Inside The Bills

Losman not on UFL roster

The fledgling United Football League held their inaugural “draft” last night, but J.P. Losman does not appear on any of the four rosters… yet.

The draft wasn’t exactly a draft in the traditional sense as there was a pointed effort by the UFL to balance the rosters for better competitive play.

All of the rosters are right here, and though Losman, who was rumored to be playing for Jim Fassel’s Las Vegas club, does not appear on the Las Vegas roster or any other. However, the Las Vegas club curiously does not have a quarterback. Hmmmmmm.

The other three clubs all have at least one signal caller on their roster as a result of the draft. San Francisco in fact has three quarterbacks. Perhaps Losman had second thoughts or is “negotiating” contract terms.  

Of course the UFL is such an underpublicized league it’s hard to know what to think. There are rumors that Michael Vick may sign with Orlando in July as well as Tim Rattay.

UFL Draft tonight

For those wondering if J.P. Losman will in fact be headed to the upstart United Football League, the draft is being held tonight at 6:30pm.

That according to UFL Commissioner Michael Huyghue, who tweeted as much today. Of course there’s likely to be no live coverage of the draft. It’s also being considered a “draft” in a bit looser sense as the league is making sure that the team’s are as balanced as possible.

Losman has been rumored to be going to play for former NFL coach Jim Fassel, the head coach of the UFL’s Las Vegas franchise.

Why UFL good for Losman right now

With the rumors continuing to swirl that free agent QB J.P. Losman is going to sign with Las Vegas of the upstart United Football League, I think it might be the best place for him to be right now for two reasons.

First, and most important, if he does sign with Las Vegas, as has been rumored, he’ll be playing under Jim Fassel. Fassel is known as a quarterback maximizer. A coach that knows how to get the most out of quarterbacks.

When J.P. Losman was appointed the starter with the Bills in 2005, the offensive staff at the time tried to make him a pocket quarterback. It proved to be a long, arduous process that never panned out. The strengths of Losman’s game were not maximized.

Now I’m not trying to blame Losman’s failures solely on how he was coached. Losman had more than his share of opportunities to succeed in Buffalo. But Fassel is known as a coach that recognizes his quarterback’s strengths and maximizes them through his offensive scheme. He won’t put a square peg in a round hole.

For Losman, Fassel might be just the guy he needs in his corner.

Second, the only way Losman is going to change the minds of the naysayers out there that maintain he is not a consistent quarterback is to be on the field week in and week out. That’s not going to happen right now in the NFL. He simply won’t get that kind of opportunity, with everyone’s lasting memory of Losman being his sack and fumble that led to the loss to the Jets, not to mention his 10-23 record as a starter with Buffalo.

But in the UFL he’ll be on the field every week with a chance to show when in the lineup every week he’s capable. I’m not saying it’s going to happen, but knowing J.P. he’s the type of player that always wants to show you he can do it rather than telling you he can do it.

The UFL looks to be the only place right now where he’ll be able to do that in a game setting. If it happens I give him credit for going that route. Sometimes you’ve got to take a step back before you can take another forward again.

Fan Friday 5-29

Two weeks of OTAs are down, with only one full week to go before the mandatory minicamp. The offseason is moving along quickly. On to your questions.

1. chris
 
How concerned are you about our back up QB situation…
Geo… Fort Myers..FL

CB: I would still like to see more of Ryan Fitzpatrick in this offensive system before passing judgment, but Fitzpatrick was a backup candidate that I liked going into the free agency period. So I’m not worried at all. His arm looked like it needed a week to warm up in the OTA setting, but he’s been much more accurate and decisive here in week two.

I think he’s getting a better handle on the system and he throws a nice fade ball in the end zone. He’s not as physically gifted as Trent, but I think he’s more than capable. Gibran could challenge him, but I think ultimately Fitzpatrick will be the backup.

 
2. Chris,
How much input do you think Buddy Nix had in this year’s draft of the Bills?  I’m curious to know, because of the success that the San Diego franchise had when he was working for them.  Hopefully, his success there follows him here to Buffalo.

