills name Doug Whaley general manager

Associated Press-Bills promote Whaley to take over as GM

Toronto Sun-New GM Doug Whaley ‘won’t limit’ himself in upgrading Bills

USA Today-Bell: New Bills GM Doug Whaley left Wall Street for NFL

Bloomberg-Wall Street Internships Offer NFL Players Option When Game Ends

NFL.com-EJ Manuel, Geno Smith among criticized rookies primed to shine

BuffaloBills.com-Whaley preaching hard work, accountability

BuffaloBills.com-Doug Whaley named Bills general manager

BuffaloBills.com-What they’re saying about Doug Whaley

BuffaloBills.com-Bills add pair to personnel department

BuffaloBills.com-Doug Whaley: ”Consistently compete for championships. That’s our goal.”

Audio/Video/Photo Clip

BuffaloBills.com
Bills Focus: Doug Whaley on Becoming GM
Doug Whaley Introduced as Bills GM
50 Yard Finish: Creating Resistance
The John Murphy Show May 16
Steve Tasker: Bills Front Office Has Experience
Ruben Brown Says Whaley Was Always a Leader
Doug Whaley Wants to Make the Bills Contenders

WGR 550
Bills announce Doug Whaley as GM
Buying Time

NFL.com
Doug Whaley named Bills general manager
Doug Whaley’s vision for Buffalo Bills’ future

WIVB
Bills promote Whaley to General Manager

WKBW
Bills Announce Personnel Hirings and Changes
What League Colleagues Are Saying About New GM Doug Whaley
Doug Whaley Officially Announced as New Bills GM

WGRZ
Bills Promote Whaley to General Manager

WHAM
Whaley Named Bills General Manager

WROC
Whaley Promoted To Bills GM

YNN
Whaley takes over as Bills’ GM

Additional Clips

Inside The Bills
Whaley on EJ’s chances to start, Whaley has “an aggressive eye”, Whaley was “oustanding player” according to Ruben, Getting to know Doug Whaley, Bills have youngest front office trio, Whaley on how he’ll handle Byrd situation

Press Coverage (Buffalo News)
Video: Gleason, Gaughan on Whaley’s appointment as GM
A look back at Bills GM history
Jairus Byrd’s contract an immediate issue for Doug Whaley
On first day, Doug Whaley makes changes to football operations
Bill Cowher: Doug Whaley ‘can equal challenge, then surpass it’
Doug Whaley to be introduced as Bills GM this morning

Around the League (NFL.com)
Doug Whaley named general manager of Buffalo Bills
Top 5 defensive tackle tandems in the NFL

The Sports Network
Bills elevate Whaley to GM position

The Sports Xchange
For Bills, Whaley was obvious GM-in-waiting

ESPN AFC East Blog
Whaley wants Bills to be ‘Beasts of the East’
Bills officially promote Doug Whaley as GM

Pro Football Talk
With Whaley, Bills now have youngest front office in NFL
New Bills G.M. Doug Whaley: Don’t accept losing

Kryk Slants
New Bills GM Whaley won’t ‘limit himself’ in upgrading club’s roster talent

Buffalo Rumblings
Doug Whaley named Buffalo Bills’ new General Manager
Buffalo Bills’ off-season includes front office overhaul, new stadium lease

SportsNOLA.com
Saints scout Jim Monos headed to Buffalo

RealGM.com
Doug Whaley Named Bills’ GM, First Minority Hire Of Offseason

Shutdown Corner (Yahoo! Sports)
Doug Whaley named general manager of the Buffalo Bills

ESPN Insider
New GM, new deal for Jairus?

–The Buffalo Bills announced the signing of one of the team’s second-round draft selections (46^th overall) LB Kiko Alonso yesterday. Alonso becomes the sixth of the team’s right 2013 draft choices to sign with the team.

–Buffalo Bills season ticket holders have early access to purchase additional individual game tickets. Details for season ticket holders can be found here.

–Fifty Yard Finish: On Saturday, June 29, participants can take part in a half marathon, 5k or kids 1-mile run that will begin at Ralph Wilson Stadium, continue through the village and town of Orchard Park and finish at the 50 yard line on the field. Follow along with buffalobills.com journalist Hannah Buehler as she trains with Bills Strength and Conditioning Coach Dan Liburd for the race. Details can be found here: Fifty Yard Finish Details

 QUOTES OF THE DAY ABOUT DOUG WHALEY
RUSS BRANDON, Bills President and CEO
“It is with great pleasure to name Doug Whaley to the position of General Manager today. Doug has been involved in every level of player personnel throughout his career and he will lead our efforts in reestablishing a winning tradition for this organization and our great fans. Doug is a passionate and committed leader who will work tirelessly with his department to build a team our fans and all of Western New York will be proud of heading into the future.”

BILL COWHER, CBS Sports NFL Analyst and former Pittsburgh Steelers Head Coach (1996-06)
“Doug Whaley to me has “paid his dues.” He has done his job professionally and with high-quality. I know from working with him in Pittsburgh he is a guy who put due diligence towards every opportunity and task he was given. He has a wealth of knowledge, a good feel for people and a good eye for talent.”

KEVIN COLBERT, Pittsburgh Steelers General Manager
“Doug will be a great general manager for the Buffalo Bills. In our time together in Pittsburgh he displayed great knowledge, work ethic, loyalty and the ability to work with others in the pursuit of a common goal.”

 PHOTO OF THE DAY

Newly named Bills General Manager Doug Whaley (left) observes yesterday’s OTA session on the grass field at One Bills Drive with Head Coach Doug Marrone.

DAILY LINKS

Buffalo News-Bills hope Hughes can fill a void

Associated Press-Bills sign 2nd-round draft pick, LB Alonso

BuffaloBills.com-A History of Bills General Managers

BuffaloBills.com-LB Kiko Alonso signs rookie deal with Bills

BuffaloBills.com-OTA Practice Notes – Day 3

Audio/Video/Photo Clip

BuffaloBills.com
Bills Roundup: Wednesday’s OTA News and Notes
Stevie Johnson on Young Receivers
The John Murphy Show May 15
Tarvaris Jackson Says He Felt Like a Jill 

WGR 550
Bills Spiller excited about up tempo offense
Wood and Bills have mutual interest in new deal
Bills sign LB Alonso to rookie deal

NFL.com
Buffalo Bills QB competition

 WIVB
Bills sign 2nd round pick Alonso
Williams ranks as top earning athlete

 WKBW
Bills sign Kiko Alonso to rookie deal

 WGRZ
Bills sign 2nd-round draft pick, LB Alonso 

WHAM
Bills sign 2nd-round draft pick, LB Alonso

YNN
Bills put first week of OTA’s in the books

 Additional Clips

Inside The Bills
Anderson glad to be back practicing, Kick return candidates, Strained back keeping Stevie on the shelf, Chandler verifies Manuel’s arm

Press Coverage (Buffalo News)
Kiko Alonso becomes sixth draft pick to sign with Bills
Mario Williams ranks 18th on SI’s highest-paid-athletes list
Stevie Johnson eager to start building chemistry with his QBs
Bills give their 3-4 front reps
Poll: Who is the most indispensiBill?

 ESPN AFC East Blog
Bills sign second-round pick Kiko Alonso

 The Sports Network
Bills sign second-round pick Alonso

 The Sports Xchange
Bills sign second-round pick

 Pro Football Talk
Stevie Johnson sidelined by back injury
Bills sign second-round pick Kiko Alonso

 Buffalo Rumblings
Kiko Alonso signs rookie contract with Buffalo Bills
NFL rule means several Buffalo Bills rookies miss OTAs

AFC East Daily
Stevie has taken notice of Bills’ speedy additions

–Buffalo Bills season ticket holders will have early access to purchase additional individual game tickets beginning today. Details for season ticket holders can be found here.

–The Bills will hold voluntary Organized Team Activities this week at One Bills Drive.

–Fifty Yard Finish: On Saturday, June 29, participants can take part in a half marathon, 5k or kids 1-mile run that will begin at Ralph Wilson Stadium, continue through the village and town of Orchard Park and finish at the 50 yard line on the field. Follow along with buffalobills.com journalist Hannah Buehler as she trains with Bills Strength and Conditioning Coach Dan Liburd for the race. Details can be found here: Fifty Yard Finish Details

TODAY’S INTERVIEWS
7:30 AM – RB C.J. Spiller – The Howard Simons Show (WGR 550 – Buffalo) Listen Here

4:00 PM – RB C.J. Spiller – NFL Live (ESPN)

QUOTE OF THE DAY
DE Mario Williams on what it means to “Play like a Bill”:
“It’s just being relentless and the mentality of going out, being disruptive and attacking. Being aggressive. Being accountable. Just going out here and making plays. Trusting the scheme. Trusting the system. Trusting the coaches. To not go out there and do something you’re not supposed to because like I said the scheme they have is pretty good. As long as we go out there and we all can say are you playing like you’re supposed to – playing like a Bill – which is our mentality and motto – we’ll be alright.” 

PHOTO OF THE DAY

Bills WR Marcus Easley with is former high school football coach Craig Bruno. Easley was inducted into his high school’s Athletics Hall of Fame during the 21^st annual Bunnell High School Athletics Hall of Fame & Senior Athlete Recognition Banquet in Stratford, Connecticut this past weekend.

DAILY LINKS

Buffalo News-Bills think young corners have it covered

Rochester D&C-Buddy Nix’s legacy remains incomplete

Associated Press-Buffalo Bills claim TE Mickey Shuler off waivers

Syracuse Post-Standard-Doug Marrone will shape the legacy of two Buffalo Bills general managers

Beckley Register Herald-Former WVU star Talley successful business owner

BuffaloBills.com-TE Mickey Shuler signed by Bills, WR Norrell waived

BuffaloBills.com-OTA Practice Notes – Day 2

BuffaloBills.com-Burroughs pupil Kearney hoping to stick with Bills

BuffaloBills.com-Marrone on competition: ”It starts as soon as people are acquired”

BuffaloBills.com-Kevin Kolb: ”Everybody’s ready to prove something”

BuffaloBills.com-EJ Manuel: ”The biggest thing is leading by example”

Audio/Video/Photo Clip

BuffaloBills.com
Bills Roundup: Tuesday’s OTA News and Notes
Doug Marrone Press Conference
Tarvaris Jackson Press Conference
EJ Manuel Press Conference
Kevin Kolb Press Conference
The John Murphy Show May 14
Duke Williams Talks About The Bills’ Energy
Mickey Shuler is a Well-Rounded Tight End

 WGR 550
Byrd among 10 Bills absent from OTAs
Bills’ QB competition takes shape
Bills claim TE Mickey Shuler

 NFL.com
Bills’ front office in transition

 WIVB
QB competition the focus at Bills OTA’s
Bills claim TE Schuler off waivers

 WGRZ
Bills QB Competition Well Underway
Bills Claim TE Shuler

 WHAM
Quarterback Competition Underway In Buffalo

 Additional Clips

Inside The Bills
Burroughs helping Kearney with lay of land, New Bills TE hopes to be “all purpose”, Shuler excited about a fresh start with Bills, Marrone: No timetable on naming starting QB, Graham: I feel faster this year, Easley inducted into HS Hall of Fame, Rookies missing for school, Stevie a spectator

Press Coverage (Buffalo News)
Doug Whaley’s ascension should end NFL’s 2013 minority shutout
Bills claim TE Mickey Shuler off waivers
Video: Gaughan, Graham & Skurski from today’s Bills OTA
Mario Williams explains what being a Bill is supposed to mean
Audio: Buddy Nix banter with Shredd & Ragan
For 2013 Bills, there are first-timers for everything

 ESPN AFC East Blog
Mario Williams still strikes fear in foes
Hope and Concern: Buffalo Bills

 The Sports Xchange
Bills pick up TE Shuler

 Around the League (NFL.com)
Tarvaris Jackson leads Buffalo Bills QBs to start OTAs

 Pro Football Talk
Bills awarded TE Mickey Shuler on waivers
Doug Marrone: I’ll pick a QB when one pulls away from the rest
Tarvaris Jackson gets the first snaps for Bills

 Buffalo Rumblings
Buffalo Bills sign Mickey Shuler, waive Kevin Norrell
Doug Marrone: Buffalo Bills offensive line losing weight
Buffalo Bills OTAs: Doug Marrone rotating quarterbacks for now

 AFC East Daily
E.J. Manuel’s presence ‘doesn’t scare’ Kevin Kolb

–Bills RB Fred Jackson will be a celebrity judge this evening at BAND Against Bullying at the Center of the Arts on the campus of UB North. BAND Against Bullying seeks to raise community awareness of bullying related issues and challenges and to raise support of anti-bullying legislation, education, and other related efforts, through an inter-school arts competition related to the theme of DIGNITY.

–Buffalo Bills season ticket holders will have early access to purchase additional individual game tickets beginning Wednesday. Details for season ticket holders can be found here.

–The Bills will hold voluntary Organized Team Activities this week at One Bills Drive.

TODAY’S INTERVIEWS

7:30 AM – Eric Wood – The Howard Simon Show (WGR 550 – Buffalo) Listen Here

7:55 AM – Arthur Moats – The Break Room (96.5 WCMF – Rochester)

8:30 AM – Buddy Nix – The Howard Simon Show (WGR 550 – Buffalo) Listen Here

PHOTO OF THE DAY

Buddy Nix spoke with the media at One Bills Drive yesterday afternoon following the announcement of his transition to Special Assistant.

QUOTE OF THE DAY
BILLS SPECIAL ASSISTANT BUDDY NIX ON TRANSITIONING FROM GENERAL MANAGER:
“I’ve made this decision to step away from the General Manager’s position because I feel it is the right time. By the ‘right time’ I mean I think we have a good young roster, an excellent head coach with a good staff, and it’s time to let someone else handle these responsibilities and move forward together.

Timing is the main thing, but there are other benefits as well. This job is very demanding with a 24-7 schedule of responsibilities. This new position will enable me to spend more time with my family. I appreciate the opportunity given to me by Mr. Wilson and Russ and I’m fortunate to step away from the job and still remain a part of the team. I feel strongly that the team is on the right course for success.

We have some excellent talent on our team and Coach Marrone and his staff are doing a terrific job in leading and teaching the players we have on our roster. I was very impressed with the 24 rookies we had in this past weekend and I’m very excited about the upcoming season. I think this is going to be an exciting time for our team and our fans.”

 DAILY LINKS

Buffalo News-Nix says time right to step down  

Buffalo News-Bills, Sabres: A tradition unlike any other

Rochester D&C-Buffalo Bills’ Buddy Nix: ‘Right time’ to step down as GM

Associated Press-Buddy Nix steps down as Bills GM

Yahoo! Sports-Buddy Nix resigns as general manager of Buffalo Bills

NFL.com-Buddy Nix resigns as general manager of Buffalo Bills

USA Today-Buddy Nix steps down as Bills general manager

Toronto Sun-Buddy Nix steps down as Buffalo Bills GM

BuffaloBills.com-Bills Season Ticket Holders Get Early Access to Individual Game Tickets

BuffaloBills.com-OTA Practice Notes – Day 1

BuffaloBills.com-Nix a straight shooter in eyes of Bills players

BuffaloBills.com-Buddy Nix transitions out of GM role with Bills

BuffaloBills.com-Buddy Nix: “I think it is the right time”

BuffaloBills.com-Russ Brandon on GM post: “We have a plan”

Audio/Video/Photo Clip

BuffaloBills.com
Buddy Nix Press Conference
EJ Manuel hits the field
Bills Roundup: Nix Steps Down, OTA Highlights
Bills Focus: Buddy Nix on his time with the Bills
The John Murphy Show May 13
Nigel Bradham Says Bills Defense Will Be Elite
Buddy Nix on Stepping Down as G.M.

 WGR 550
Bills analytics department update
Nix steps down as Bills GM

 NFL.com
Buffalo Bills GM Buddy Nix to step down
EJ Manuel hits the field

 WIVB
Buddy Nix steps down from role as GM

 WKBW
Buddy Nix Steps Down as General Manager
Nix and Brandon On Resignation as General Manager

 WGRZ
Buffalo Bills Buddy Nix Steps Down as GM

 WHAM
Buddy Nix Stepping Down As Bills GM

 WHEC
Bills GM Buddy Nix will step away from his role as GM

 YNN
Buddy Nix Confident About Trajectory of Young Bills Team

 Additional Clips

Inside The Bills
Bills on the radio, Nix believes he saw things through, Buddy on what changed, K. Williams receives Ed Block Courage Award, Scouting calendar told Nix it was time, What Buddy said about Whaley

Press Coverage (Buffalo News)
Video: Graham & Gaughan on Nix’s resignation & legacy
Video: Highlights from Nix’s news conference
Looking back: Buddy Nix’s five biggest misses as Bills GM
Looking back: Buddy Nix’s five biggest hits as Bills GM
Buddy Nix: ‘I feel it is the right time’ to step down as GM
Buddy Nix steps down as Bills GM; Doug Whaley expected to take over 

Pro Football Talk
Buddy Nix steps down as Bills G.M.
For quarterbacks, no one knows if they can do it until they do it

Around the League (NFL.com)
Buddy Nix realized he lacked energy to be Bills’ GM

 ESPN AFC East Blog
Buddy Nix’s legacy with Bills up in the air
Bills Tarvaris Jackson takes first-team reps

ESPN NFL Nation
Buffalo Bills GM Buddy Nix steps down

Kryk Slants
Buddy Nix steps aside: quick-hit news, analysis

Buffalo Business First
Nix exiting as Bills’ general manager

 Bleacher Report
After Buddy Nix Transition, What Lies Ahead for Bills Franchise?

 The Sports Xchange
Nix steps down as Bills GM

 The Sports Network
Bills GM Nix steps down

 Buffalo Rumblings
Buddy Nix steps down as Buffalo Bills GM
Russ Brandon Buffalo Bills approval poll: May 2013
Jairus Byrd contract muddles Buffalo Bills safety picture
Buffalo Bills’ Doug Whaley has been groomed for GM role

 AFC East Daily
Nix relieves himself of Bills’ GM responsibilities

All Sports WNY
Buddy Nix Steps Away From Bills’ GM Position, Will Become Special Assistant

“I think we had 15 plays or so. It wasn’t just for me,” said EJ Manuel. ”It was for everybody. Everybody is trying to learn and get accustomed to get back playing football.”

Manuel, who has had his playbook since he was drafted said he’s been working on it, but has been pulled back by offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett for proper teaching.

“I can get used to what he wants us to do,” said Manuel of Hackett. ”Get used to the footwork, get used to playing and throwing routes against the defense and things like that.”

–The Bills announced yesterday the signing of seventh-round (222^nd overall) draft pick TE Chris Gragg. Gragg is the first of the team’s eight 2013 Draft picks to sign.

–Bills RB Fred Jackson will visit the class of 2012 M&T Bank Touchdown for Teachers winner, Bridget Maio, at World of Inquiry School in Rochester, NY, where students will sit in for an open forum with Jackson. Jackson will speak about his road to the NFL and other topics of interest to students. World of Inquiry School Teacher Bridget Maio was the 2012 winner of the community teacher recognition program, Touchdown for Teachers. The program honors teachers for their outstanding service to their schools and communities and demonstrated commitment to education. Maio is the 4^th Annual M&T Bank Touchdown for Teachers winner. In addition to the school visit, she also won a $1,000 grant for World of Inquiry School in Rochester.

– Jackson will be a celebrity judge on May 14^th at BAND Against Bullying at the Center of the Arts on the campus of UB North. BAND Against Bullying seeks to raise community awareness of bullying related issues and challenges and to raise support of anti-bullying legislation, education, and other related efforts, through an inter-school arts competition related to the theme of DIGNITY.

–The Bills announced that the 13th annual Kids Day Game will be celebrated Friday, August 16, 2013 at the home preseason game vs. the Minnesota Vikings. Kids Day activities begin at 3:30 p.m., game time is 7:00 p.m. The Kids Day Game will feature youth-themed tailgating, an exclusive gameday giveaway, interactive games, face painting, Buffalo Jills Cheerleaders, Billy Buffalo, as well as post-game fireworks. Kids Day is presented by BlueCross BlueShield of Western New York, the Official Health Plan of the Buffalo Bills, Kiss 98.5 and WKBW-TV, the official TV station of the Buffalo Bills.

–The Bills will begin their 2013 rookie mini-camp sessions today.

–Fifty Yard Finish: On Saturday, June 29, participants can take part in a half marathon, 5k or kids 1-mile run that will begin at Ralph Wilson Stadium, continue through the village and town of Orchard Park and finish at the 50 yard line on the field. Follow along with buffalobills.com journalist Hannah Buehler as she trains with Bills Strength and Conditioning Coach Dan Liburd for the race. Details can be found here: Fifty Yard Finish Details

TODAY’S INTERVIEW
8:45 AM – RB Fred Jackson – Morning Coffee Club (92.5 WBEE – Rochester) 

PHOTOS OF THE DAY

Bills second-round draft selection WR Robert Woods gets fitted for his helmet yesterday at One Bills Drive by Assistant Equipment Manager Randy “Woody” Ribbeck. The rookies arrived in Buffalo for the start of a three-day rookie mini-camp that begins today.

QUOTE OF THE DAY
Bills seventh-round draft selection TE Chris Gragg on officially signing his contract:
“It feels like the entire draft process is finally over. I’m back to being a football player now. I’ve been talking to the coaches and they seem very excited for me to be here and I’m ready to get to work.” – via BuffaloBills.com 5/9

 DAILY LINKS
Buffalo News-Bills sign seventh-rounder

Buffalo News-Giving Bills’ rookies a sense of place

Associated Press-Bills sign rookie 7th-round pick, TE Gragg

Richmond Times Dispatch-Gaskins may have gone to right NFL team

BuffaloBills.com-Bills sign seventh-round TE Chris Gragg

BuffaloBills.com-Bills Rookie Minicamp begins Friday

Audio/Video/Photo Clip

BuffaloBills.com
50 Yard Finish: Interval Running
The John Murphy Show May 9
Dustin Hopkins is Ready to Compete

 WGR 550
Bills ink 7th round pick Gragg to rookie deal
Former player suggests Bills and Byrd are $2M apart
Bills’ cap casualty candidates

 NFL.com
‘Top 100 Players of 2013′: Mario Williams

 WIVB
Bills sign 7th round pick Gragg

 WKBW
Bills sign 7th Round draft pick

 WGRZ
Take 2: How Far Did the Bills Reach in Picking Manuel?
Bills Sign 7th Round Pick Gragg

 YNN
Bills Sign Chris Gragg

 Additional Clips
Inside The Bills
M&T Bank Draft Day Challenge winners, Marrone on the 2 sides to tempo, Marrone: We’re playing for a higher calling, Rookie camp participants

 The Sports Xchange
Bills sign seventh-round pick

 Press Coverage (Buffalo News)
Bills sign 7th-round pick Chris Gragg
Kids Day game is Aug. 16 vs. Vikings

Pro Football Talk
Bills sign seventh-round TE Chris Gragg
Doug Marrone says Bills offense won’t go 100 miles an hour all the time

 Buffalo Rumblings
Chris Gragg contract: rookie signs with Buffalo Bills
NFL Network top 100 players of 2013: Mario Williams is No. 72
Buffalo Bills defensive scheme: nickel base for Mike Pettine?
Scott Chandler injury the headliner at Bills’ tight end position

 AFC East Daily
Bills’ Doug Marrone a fan of deferring to second half

–The Top 100 Players of 2013 presented by Buffalo Wild Wings weekly series continues tonight at 8:00 PM ET on NFL Network. Players ranked No. 80 through No. 71 will be unveiled – one of which will be a Buffalo Bill. RB Fred Jackson represented the Bills on the 2012 Top 100 list with a No. 83 ranking.

–Bills Pro Bowl DT Kyle Williams will receive the 2012 Ed Block Courage Foundation Award this evening at the fourth Annual Friends of Children Celebration  gala being held by Gateway-Longview. The Ed Block Courage Awards honors those National Football League players who exemplify commitments to the principles of sportsmanship and courage. This award is unique in that the recipients are selected solely by a vote of their teammates. Every fall all thirty two teams conduct a vote which results in each team selecting their Ed Block Courage Award recipient for the year.

–Buffalo RB Fred Jackson will be a celebrity judge on May 14^th at BAND Against Bullying at the Center of the Arts on the campus of UB North. BAND Against Bullying seeks to raise community awareness of bullying related issues and challenges and to raise support of anti-bullying legislation, education, and other related efforts, through an inter-school arts competition related to the theme of DIGNITY.

–The Bills will begin their 2013 rookie mini-camp sessions tomorrow.

–Fifty Yard Finish: On Saturday, June 29, participants can take part in a half marathon, 5k or kids 1-mile run that will begin at Ralph Wilson Stadium, continue through the village and town of Orchard Park and finish at the 50 yard line on the field. Follow along with buffalobills.com journalist Hannah Buehler as she trains with Bills Strength and Conditioning Coach Dan Liburd for the race. Details can be found here: Fifty Yard Finish Details

THIS DAY IN BILLS HISTORY – MAY 9, 1996
The Bills announced that Head Coach Marv Levy would become the 10^th member of the Wall of Fame. Levy was named the team’s head coach on November 3, 1986 and remained until his retirement on December 31, 1997. Levy is the only coach in NFL history to lead his team to four straight Super Bowl appearances. He was inducted to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2001. 

PHOTO OF THE DAY

Former Buffalo Bills Head Coach Marv Levy on the sideline during the team’s game on October 8, 1995 against the New York Jets. Buffalo defeated New York 29-10 in the team’s fourth win of a five-game winning streak.

QUOTE OF THE DAY
Bills HC Doug Marrone on how he plans to motivate the team:
“We are working together. I meet with players daily. Talk to them daily. Making sure, ‘Hey, we are in this thing together.’ We are here. We are here for a reason. You walk around our building and there is great tradition. You look at the great players on the wall. What is going to be our focus? What is going to be our tradition? What are we going to leave behind? I go back to the higher calling and I do not mean to be repetitive, but if you are playing for yourself and you are playing for the money—you are really playing for the wrong reasons.

“We are fortunate to play a game that when we were kids, and here is what is interesting, when we were all kids and we played this game we did not all have coaches. We did not have any coaches telling us what to do, but we went out there and we played as hard as we could. We were sweating, we were playing and no one was going to say work hard. We did it all on our own. Why does it change? It shouldn’t. We are fortunate. Less than one-percent of people get to do this in the world. We should go out there and play. We are playing for a championship. We are playing for a trophy. We are playing for a higher calling. We are playing for an organization that should not be going through this. People in this area should not be going through this. We have to change that. We have the ability to affect a region by putting a productive, winning football team out there. That is our higher calling. And if you are not buying into that, then you do not need to be here. You can go play for some other team. We do not want those types of players on our football team.” – via BuffaloBills.com 5/8

DAILY LINKS
BuffaloBills.com-Competition, camaraderie the results of Bills conditioning program

Audio/Video/Photo Clip

BuffaloBills.com
The John Murphy Show May 8
Clark Judge Thinks Highly of Bills Rookies
Doug Marrone Addresses Season Ticket Holders

 WGR 550
How the Bills fit in to the new NFL: Defense

 Additional Clips

Inside The Bills
Report: Gronk to undergo 4th surgery, Beating Brady blueprint started by Pettine, Carrie Underwood new face of Sunday Night Football, Team logo for Pough stays largely the same, LB Pough a talker on the field

 AFC East Blog
Bills have competition for Karlos Dansby

 Press Coverage (Buffalo News)
Doug Marrone on the Bills’ O-line

 Buffalo Rumblings
Did Bills acquire enough talent for Mike Pettine, hybrid defense?
Buffalo Bills defense: Kyle Williams’ role key to hybrid scheme

 Yahoo! Sports
Making Sense of the Buffalo Bills’ Decision to Sign Boom-or-Bust Receiver Da’Rick Rogers

 Buffalo Business First Blog
Battle of Bands has anti-bullying theme

–Bills Pro Bowl DT Kyle Williams will receive the 2012 Ed Block Courage Foundation Award tomorrow evening at the fourth Annual Friends of Children Celebration  gala being held by Gateway-Longview. The Ed Block Courage Awards honors those National Football League players who exemplify commitments to the principles of sportsmanship and courage. This award is unique in that the recipients are selected solely by a vote of their teammates. Every fall all thirty two teams conduct a vote which results in each team selecting their Ed Block Courage Award recipient for the year.

–The Bills will begin their 2013 rookie mini-camp sessions on Friday.

–Fifty Yard Finish: On Saturday, June 29, participants can take part in a half marathon, 5k or kids 1-mile run that will begin at Ralph Wilson Stadium, continue through the village and town of Orchard Park and finish at the 50 yard line on the field. Follow along with buffalobills.com journalist Hannah Buehler as she trains with Bills Strength and Conditioning Coach Dan Liburd for the race. Details can be found here: Fifty Yard Finish Details

 QUOTE OF THE DAY
Bills undrafted LB Keith Pough on his expectations for the upcoming season:
“My expectations are to impress the coaches enough to be an instant contributor to the team. I know there are a lot of challenges in terms of learning the system and get used to the speed of the game, but that will come with time. My goal is nothing short of being a first-year starter and contributing right off the bat.”via BuffaloBills.com 5/8

DAILY LINKS

Buffalo News-Bills hope Tuel is part of the QB mix 

Detroit Free Press-Report: Lions tried to trade Bills the No. 5 pick in draft

BuffaloBills.com-Undrafted LB Pough out to make impression

Audio/Video/Photo Clip

BuffaloBills.com
Bills Focus: Receiving Weapons Added
Kevin Weidl: “Draft Grades are Garbage”
Gil Brandt Knew EJ Manuel Was a 1st Round Talent
The John Murphy Show May 7
Dorin Dickerson is Finally Finding Stability

Additional Clips

Inside The Bills

Sports Media 101
Buffalo Bills’ Kyle Williams to Receive Sportsmanship Award

Buffalo Rumblings
Doug Marrone Buffalo Bills approval poll: May 2013
Stevie Johnson tops Buffalo Bills receivers group with talent, youth
Bills’ wide receiver makeover saves money, improves talent

–The Bills will begin their 2013 rookie mini-camp sessions on Friday.

–Fifty Yard Finish: On Saturday, June 29, participants can take part in a half marathon, 5k or kids 1-mile run that will begin at Ralph Wilson Stadium, continue through the village and town of Orchard Park and finish at the 50 yard line on the field. Follow along with buffalobills.com journalist Hannah Buehler as she trains with Bills Strength and Conditioning Coach Dan Liburd for the race. Details can be found here: Fifty Yard Finish Details

PHOTO OF THE DAY

Follow @HannahBills on Twitter for exclusive behind-the-scenes photos from the 2013 Buffalo Jills Cheerleaders photo shoot in Florida.

QUOTE OF THE DAY
ESPN NFL Analyst and former NFL GM Bill Polian on the Bills’ second-round draft choice WR Robert Woods:
“I think he has many of the same qualities as Reggie Wayne. He’s reliable. He runs really good routes. He gets in and out of his breaks. He knows how to set up defenders. He has really good hands. And he’s a tough guy-he’ll take a lick and bounce back up… I think he’s (Woods) is a solid pro. He’s a guy that’s going to be a contributor. Robert Woods is everything you want in a receiver…  but he does everything well. I really thought he was a great pick, and a great ‘buy’ at that point, at 41.” via The John Murphy Show 5/6

DAILY LINKS

Olean Times Herald-Nix, Marrone look back at Buffalo draft  

BuffaloBills.com-Bill Polian says EJ Manuel pick will define Bills Draft

Audio/Video/Photo Clip

NFL.com
Better outlook in 2013: New York Jets QB Geno Smith or Buffalo Bills QB EJ Manuel? 

Additional Clips

Inside The Bills
Draft experts have different job than GMs, Jerry Hughes “turned the corner” last year, What Hopkins has worked on recently, K Hopkins plans to re-connect w/FSU holder, Fans grade Bills draft higher than draftniks, Schefter thinks EJ will be 1st rookie QB to start, C.J. is a PFF Top 20 player

 ESPN AFC East Blog
Grading the 2010 draft: Buffalo Bills

 Buffalo Rumblings
Bills’ wide receiver makeover saves money, improves talent
Might EJ Manuel start in Week 1 for the Buffalo Bills?
Dustin Hopkins, Shawn Powell, Garrison Sanborn: from Florida State to Buffalo

 AFC East Daily
Bills, Rams ‘laid groundwork’ for trade prior to draft

–Bills Assistant Equipment Manager Randy “Woody” Ribbeck was inducted into the Minor Pro Football Hall of Fame in Pittsburgh, Pa. on Saturday, May 4^th. Ribbeck was honored for his work with the Buffalo Germinis, Tonawanda Cougars and Niagara Spartans. He is entering his 31^st year as the team’s assistant equipment manager.

—-Take a behind the scenes look at exclusive access inside Buffalo’s draft room as the Bills make their selections in the first two days of the 2013 NFL Draft. See exactly what went down when the Bills traded back in the first round before selecting QB EJ Manuel.

–The Bills will begin their 2013 rookie mini-camp sessions on Friday.

–Fifty Yard Finish: On Saturday, June 29, participants can take part in a half marathon, 5k or kids 1-mile run that will begin at Ralph Wilson Stadium, continue through the village and town of Orchard Park and finish at the 50 yard line on the field. Follow along with buffalobills.com journalist Hannah Buehler as she trains with Bills Strength and Conditioning Coach Dan Liburd for the race. Details can be found here: Fifty Yard Finish Details

TODAY’S INTERVIEW
1:15 PM – DB Jonathan Meeks –Sports Radio 1270 The Fan
PHOTO OF THE DAY

Bills SS Da’Norris Searcy took the mound at Coca-Cola Field on Friday evening to throw out the ceremonial first pitch prior to the Buffalo Bisons game. (Photo Courtesy: Buffalo Bisons) 

QUOTE OF THE DAY
Bills sixth-round draft selection K Dustin Hopkins on his opportunity with the Bills:
“This thing is going to be a competition. You can’t play in the league as long as he (Rian Lindell) has and not be a great kicker. That being said I’ve got my work cut out for me because he’s very talented, he’s experienced and has a lot of things going for him. I want to come in and compete and whatever the organization is they want the best at that position. We’re both going to try our best to win that job.” - via BuffaloBills.com

DAILY LINKS

Buffalo News-Smart money’s on keeping Byrd 

CBS Sports-Alonso could star as QB of Bills’ defense

Boston Globe-Grading drafts in the AFC East

Miami Herald-Ken Mastrole coaches FSU QB E.J. Manuel into NFL Draft

BuffaloBills.com-K Hopkins has honed his craft for years

BuffaloBills.com-Cinco de Mayo: Bills Backers International

BuffaloBills.com-Bills will be on the lookout for missing puzzle pieces

BuffaloBills.com-NFL sons follow in their father’s footsteps

Audio/Video/Photo Clip
BuffaloBills.com
Exclusive: Go Inside Buffalo’s Draft Room
Inside the AFC East’s draft classes
Zebrie Sanders on Reuniting With EJ Manuel

 WGR 550
5/4 T.J. Graham is excited about the Bills’ WR competition
5/4 Thurman Thomas talks about the Bills new offense w/ Joe B & Greg Bauch

 NFL.com
Inside the AFC East’s draft classes

 Additional Clips
Inside The Bills
NFL OC sees early success for Manuel, Fan Friday 5-3

Press Coverage (Buffalo News)
Bills great Reed pursuing coaching career

Going Deep (Boston Globe)
Buffalo Bills post-draft depth chart

Buffalo Rumblings
2013 NFL Draft analysis, one week later: Buffalo Bills edition
2013 Buffalo Bills off-season: 33 new players added
Buffalo Bills re-watch: the Mike Pettine teaser post
Buffalo Bills re-watch: studying offensive, defensive schemes

–One week from today, the Bills will begin their 2013 rookie mini-camp sessions.

–NFL.com Senior Analyst Gil Brandt tabbed the Bills’ 2013 undrafted free agent class the second-best in his top 10 rankings.

–Universal Pictures is coming to Buffalo to film part of a movie in late May 2013, and they’re looking for football fans to help fill the stadium for several scenes. Open registration will take place on Sunday, May 5, at the Ralph Wilson Stadium Healthy Zone Fieldhouse from 10am to 4pm. This registration session is for anyone interested in participating and is free and open to the public. Details and registration information can be found here. Details and registration information can be found here>>>

THIS WEEKEND’S INTERVIEW
Saturday, May 4: 2:30 PM – WR T.J. Graham – Greg B. and Joe B. (WGR 550)

PHOTO OF THE DAY

Bills LB Arthur Moats has been selected to serve as a spokesman for the United Way. To learn more about Moats’ participation with the United Way and his recent contributions, click here for a story on BuffaloBills.com.

QUOTE OF THE DAY
Bills LB Arthur Moats on serving as a spokesman for the United Way and assisting a family who lost their home to a fire:
“When you are in position to help people out it definitely means a lot. It goes a long way for people. It could be something as simple as just smiling at somebody that could brighten their day and change the course of their life, so I felt like partnering up with United Way definitely is going to help out a lot. I’ve been through a similar situation. I know people who have had their house burn down. I know how hard it can be on you as a family. We just want to make this transition as smooth as possible. So if me coming in, eating dinner with them and giving them a couple of gifts can help them out and brighten their days up, well then by all means. You could just tell that everyone enjoyed themselves, and the time we spent together was a blessing.” via BuffaloBills.com

DAILY LINKS

Buffalo News-Hopkins’ selection kickstarts battle

Rock Hill Herald-Hard work to reach NFL nothing new for Rock Hill’s Meeks

Huffington Herald Dispatch-This year’s NFL Draft unusual, in Buffalo for sure

BuffaloBills.com-Manuel’s roots offer history of top flight talent

BuffaloBills.com-Bills-Redskins game time moved back

BuffaloBills.com-Moats named Bills United Way Worldwide Spokesman

Audio/Video/Photo Clip

BuffaloBills.com
50 yard finish: Shopping for healthy food
The John Murphy Show May 2
Luke Tasker Following in His Father’s Footsteps
Marquise Goodwin Proved Himself in Big Games

 WGR 550
How the Bills fit in to the new NFL: Offense

YNN
Bills Address Wide Receiver Picture

 Additional Clips

Inside The Bills
Bills rank 2nd in undrafted FA haul, Jairus, Kyle crack PFF top 30, Bills LB seen as pick of undrafted litter, Projecting starters from 2013 draft class, Some sobering draft statistics

 Press Coverage (Buffalo News)
Bills great Reed pursuing coaching career
Moats supports victims of fire
Michael Husted breaks down new Bills kicker Dustin Hopkins

 Birmingham News
Chan Gailey talks God, football at Northeast Alabama FCA banquet

 Buffalo Rumblings
Buddy Nix Buffalo Bills approval poll: May 2013
Buffalo Bills re-watch series: 2013 summer brainstorming

 AFC East Daily
Three AFC East teams touted for undrafted pickups

 For the Win (USA Today)
Movie studio will pay Buffalo Bills fans to show up to stadium

–Universal Pictures is coming to Buffalo to film part of a movie in late May 2013, and they’re looking for football fans to help fill the stadium for several scenes. Open registration will take place on Sunday, May 5, at the Ralph Wilson Stadium Healthy Zone Fieldhouse from 10am to 4pm. This registration session is for anyone interested in participating and is free and open to the public. Details and registration information can be found here. Details and registration information can be found here>>>

PHOTO OF THE DAY

EJ Manuel (right) with his Dad, Erik, visit One Bills Drive the day after being selected by the Bills in the first round. BuffaloBills.com provides a behind the scenes video of Manuel’s journey from Radio City Music Hall to his arrival at the team’s facility in Orchard Park, NY.

QUOTE OF THE DAY
Bills WR T.J. Graham on his Skills Challenge Camp:
“This is the coolest camp that I have ever come across. If I was a young kid right now, I would eat this alive. I would have loved it. The camp came about because I used to watch those skills challenges on TV in high school and I wanted to participate in it, but I wasn’t an All-American who went to Orlando, participated in it and was on ESPN. In college I saw the same thing with the top prospects… I thought about how many other people or kids who play football would love to have that opportunity and would never get the chance. I decided to bring it to the average Joe. Everyone can do it. I even participated in the one we had this past weekend in Raleigh. Lost my voice and everything. (Laughs)” via Kiss 98.5 (5/1)

 DAILY LINKS

The Buffalo News-Commentary: The Bills get a quarterback, gain speed in draft

Fort Myers News Press-Estero’s Mastrole happy to see protege plucked early during NFL draft

BuffaloBills.com-Bills WR picks offer more than just speed

BuffaloBills.com-Throwback Thursday: Pulling draft picks from a hat

BuffaloBills.com-Bills and Upstate Niagara renew partnership

Audio/Video/Photo Clip

BuffaloBills.com
Announce the Bills 4th round pick contest winner
The John Murphy Show May 1
UB’s Steven Means on Being Drafted by the Bucs

 WGR 550
5/1 3rd round pick WR Marquise Goodwin explains the process of being drafted by the Bills, his role at Texas and what Aaron Williams and what it was like participating in the US Olympics

 Kiss 98.5
Buffalo Bills Wr T.J. Graham talks about his free Football Skills Challenge

 WGRZ
Football Fans Needed as Movie Extras
JavAudibles: Bills Linebackers

 Additional Clips

Inside The Bills
Manuel’s HS coach didn’t want just “an athlete”, Casting call at Ralph Wilson Stadium for Universal Pictures film, How Bills scored on draft trade, Watch Manuel’s first hours as a Buffalo Bill

Press Coverage (Buffalo News)
Michael Husted breaks down new Bills kicker Dustin Hopkins
When first QB not drafted in top 10, success usually doesn’t follow
All hands on deck for Bills’ fullback duties; McIntyre gone

 Eye on Football (CBS Sports)
Doug Marrone thinks ‘media really pumped up’ Ryan Nassib connection
Manuel a bad-weather QB? It sealed the deal for Bills

 ESPN AFC East Blog
Poll: Bills’ Week 1 quarterback starter?

 Buffalo Rumblings
Top 10 Buffalo Bills prospects under age 25
Bills’ EJ Manuel not likely to sit long in rookie season 

AFC East Daily
Agent: McIntyre’s stint with Bills has run its course

 SportsPro Media
Buffalo Bills and Upstate Niagara renew ties

–The Buffalo Bills yesterday announced their continued partnership with PrimeSport (the official fan travel partner of the Buffalo Bills,) to offer official fan packages for all of the team’s 2013 home and away games. As part of the agreement, PrimeSport will be offering Official Bills Travel Packages for the ultimate loyal fan looking to take their team spirit on the road.  Official Games of the Year Travel Packages for 2013 will also be included.  Each Game of the Year can include game tickets, hotel accommodations, a PrimeSport ticket holder and lanyard, an exclusive fan travel gift souvenir, and much more.  This year’s Bills Official Games of the Year will be:

• Sunday, October 27^th @ New Orleans
• Sunday, December 1^st vs. Atlanta (in Toronto)

–BuffaloBills.com compiled a list of the team’s 2013 Draft grades from media members and NFL Draft pundits.

TODAY’S INTERVIEWS
9:10 AM – WR Marquise Goodwin – The Howard Simon Show (WGR550 - Listen Here)

THIS DAY IN BILLS HISTORY – MAY 1, 1995
The Bills announced that QB Joe Ferguson would become the ninth member of the Wall of Fame. Ferguson played in Buffalo from 1973-84 and was the Bills’ first of two third-round draft selections in 1973. He led the team in passing for 12 straight years (1973-84). His performance at Miami (10/9/1983) established a franchise single-game record in attempts (55), completions (38) and yards (419). He ranks second in club history in career attempts (4,166), completions (2,188), passing yards (27,590) and passing touchdowns (181).

PHOTO OF THE DAY

QB Joe Ferguson drops back for a pass. On this day in 1995 the team announced that he would become the ninth member of the Wall of Fame.

QUOTE OF THE DAY
On his route running:
“That is why I think it is a perfect fit going to that offense. We are going to have a great scheme with these coaches. And just having the history of the West Coast offense and going through it, the only thing that is going to change really is the terminology. I look forward to playing it. I know it is going to be fast on that offense.” – WR Robert Woods via The John Murphy Show 5/1

DAILY LINKS

Buffalo Business First-Bills retain sponsor for fan travel

Tonawanda News-Mel Kiper deserves an F

BuffaloBills.com-Bills continue partnership with PrimeSport

BuffaloBills.com-2013 Buffalo Bills draft grades

Audio/Video/Photo Clip
BuffaloBills.com
Exclusive: EJ Manuel’s Journey From NYC to Buffalo
The John Murphy Show April 30
EJ Manuel Showed NFL Promise in Eighth Grade
Robert Woods Says He’s a Perfect Fit With Bills 

WGR 550
12 things I think about the Bills

 YNN
How soon will Manuel become the man for Bills?

 Additional Clips
Inside The Bills
Bills competed with 14 teams to land WR Rogers, Bad weather at EJ’s workout helped, Marrone: work on QBs was most I’ve seen, Jerry Rice & Reggie Wayne: NFL models for Robert Woods, Woods surprised by Barkley’s drop, Nix thinks Bills roster is better, Bills had a 1st/2nd round grade on Da’Rick Rogers, The value a rookie QB could provide, Manuel’s numbers tell story, Marrone and Nix on the radio

Press Coverage (Buffalo News)
Proposed analytics department not part of Bills’ equation yet

Around the League (NFL.com)
Buffalo Bills like EJ Manuel’s hands, bad-weather play
2013 NFL Draft Fallout: Buffalo Bills
Buffalo Bills’ analytics department doesn’t exist yet

 Pro Football Talk
E.J. Manuel impressed Bills at bad weather workout

 Buffalo Rumblings
Bills draft picks 2013: Dan Kadar of SB Nation sounds off
EJ Manuel contract: Bills saved money in 2013 NFL Draft trade
Buffalo Bills 53-man roster projection, post-2013 NFL Draft edition

 AFC East Daily
Bills were sold on Manuel’s bad-weather prospects

–Buffalo also announced that the team agreed to terms with 16 undrafted college free agents who are expected to sign their contracts prior to the start of the team’s Rookie Mini-Camp on May 10^th:

–The team also announced the release of QB Aaron Corp, T Adam Grant, K Chris Koepplin and TE Joe Sawyer.

TODAY’S INTERVIEWS

11:40 AM – Head Coach Doug Marrone – The SiriusXM Blitz (SIRIUSNFL Radio)

12:05 PM – Head Coach Doug Marrone – Tim Brando Show (CBS Sports Radio)

2:40 PM – GM Buddy Nix – The Rich Gaenzler Sports Show (Sports Radio 1270 The Fan)

3:05 PM – GM Buddy Nix – The Bryan Hayes Show (TSN – Toronto)

PHOTO OF THE DAY

Former Buffalo Bills DE Chris Kelsay announces the team’s first of two second-round draft selections – USC WR Robert Woods – at the NFL Draft on Friday, April 26, 2013 at Radio City Music Hall in New York. AP Photo/Mary Altaffer)

QUOTE OF THE DAY
On newly acquired LB Jerry Hughes:
“I scouted Jerry Hughes coming out of TCU and so did all of our other scouts. We had good grades on him. Actually, we had first-round grades on him. We liked Jerry. Jerry played defensive end at TCU, but he was a guy that was an undersized defensive end. He was a guy that his motor was running all the time. He chased all over the field and had the ability to run in the 4.6’s at 255 pounds. We saw him as an outside linebacker. He played down at TCU and when he first went to the Colts he played down for them. Then they stood him up some this year after (Coach) Pagano got in there. We think he will fit what we do. We are excited about seeing (it)… We know he is a smart guy and he plays hard so we want to give him an opportunity. Try to put him in a place where he can excel.” – Bills General Manager Buddy Nix via The John Murphy Show on 4/29

 DAILY LINKS

Buffalo News-Bills swap LBs with Colts for versatility

Associated Press-Bills trade LB Sheppard to Colts for LB Hughes

Indianapolis Star-Colts deal disappointing first-round pick Jerry Hughes to Buffalo for LB Kelvin Sheppard

BuffaloBills.com-A respectable Tuel-box for Bills undrafted QB

BuffaloBills.com-Bills trade LB Sheppard to Colts for LB Hughes

BuffaloBills.com-Bills agree to terms with 16 undrafteds, cut four

Audio/Video/Photo Clip
BuffaloBills.com
2013 Draft profile: Wide Receiver Da’Rick Rogers, Tennessee Tech
The John Murphy Show April 29
Manish Mehta On The End Of The Jets-Tebow Era
Buddy Nix: “What’s NOT to Like About EJ Manuel?”
Jerry Hughes Says He’s Excited To Join The Bills

 WGR 550
Bills trade Sheppard to Colts
The Bills Make Me Wanna…
Star Power – Bills grab some, Sabres to give it up?
4/29 Joe Buscaglia talks Bills Draft
4/29 Buddy Nix says EJ Manuel’s personality impressed the Bills
4/29 Jerry Sullivan likes the Bills pick of EJ Manuel
Jerry Sullivan w/ Thoughts on Bills Draft

 Kiss 98.5
Buffalo Bills CEO Russ Brandon 

NFL.com
Should EJ Manuel start for Buffalo Bills Week 1?

 WIVB
Bills trade Sheppard for Hughes 

WKBW
Bills trade Kelvin Sheppard to Colts, acquire Jerry Hughes

 WGRZ
Bills Trade Sheppard to Colts for Hughes
Buffalo Bills 2013 NFL Draft Review

 WHAM
Bills Acquire LB Hughes In Trade With Colts

WROC
Bills trade LB Sheppard to Colts

 Additional Clips
Inside The Bills
Pettine’s defense puts premium on versatility, Hughes coming off his best year with Indy, Hughes: “A new opportunity”, Hughes trade another versatility move, Bills release 4 players, King: Marrone did what was best for team

Press Coverage (Buffalo News)
Da’Rick Rogers: ‘Tell Bills fans they got the steal of the draft’
Buddy Nix sees Jerry Hughes as versatile fit for defense
Bills add 16 undrafted rookies, release four long shots
Top three tacklers gone: Bills trade Kelvin Sheppard for Jerry Hughes

 The Sports Network
Colts, Bills swap linebackers
Buffalo Bills 2013 NFL Draft Review 

The Sports XChange
Bills trade LB Sheppard to Colts

 ESPN AFC East Blog
Bills swap linebackers with Colts 

Around the League (NFL.com)
Indianapolis Colts trade Jerry Hughes to Buffalo Bills

 Pro Football Talk
Bills announce full list of undrafted rookie signings
Colts, Bills exchange linebackers
Chip Kelly, Doug Marrone passed on their college players

 Buffalo Rumblings
Buffalo Bills announce 16 undrafted free agent signings
Buffalo Bills acquire Jerry Hughes from Colts; trade Kelvin Sheppard
Buffalo Bills 2013 draft class puts big pressure on Doug Marrone
Buffalo Bills sign Da’Rick Rogers, hope to hit UDFA jackpot

 Buffalo Sports Daily
Bills Trade Sheppard To Colts For Hughes

 AFC East Daily
Bills ship Sheppard, ink Rogers among roster moves

 All Sports WNY
Bills Pick Up LB Jerry Hughes from Colts for LB Sheppard

 Gainesville Times
Flowery Branch graduate Cross picked up by Buffalo Bills

TODAY’S INTERVIEWS
6:25 AM – Head Coach Doug Marrone – Brady and Lang in the Morning (Fan 590 – Toronto Listen Here)

8:05 AM – GM Buddy Nix – The Howard Simon Show (WGR 550 Listen Here)

8:10 AM – President and CEO Russ Brandon – Janet and Nick in the Morning (KISS 98.5 Listen Here)

8:20 AM – President and CEO Russ Brandon – The Break Room (96.5 WCMF)

10:15 AM – Head Coach Doug Marrone – Schein on Sports (SIRIUSXM)

4:45 PM – Head Coach Doug Marrone – NBC Universal Radio

5:00 PM – GM Buddy Nix – Movin’ the Chains (SIRIUSXM NFL Radio)

5:25 PM – GM Buddy Nix – Prime Time Sports (Fan 590 – Toronto)

PHOTOS OF THE DAY

Inside the Bills 2013 Draft Room – President and CEO Russ Brandon, GM Buddy Nix, Head Coach Doug Marrone and Assistant General Manager Doug Whaley.

First-round draft selection QB E.J. Manuel holds a football on the turf at Ralph Wilson Stadium field alongside Head Coach Doug Marrone, GM Buddy Nix and President and CEO Russ Brandon.

Bills CB Stephon Gilmore and S Da’Norris Searcy pose for a picture with fans inside the team’s BlueCross BlueShield Healthy Zone Fieldhouse locker room during the Thursday night draft day party.

 QUOTES OF THE DAY FROM THE POST-DRAFT PRESS CONFERENCE
On the team’s 2013 Draft class:
“We felt like we stayed with the board. Everybody says that. Everybody says they do not draft for need, but basically you do some. Everybody does some. We stayed with our grades and we think we filled a bunch of holes. It remains to be seen if…we feel good about it. We think we got them at the right position and we think they are good players.” – Bills General Manager Buddy Nix

On adding players with speed and versatility:
“I think that I said it before when you look at the picks you are looking at players who have a lot of speed. I was brought up in this profession with (Syracuse) Coach MacPherson and even when I was younger my high school coach. I was taught follow speed. I think the versatility is important because I think when you have versatility within the players then you can get the best people on the field. That is everywhere except the quarterback position, where there is just one position for that.” – Head Coach Doug Marrone

On drafting QB EJ Manuel:
“I’m excited about it. I know our fans are as well. We’ve heard a lot about it for many, many years. Looking forward to having EJ (Manuel) in the mix coming in to compete and watching his growth and maturity in the organization is exciting. It’s exciting for all of us. I’m excited about the entire process. The entire draft and what still lies ahead in the next few hours when it comes to college free agency. We still have a lot of work to get done, but I’m very pleased with what’s been done to date.” – Bills President and CEO Russ Brandon

 DAILY LINKS

 Buffalo News: Bills take a chance on Rogers | Bills think safety first at draft’s end | Bills’ draft reflects Marrone’s need for speed | Passing of GM torch not likely in near future | Writer of uncommon grace connected with a common touch| Felser showed what it meant to be a pro | Speaking of Larry Felser | Tasker and Kelly pass chemistry test on Sirius | Bills go for playmakers at receiver, linebacker | Manuel feels kinship with Buffalo | Later-round picks seal a team’s fate

Rochester D&C: Buffalo Bills add the ‘wow’ in draft | Buffalo Bills address needs in second, third rounds

Associated Press: Tennessee Tech WR Rogers agrees to sign with Bills | Bills turn to defensive need on final draft day | Rookie QB Manuel has ties to Bills famed past | Bills draft 2 WRs as new-look offense takes shape

Toronto Sun: Bills had good gut feelings about 2 troubled draft picks | Bills grab two receivers, linebacker on Day 2  | Manuel family strengthened by values, faith

CNNSI Monday Morning Quarterback: Peter King: “Doug Marrone did what he had to do”

 Yahoo! Sports-Secrecy helps Bills land E.J. Manuel, perhaps long-awaited return to postseason

Los Angeles Times-USC receiver Robert Woods selected by Buffalo Bills

Dallas Morning News-Texas Longhorns WR Marquise Goodwin didn’t think he’d be drafted Friday

 BuffaloBills.com: Manuel excited about his fit in Bills offense | Speed and versatility personified in Bills draft class | S Williams, Buffalo’s first pick on Day 3 | Bills double up at safety with Meeks in round 5 | 6th round K Hopkins another FSU alum | Bills cap draft with TE-H-back Gragg | Chris Gragg: ”I knew I was the most explosive tight end” | Buddy Nix, Doug Marrone comment on Bills 2013 Draft | Russ Brandon: ”I’m very pleased with what’s been done to date” | Duke Williams: ”I was really versatile [at Nevada]” | Jonathan Meeks: ”I just fell in love with the defense” | Dustin Hopkins: ”I’m confident in what I can do” | Strong bond between Manuel and Bills Hall of Famer | Bills land WR Woods on day two | Bills add athletic LB Alonso with 46th pick | Speedster WR Goodwin added in round three | Robert Woods: ”I’m ready and willing to go against each and every corner in the league” | EJ Manuel: ”I expect to come in and compete” | Kiko Alonso: ”I feel like I can play any spot in [the Bills] system” | Marquise Goodwin: ”People underestimate me as a complete football player”  | Buddy Nix and Doug Marrone comment on Day Two Draft picks

Smithtown Patch-From Gold’s Gym Trainer to NFL Hopeful

 Tallahassee Democrat-FSU’s first-round picks love their new homes

Orange County Register-USC’s Woods to team with Manuel in Buffalo

 Eugene Register Guard-Kiko Alonso’s the latest Duck to hear his name called in the 2013 NFL Draft

Portland Oregonian-Oregon Ducks linebacker Kiko Alonso exceeds expectations

 San Jose Mercury News-Buffalo Bills take former Los Gatos star Kiko Alonso

 Austin American Statesman-Goodwin goes to Bills in 3rd round

 Reno Gazette Journal-Pack’s Williams, Wooten picked in Draft

Greenville News-Meeks is stalking, not waiting

Men’s Health-STEVIE JOHNSON: NFL BAD BOY

 Lockport Union Sun & Journal-Bills draft a step in the right direction

 Canandaigua Daily Messenger-Evaluating the rest of Buffalo’s draft class

 Auburn Citizen-Bills add speed on offense, pick up defensive help

 Niagara Gazette-The voice of the fans

Audio/Video/Photo Clip 

BuffaloBills.com
NFL Network experts debate Manuel pick | Bills Roundup: Draft Day Three Recap | Nix and Marrone recap the draft | Chris Gragg Conference Call | Evaluating Buffalo Bills’ draft | Dustin Hopkins Conference Call | Darrell Moody on Safety Jonathan Meeks | Jonathan Meeks Conference Call | Duke Williams Conference Call | Brad Forsyth on Safety Duke Williams | Bills Roundup: Draft Day Two Recap | Nix and Marrone on Day Two Picks | Marquise Goodwin Conference Call | Kiko Alonso Conference Call | Robert Woods Conference Call | 2013 Draft profile: ILB Kiko Alonso, Oregon | 2013 Draft profile: Wide Receiver Robert Woods, USC | Bills Focus: EJ Manuel 1-on-1 Sit-Down Interview | EJ Manuel Introductory Press Conference | Jim Kelly on EJ Manuel | Draft Party Recap | EJ Manuel Says He’s Proud to be a Bill | Jimbo Fisher Says EJ Manuel is a Winner | The John Murphy Show April 26 | Jim Kelly Says E.J. Manuel is a Keeper  | E.J. Manuel Welcome to Buffalo Press Conference

WGR 550
Bills draft assessment | Bills Go Safety in 4th and 5th Rounds; Kicker in the 6th | Nix likes Bills’ draft, I think | Bills Take WR Woods On Day 2 | Bills Address LB Need, Take Alonso in 2nd Round | Bills Add Another WR

 NFL.com
Which rookie QB from the 2013 NFL Draft is in the best situation? | Did the Buffalo Bills reach for quarterback EJ Manuel? | Evaluating Buffalo Bills’ draft | Buffalo Bills draft WR Robert Woods No. 41 in 2013 NFL Draft

WKBW
Bills Brass on 2013 Draft | Bills take FSU kicker in the 6th Round | Bills add another safety in the 5th round of NFL Draft | Bills grab a safety in fourth round

 WGRZ
Bills Sign Da’Rick Rogers, Two Other Free Agents | Bills Add Defense in Final Rounds of Draft | Bills Draft: Day #2 | Bills Introduce EJ Manuel to Buffalo | Bills Select Quarterback EJ Manuel

WIVB
Bills wrap up draft week | Bills choose a linebacker with pick 46 | Bills grab a wide receiver | Tears of relief for Manuel in NFL draft | EJ Manuel arrives in Buffalo

 YNN
All eyes on Manuel | Bills Make Last and Final Draft Pick | Bills add two wideouts on second day of NFL Draft

WHAM
Bills draft speedy Texas WR Goodwin with 78th pick | Bills Take LB Kiko Alonso in Round 2 | Bills Take USC Wide Receiver Woods in Round 2

 Additional Clips

Inside The Bills

 Press Coverage (Buffalo News)
Da’Rick Rogers will control whether he’s a player or a flop | Bills draft picks could be legit Rookie of the Year candidates | Bills less likely to sign Karlos Dansby with Kiko Alonso in fold | Bills sign undrafted QB Jeff Tuel and WR Brandon Kaufman | Report: Bills to sign notable UFA in ex-Tennessee WR Da’Rick Rogers | Bills ‘very seriously’ considered drafting another quarterback | Russ Brandon says Buddy Nix will be Bills GM ‘for a long time’ | Video: Nix, Marrone on drafted players | Video: Day Three of NFL Draft | Bills ‘not concerned’ about Jairus Byrd, but preparing anyway | Bills snag Arkansas TE Chris Gragg in the seventh round | Selection of sixth-round kicker a bad sign for Rian Lindell | Bills draft safeties in numbers, take Jonathan Meeks in fifth round | Bills drawn to Duke Williams’ aggressiveness, versatility | Bills draft Duke Williams, another defender with suspensions | Top prospects who could fit Bills on Day Three

Scott Pitoniak.com
Time will tell if Bills finally got the QB position straightenned out with EJ Manuel

 ESPN AFC East Blog
Are Bills taking too many character risks?

 Around the League (NFL.com)
Karlos Dansby falling out of favor with Buffalo Bills?

Pro Football Talk
Draft review: Buffalo Bills | Bills sign troubled WR Da’Rick Rogers | Bills, Dolphins going young at kicker? | Could Bills still nab Nassib?

 Buffalo Rumblings
Buffalo Bills sign Da’Rick Rogers, hope to hit UDFA jackpot | 2013 Buffalo Bills depth chart update, post 2013 NFL Draft | Buffalo Bills 2013 NFL Draft approval ratings | Undrafted free agent signings 2013: tracking Buffalo Bills rumors | 2013 NFL Draft grades: how did the Buffalo Bills do? | 2013 NFL Draft results: Buffalo Bills pick Chris Gragg | 2013 NFL Draft results: Buffalo Bills pick Dustin Hopkins | 2013 NFL Draft results: Buffalo Bills pick Jonathan Meeks | 2013 NFL Draft results: Buffalo Bills pick Duke Williams

Buffalo Sports Daily
Final Thoughts On Bills 2013 Draft Class

–The Buffalo Bills selected Florida St. QB E.J. Manuel in the first-round of the 2013 NFL Draft last night with the 16^th overall selection – after exchanging first-round draft positions with the St. Louis Rams. In the trade, Buffalo acquired the Rams’ 46^th overall and 222^nd overall selections while swapping third-round choices (71^st for 78^th).

–E.J. Manuel becomes the eighth Florida St. product drafted by Buffalo – including a pair of 2012 selections: LB Nigel Bradham and OL Zebrie Sanders.

–The Bills have now used the 16^th overall draft pick on four occasions: C Jim Ritcher (1980 – North Carolina State), RB Ronnie Harmon (1986 – Iowa), DB James (J.D.) Williams (1990 – Fresno State) and QB E.J. Manuel (2013 – Florida St.

–Bills RB C.J. Spiller takes fans behind-the-scenes of the making of the team’s 2013 season ticket marketing campaign on BuffaloBills.com. The recharged season ticket commercial aired during last night’s Draft Special and can be seen here >>>

–Buffalo WR T.J. Graham will host the second annual  ‘T.J. Graham Skills Challenge’ on Saturday, April 27^th in Raleigh, NC. Graham’s skills challenge will showcase high school football players from those the area as participants will compete in a variety of drills throughout the day. Graham will host a second event on May 25 in Buffalo, NY.

TODAY’S INTERVIEWS
QB E.J. Manuel – The Howard Simon Show – WGR 550  (Listen Here)
QB E.J. Manuel – Janet & Nick in the Morning – Kiss 98.5 (Listen Here)
9:15 AM – QB E.J. Manuel – The Break Room – WCMF (Rochester)
9:15 AM – Head Coach Doug Marrone – Mike & Mike in the Morning – ESPN
9:45 AM – QB E.J. Manuel – The Jeff Blair Show Fan590 (Toronto)
10:45 AM – QB E.J. Manuel – The Dan Patrick Show

PHOTOS OF THE DAY

Bills first-round draft selection QB E.J. Manuel poses for a picture with two fans inside of Entercom Radio studios this morning prior to his radio tour.

Bills first-round pick QB E.J. Manuel (right) with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell with a No. 1 Buffalo Bills jersey after being selected by the team with the 16^th overall draft pick at Radio City Music Hall last night.

QUOTES OF THE DAY
On what appeals to him about the Buffalo Bills:
“Well the system that Coach Hackett was teaching me when I went up to Buffalo and met with him. That is probably what intrigued me the most. I actually called my agent as soon as I finished with him and I said, ‘Man, I really hope Buffalo takes me because I feel like I can fit into the system perfectly.’ Like I said, I am going to learn from the veteran guys they already have and just go out there to try and earn the respect of my teammates.” – Bills first-round draft selection QB E.J. Manuel

On what it means to be the first quarterback selected in the 2013 NFL Draft:
“It means a lot. This goes down as probably the best day, the best night of my life. To be the first quarterback taken in the NFL Draft, to be a first rounder, to be taken by the Buffalo Bills considering where I started from in January to this day now is…I am just so proud and happy for the team I have and the people who helped me get to this point.” – Bills first-round draft selection QB E.J. Manuel

On the leadership characteristics QB E.J. Manuel displays:
“Well obviously we are excited about adding him to our team and he does bring, like you said, a lot of intangibles. I think one of the things that you see when he walks into a room is just his presence. And again, he has had great leadership ability at Florida St. where he has been amongst his teammates. I think that one of the important things when he comes in here is, again, earning the trust of our players. I think that is the first thing that you have to do. He will come in here and he will compete for the quarterback position. He has a lot in front of him. It is a situation where he is going to have to earn the trust of the players on this football team already and he is going to have to obviously learn the system.” – Bills Head Coach Doug Marrone

On what he likes about QB E.J. Manuel and when they had him pinned as the top quarterback on the team’s board:
“As you know we did a lot of work on these guys. We felt like we knew them about as well as you could from a distance. This guy to us has got the upside to be whatever you want him to be. All these quarterbacks had good qualities. We said that from the start. This is a guy that can do both. It was when we finished the process. We wanted to see everybody in the same situation. Bringing them (in), talking to them and going over it. We did not make a decision until after we finished the last visit with the quarterbacks.” – Bills General Manager Buddy Nix

 DAILY LINKS
Buffalo News-Bills get their QB: Manuel 

Buffalo News-Credit Bills for taking bold path

Rochester D&C-Buffalo Bills select Florida State quarterback E.J. Manuel

Niagara Gazette-Manuel’s the right choice

Canandaigua Daily Messenger-Thoughts on the Bills picking Manuel

Toronto Sun-E.J. Manuel first QB taken — by Bills!

Syracuse Post-Standard-Doug Marrone, Bills pass on former Syracuse quarterback Ryan Nassib who goes undrafted

Erie Times News-Surprises for Browns, Bills, but not Steelers

Tallahassee Democrat-FSU’s first-round picks: Manuel, Werner, Rhodes

Orlando Sentinel-FSU’s EJ Manuel first QB taken in NFL Draft, while Gators’ Sharrif Floyd drops

Miami Herald-Buffalo Bills make splash, take FSU’s EJ Manuel in first round

USA Today-E.J. Manuel first (and only) QB drafted in 1st round

Associated Press-Bills select QB Manuel with 16th pick in draft

Associated Press-Tears of relief for Manuel in NFL draft 1st round

CBS Sports-Bills gets crafty to get the guy they wanted all along

Sports Illustrated-With GM seats burning, Bills and Dolphins go bold

Yahoo! Sports-E.J. Manuel surprisingly breaks away from crop of mediocre QBs to land spot in Buffalo

BuffaloBills.com-Bills get QB in round one, draft Manuel

BuffaloBills.com-Bills swing trade with Rams, trade down to 16

BuffaloBills.com-Kelsay follows in Hansen’s footsteps at Radio City

BuffaloBills.com-Buddy Nix and Doug Marrone comment on drafting E.J. Manuel

BuffaloBills.com-E.J. Manuel: ”I am so proud to be a Buffalo Bill”

Audio/Video/Photo Clip
BuffaloBills.com
50 Yard Finish: Stretching warm-up
Bills Roundup: Draft Day One Recap
Nix and Marrone Comment on Manuel Pick
E.J. Manuel Conference Call
2013 Draft profile: Quarterback E.J. Manuel, Florida St.
Buffalo Bills draft E.J. Manuel No. 16 in the 2013 NFL Draft
Bills Focus: Buddy Nix on Trade Talk
The John Murphy Show April 25

WGR 550
Bills Trade Down, Grab Manuel at 16 Overall
Buscaglia: Bills’ candidates for 41 and 46
4/26 EJ Manuel joins us in studio to talk about being picked by the Bills, being an NFL player, and Hackett’s system
4/26 Joe B talks about EJ Manuel and who the Bills could target in the following rounds

Kiss 98.5
Buffalo Bills #1 Pick QB E.J. Manuel

 NFL.com
Buffalo Bills draft EJ Manuel No. 16 in the 2013 NFL Draft

 WIVB
Bills select QB Manuel with 16th pick
Bills trade down from 8th to 16th

 WKBW
Russo Reaction: EJ Manuel pick
Bills Nix, Marrone talk about addition of EJ Manuel
Bills Pick EJ Manuel
Bills Trade down in 1st Round

 WGRZ
Bills Select Quarterback EJ Manuel
Take 2: Bills Lower Risk and Raise the Stakes

WHAM
Bills Select QB Manuel With 16th Pick In Draft

 WROC
WROC interviews Bills QB of future in NYC

 WHEC
Bills select quarterback E.J. Manuel with 16th pick in draft
No secret: Bills are QB-focused entering NFL draft

 YNN
Bills draft QB EJ Manuel

 Additional Clips
Inside The Bills
Mayock thinks E.J. can be special, Manuel’s leadership evident, Manuel’s big arm will help in Buffalo, Manuel jersey number, What Bills want in a QB, Bills goal is to land 3 starters, Starts and comp. pct. matter in QB evals, Former GM-Players on the move tonight, Some QB metrics that favor Manuel, Nassib, Mock Draft Watch: Final summary, Bills QB decision-”Million Dollar Question”, Manuel sees himself as early pick, What numbers are available to Bills draftees?, Why trading back so attractive this year, Dansby update, McShay’s final mock has QB to Bills, Mort: Bills pick at 8 attracting attention

 Press Coverage (Buffalo News)
E.J. Manuel an elite specimen in Sport Science laboratory
E.J. Manuel talks to the media
ESPN’s Todd McShay rips Bills for making E.J. Manuel first QB taken
Video: Bucky Gleason, Milt Northrop react to E.J. Manuel pick
Video: News sports reporters react to Bills picking E.J. Manuel
Video: Scouting report of E.J. Manuel
Video: Sully from One Bills Drive
Bills pick quarterback E.J. Manuel with first pick
Video: Gaughan on what the Bills might do in NFL Draft
Audio: Bills, NFL draft preview on ESPN Radio in Albany
Karlos Dansby, Bills unable to agree on contract — for now
Jim Kelly suggests Bills draft a WR first, omits Ryan Nassib

 ESPN AFC East Blog
Doug Marrone era hinges on EJ Manuel
Twitter: Mixed reviews on Bills’ EJ Manuel
Bills surprise with QB Manuel

 Fox Sports Florida
FSU’s EJ Manuel selected by Bills, first QB drafted

 Around the League (NFL.com)
EJ Manuel a surprise pick by Buffalo Bills at No. 16

 Pro Football Talk
E.J. Manuel is the first quarterback selected, taken by the Buffalo Bills with 16th pick
Glut of new decision-makers leads to more mystery
Karlos Dansby and Bills will keep talking

 Kryk Slants
In draft-floor interview, newest Buffalo Bills QB E.J. Manuel says his visit to Buffalo might have been the clincher

 Buffalo Rumblings
2013 NFL Draft: best remaining players, Bills team needs
2013 NFL Draft results: Bills’ E.J. Manuel only Round 1 QB
2013 NFL Draft trade: Bills, Rams swap picks
2013 NFL Draft live chat for Buffalo Bills fans

 AFC East Daily
Bills pick E.J. Manuel as first QB off draft board

–Bills RB C.J. Spiller takes fans behind-the-scenes of the making of the team’s 2013 season ticket marketing campaign on BuffaloBills.com. The recharged season ticket commercial aired during last night’s Draft Special and can be seen here >>>

–Buffalo WR T.J. Graham will host the second annual  ‘T.J. Graham Skills Challenge’ on Saturday, April 27^th in Raleigh, NC. Graham’s skills challenge will showcase high school football players from those the area as participants will compete in a variety of drills throughout the day. Graham will host a second event on May 25 in Buffalo, NY.

TODAY’S INTERVIEW
6:00 PM – TE Scott Chandler – ‘Game On’ with Rod Mawhood (610 Talk Niagara Falls) 

PHOTO OF THE DAY

Buffalo Bills RB C.J. Spiller took part in a photo shoot and video for this year’s season ticket commercial which aired during last night’s draft special. This year’s slogan: The 2013 Buffalo Bills are recharged.  That makes this more than a new season – it’s the start of a new era of Bills football.  There’s a new energy, new leadership and a renewed commitment to excellence. The recharged commercial can be viewed here >>>.

QUOTES OF THE DAY
On the passing of Buffalo News Columnist Larry Felser:
“I am deeply saddened to hear the news of the passing of Larry Felser. Larry was there at the beginning of the American Football League and along with fellow reporters such as Will McDonough and others, played an important role in the growth of our league. He was the consummate professional—tough, but fair, and never one to shy away from clearly stating his opinion. I had tremendous respect for Larry and we developed a deep friendship that lasted throughout our lifetimes. We shared some great laughs over the years and that’s what I am remembering most today about Larry. I will truly miss him. My deepest sympathies and condolences go out to his lovely wife, Beverly, and their family.” – Bills Owner Ralph Wilson, Jr. 

On the fine-tuning process of the draft board and preparing for the eighth overall pick:
“What we’ll do is take the total body of work. The resume from this guy from when we started this process last May, through the fall, through the all-star games and the combine, through the spring information from pro days and visits, and say, ‘From everything you’ve seen, how do you feel about this guy?’ That’s when we fine tune it, and that’s when we put a final grade on a guy. Everybody always asks me, is it hectic on draft day? And the answer is no. We’re well prepared and we have the board set for our top eight players. As the players get called, we start taking them off our board, and then it becomes our pick. Usually, about one pick before us, we start looking at who’s up there. And there are usually those two or three guys that we thought were the best eight players up there. That’s when the discussion goes, which player out of these two or three guys will we go for.” – Bills Assistant General Manager Doug Whaley via The John Murphy Show (4/24)

DAILY LINKS
Buffalo News-Ignoring quarterbacks in draft leaves Bills with imperfect 10

 Buffalo News-Team building doesn’t end after last pick

 Buffalo News-Scout’s honor: It’s tough to rate QBs

 Buffalo News-Only bad move is not picking a quarterback

 Buffalo News-Offense scouting report

 Buffalo News-Defensive scouting report

 Buffalo News-Larry Felser, iconic former News sports columnist, dies

 Rochester D&C-Will the Buffalo Bills pick a quarterback?

 Toronto Sun-Top prospects spill about Bills visits

 CBS Sports-Why Buffalo Can’t Afford to Spend Its First Pick on Nassib

 Olean Times Herald-Bills scored a big break from schedule-maker

 BuffaloBills.com-Bills poised to add offense

 BuffaloBills.com-Backers around the country to host Bills draft parties

 BuffaloBills.com-Bills owner Ralph Wilson, Jr. on the passing of Larry Felser

Audio/Video/Photo Clip
BuffaloBills.com
C.J. Spiller 2013 Season Ticket Commercial
Phil Savage Gives Draft War Room Insight
Doug Whaley Says “Trading Down” Talks Have Started
Tony Pauline Has Inside Info On The Bills Draft
The John Murphy Show April 24

 WGR 550
Buscaglia: Bills’ best and worst case scenarios on Day 1
NFL Draft Podcast – One Day Away!
4/24 Joe Buscaglia discusses whether the Bills should wait next year for quarterback, when the Bills should target a tight end in the draft and the possibility the Bills might trade down
Joe Buscaglia Spreads Draft Fever like Smallpox

 WIVB
Bills still a mystery before Draft

 WGRZ
Bills Eye Syracuse QB Nassib

 WHAM
No secret: Bills are QB-focused entering NFL draft

Additional Clips
Inside The Bills
“Draft will be great theatre”-Doug Whaley, Final thoughts on QBs from Bills Asst. GM, “It takes two to move in the draft”-Whaley, Whaley-”Draft Board is set”-fine tuning is final step, Marrone’s role in draft room, Draft smoke screens big right now, Nix: Even more QB homework has been done, ‘No Huddle’ debuts on SiriusXM, Casserly on Bills trade down options, Remembering draft room hierarchy, Not much Manuel in M&T Bank draft challenge

Press Coverage (Buffalo News)
Ralph Wilson statement on today’s passing of Larry Felser
Daily draft poll: Should the Bills move up or down in the order?
Channeling Buddy: Collegiate vets from the South will rise again
A fundamental concern with the Bills drafting Ryan Nassib

 BillsDaily.com
The Time Is Now To Take A QB

ESPN AFC East Blog
Wait … Bills now want QB Matt Barkley?

Around the League (NFL.com)
Bills reportedly eyeing Matt Barkley, not Ryan Nassib

 Buffalo Rumblings
2013 NFL Draft rumors: Doug Marrone likes E.J. Manuel
Mike Mayock 2013 NFL mock draft: Tavon Austin to Buffalo Bills
2013 NFL Draft rumors: Bills “seriously targeting” Matt Barkley
Todd McShay, Mel Kiper mock draft: Bills take QB, OG
Buffalo Bills draft picks 2013: best case scenarios 

Buffalo Sports Daily
Mayock Gives Bills Austin In Mock Draft
Report Says Bills Worried About Nassib Being “Poached” 

Pro Football Talk
Bills fear Jets will take Ryan Nassib
Longtime pro football writer Larry Felser passes away

 AFC East Daily
Quarterback E.J. Manuel gets in on smokescreening
Bills scout compares WR prospect to Eric Moulds

–Former Buffalo Bills QB Jim Kelly, WR Andre Reed and WR/ST Steve Tasker will host a new show airing on SIRIUSXM Radio (Ch. 88) called “No Huddle.” The “No Huddle” program will make its debut tonight with a special preview episode at 7:00 PM ET. It will continue to air in its weekly timeslot during the 2013 NFL season.

–Bills WR T.J. Graham will host the second annual  ‘T.J. Graham Skills Challenge’ on Saturday, April 27^th in Raleigh, NC. Graham’s skills challenge will showcase high school football players from those the area as participants will compete in a variety of drills throughout the day. Graham will host a second event on May 25 in Buffalo, NY.

PHOTO OF THE DAY

Buffalo Bills National Scout Darrell Moody (top right) and College Scouts Brian Fisher (bottom left), Theo Young (top right) and Brad Forsyth (bottom right) participated in a roundtable pre-draft media session at One Bills Drive yesterday.

QUOTE OF THE DAY
On what his mindset has been this offseason:
“Doug Whaley sent me a challenge. He said when he was in Pittsburgh they drafted a guy in the third round named Mike Wallace. As a speed guy he has been…he is not a very small speed guy. He is of long stature, very similar to myself. He told me to kind of compare ourselves and figure out what our differences were. I kind of took that to heart saying, ‘I have wanted to be that type of player and more.’ So I figured it out and I am trying to improve on it to get to where he is.” – Bills WR T.J. Graham via The John Murphy Show on 4/23

 DAILY LINKS
Buffalo News-Bills may add Dansby to linebacking corps  

Buffalo News-George Hasiotis on waterfront stadium

Associated Press-No secret: Bills are QB-focused entering NFL draft

The Record-Kitchener boy, school mingle with NFL star

BuffaloBills.com-Chris Brown’s 8th annual mock draft

BuffaloBills.com-Spiller spreads PLAY 60 message in Ontario

BuffaloBills.com-Bills host free agent LB Karlos Dansby

Audio/Video/Photo Clip
BuffaloBills.com
Behind the scenes: Photo shoot with C.J. Spiller
2013 Draft Preview: WR Cordarrelle Patterson
The John Murphy Show April 23 

WGR 550
Scout Session: Hear it from the Bills
NFL Draft Podcast – Top 8 Mock
CAPACCIO: First Round’s On Me (mock draft and Bills thoughts)
4/23 Joe B on his latest mock draft, QB options, and “you don’t take a guard at 8 overall!”
4/23 Joe Buscaglia on why the Bills need to draft a QB
John Clayton on 1983 and upcoming NFL Drafts

CTV News
Football star in Kitchener

 WGRZ
Bills QB Focused Entering Draft

 YNN
Moving around in the draft?

 Additional Clips
Inside The Bills
LSU LB is “instinctive”-Bills Scout, Bills scout: “Manuel has run dynamic”, Bills scout: QB Manuel “not a finished product”, 30 for 30 features ’83 QB class, Jim Kelly, Alumni, Jills, on-hand for Roswell event

Talkin’ TV (Buffalo News)
Bills’ schedule has multiple local TV winners

 NFL Canada
Spiller wins over Pats fan

 Press Coverage (Buffalo News)
Kelly, Reed, Tasker join for weekly NFL radio show
Bills court potential key addition in LB Karlos Dansby

 Pro Football Talk
Report: Five teams in top 12 want to move down

 Buffalo Rumblings
Buffalo Bills draft picks 2013: best case scenarios
2013 NFL Draft: Buffalo Bills Top 8 big board

 Buffalo Sports Daily
Final 2013 NFL Mock Draft (3 Rounds)

–Free Agent LB Karlos Dansby is visiting with Buffalo Bills personnel today.

–Bills WR T.J. Graham will host the second annual  ‘T.J. Graham Skills Challenge’ on Saturday, April 27^th in Raleigh, NC. Graham’s skills challenge will showcase high school football players from the area as participants will compete in a variety of drills throughout the day. Graham will host a second event on May 25^th in Buffalo, NY. 

PHOTOS OF THE DAY

Bills Head Coach Doug Marrone (right) was a guest on yesterday’s edition of Around the League on NFL Network with host Andrew Siciliano (left). Full Interview Available Here>>>

 
Bills RB C.J. Spiller participated in the NFL’s Take a Player to School Program yesterday at W.T. Townshend Public School in Kitchener, Ontario. Spiller visited the grade four classroom of sweepstakes winner Ronan Freeborn, spoke to the entire school and led the day’s NFL ‘Play 60′ activities.

QUOTE OF THE DAY                                                                                                                                           On last week’s voluntary veteran mini-camp:
“I was just happy with the way the whole overall team came in with a good attitude, their tempo and just the way they worked. If we continue to work like that, I think obviously we have taken great steps in the right direction.”  - Bills Head Coach Doug Marrone via NFL Network’s Around the League (4/22)

 DAILY LINKS
The Mississauga News-NFL star C.J. Spiller visits school 

Toronto Sun-Why the Bills should take a QB at No. 8

BuffaloBills.com-Draft Profile: Mingo a pass rush force

BuffaloBills.com-Mock Draft Watch 10.0

Audio/Video/Photo Clip 
BuffaloBills.com
2013 Draft Preview: OLB Jarvis Jones
The John Murphy Show April 22

 WGR 550
NFL Draft Podcast – How ’bout a trade?
Bills’ Marrone raved about Barkley in September
Jerry Sullivan- “There are no franchise Guards”
Jerry Sullivan on What the Bills might do in the Draft 

YNN
Bills Weigh Options as Draft Approaches 

Additional Clips
 Inside The Bills
NFL Network & NFL.com Draft Coverage, Cosell mocks OLB to Bills, Nix: no debating importance of QB, Marrone on NFL Network

 ESPN AFC East Blog
McShay’s mock: Bills take QB Ryan Nassib?

 ESPN Playbook
Stephon Gilmore Talks about His Draft Experience and Hugging the Commissioner

 Buffalo Rumblings
Greg Cosell mock draft projects Barkevious Mingo to Bills
2013 NFL Draft debate: Matt Barkley vs. Ryan Nassib

 Yahoo! Sports
If, And, But: The Buffalo Bills Will Be in the Playoffs in 2013

–Bills RB C.J. Spiller will take part in an NFL Play 60 program and Take a Player to School on today in Kitchener, Ontario.

–Buffalo WR Stevie Johnson launched The SJ13 Wrap-Up Show on Sunday on SIRIUSXM’s Hip-Hop Nation. The show features Johnson playing his 13 favorite hip-hop jams as well as the receiver giving his take on the world of hip-hop and sports.

TODAY’S INTERVIEW
5:15 PM – Head Coach Doug Marrone – NFL Network ‘Around the League’

PHOTO OF THE DAY

W.T. Townsend Public School in Kitchener, ON welcomes Bills RB C.J. Spiller today as the running back is participating in the NFL’s Take a Player to School Program. Spiller will be visiting the grade four classroom of sweepstakes winner Ronan Freeborn, and then speaking to the entire school. Spiller will also lead the day’s NFL ‘Play 60′ activities.

QUOTE OF THE DAY
On visiting W.T. Townshend Public School in Kitchener, ON with the Take a Player to School program:
“It is going to be very exciting. I am definitely looking forward to it—to meeting Ronan, his family, going to his school, meeting his classmates and the principals. Also doing the assemblies and taking questions. Just giving a little background in my history of how I grew up and stuff like that. It is definitely exciting. He is going to be the top dog for the rest of the year because like you said, nobody is going to get to ride to school in a limo and all of that stuff.” –via FAN 590 4/19

DAILY LINKS
Buffalo News-Bills’ Wood moves to front of the line 

Buffalo News-Waiting on a quarterback would be risky for Bills

Buffalo News-Plenty of defensive line talent in the draft

Rochester D&C-Could Ryan Nassib be the Buffalo Bills’ next quarterback?

Auburn Citizen-With the 8th pick in the 2013 NFL Draft, the Buffalo Bills should select…

Auburn Citizen-Buffalo Bills 2013 schedule: The good, bad and ugly

Niagara Gazette-Wheatfield’s Mulkey works out with Buffalo Bills

Niagara Gazette-Bills schedule one to savor

BuffaloBills.com-Graham impresses early

BuffaloBills.com-Mock Draft Watch 9.0

BuffaloBills.com-Marrone and staff push tempo early

BuffaloBills.com-Opportunity big for Bradham

Audio/Video/Photo Clip
BuffaloBills.com
2013 Draft Preview: OT Eric Fisher
2013 Draft Preview: CB Dee Milliner
2013 Draft Preview: WR Tavon Austin
Mary Wilson continues to empower young girls
The John Murphy Show April 19

WGR 550
Buscaglia: How a Revis trade affects the Bills
NFL Draft Podcast – Needs besides QB

WIVB
Change at One Bills Drive

YNN
Revis’ affect on the Bills draft

Additional Clips
Inside The Bills
Stevie Johnson makes Sirius XM Radio hosting debut, Kolb: “Up-tempo offense helps young players”, Mayock: Bills in tough spot at 8, Fan Friday 4-19, Kolb talks about no-huddle offense, Mayock wouldn’t take QB for Bills at 8

Press Coverage (Buffalo News)
The Buffalo News is your source for draft coverage

 Around the League (NFL.com)
Fred Jackson: New Buffalo Bills coaches are ‘different’

 Pro Football Talk
Bills liking life under Doug Marrone

 Kryk Slants
Sizing up Top 10 QBs in NFL draft

 Buffalo Rumblings
2013 NFL Draft rumors: “Growing belief” Bills will take Ryan Nassib
Landry Jones 2013 NFL Draft scouting report
2013 NFL Draft: what can the Bills expect at No. 8?
2013 NFL Draft rumors: Buffalo Bills like Matt Barkley 

AFC East Daily
Bills’ defensive players tout Pettine’s new playbook