Also the axiom that receivers aren’t successful until they’ve been in the league for three years appears to be true more often than not.  Is Shawn Nelson following in James Hardy’s footsteps regarding having a difficult time picking up the complexities of an NFL offense.  Do you agree and do you think his impact will be as minimal as Hardy’s was last year? 
Thanks,
Ed White

CB: I believe that Nix had some input, but he joined Buffalo late in the draft preparation process, so I think his depth of scope will be greater in future years. There’s no question however, that Nix is a scouting mind that Tom Modrak respects and Nix has a firm grasp of the talent down south, where in most cases it’s richest.

As for your receiver axiom, that’s usually the case. Anybody remember Eric Moulds’ breakout year? It was 1998, his third season in the league. Shawn Nelson is working hard here in OTAs, but his head is swimming.

Tight ends coach Charlie Coiner is constantly on him for his route execution and assignment errors. As more college players come to the NFL from the spread offense, more and more of them will struggle to adjust to a pro style offense in year one.

The route concepts and reading coverages are all foreign to rookies that come from that system. It’s going to take some time with Nelson I believe, so I don’t know that anyone should expect too much from him as a rookie.

3. How well are T.O. and Edwards getting along in OTAs? Does Edwards look comfortable with me and do you think T.O. thinks Edwards is “good enough to throw to him.”
 
Thanks
 
Wes Dickson

CB: Judging by the last two days, they’re doing very well. Owens has five touchdowns. Granted the cornerback contingent for the Bills is beat up with McGee, Youboty and McKelvin on the shelf right now, but the 70-yard touchdown play on Friday was impressive. I think both Edwards and Owens have adjusted to one another quite well considering the short time frame. I believe that can partly be attributed to Owens’ experience. He’s had to adjust to different QBs in the past, so it’s old hat for him. And judging by Edwards’ 50-yard bomb he has the arm to get it to T.O..

4. Chris,
Wonder if you can give me any progress report on Rookie FA OT Joel Bell. Only thing I’ve been able to find about him is the Bills signing him after the draft.  I’m sure he will not be a factor this year but I beleive that this kid has some serious upside.

Also, no mention of X Omon??? Is he getting any reps in the OTA’s?? Is he the off man out this year with the Bills signing D Rhodes??
 
Last, any idea what’s happening with JP Losman?? Just wondering.
 
Sorry, hard to stay on top of the Bills here in PackerLand, WI.

Thanks for your time,
Tom Blanchard

CB: Joel Bell has been running with the third team offense at right tackle. He’s been working hard in the practice setting, but he’s still a bit raw with respect to technique. He’s still young in football as he only played two years of high school ball and then played at the 1-AA level. The NFL is a big step up, but he’s doing his best to adjust.

Xavier Omon has done well. He’s running fourth on the depth chart behind Lynch, Jackson and Rhodes, so he hasn’t seen a ton of action, but got more carries Friday with Rhodes not in attendance.

He looks stronger as he’s added muscle in the offseason, if that’s possible since he was pretty bulky to begin with. It’s hard to assess the effectiveness of backs in the OTA setting because it’s not full speed with no pads. So hitting the hole isn’t the same.

J.P. Losman is a free agent as of right now. Haven’t heard of any teams expressing interest of late. Be interesting to see if he has to wait for an injury at QB in an NFL training camp to get a shot.

5. Hey Chris,

I was wondering what you think the chances are of the Bills actually signing Pisa Tinoisamoa? After he came in for a visit I haven’t heard too much else about him from Buffalo’s end. I know that the Bears are the other known team that has shown as much interest as the Bills. But I feel that he’d most likely get more playing time here than in Chicago and that because of that he’d be more interested in Buffalo. I think that he’d give the Bills some pretty solid depth with amongst linebackers with Ellison being a more than serviceable backup. Thanks.

Andrew
Kenmore, NY
CB: I think Tinoisamoa will have to make a decision in the next week or so. With offseason camps ending soon, I’d like to think he’d want to get in and get his feet wet even though both teams have defenses that are similar to what he played in St. Louis.

Schematically he’s a fit for either team. He also played under Bears head coach Lovie Smith directly, who was his defensive coordinator his first couple of years in the league. Perry Fewell was also on that staff as a DBs coach.

I think both teams offer a legitimate chance to start, but he’d likely be just a two down player on both teams. I’m wondering if Tinoisamoa is holding out hope that another team expresses interest late in the game like Tampa Bay, which again plays a similar system and could use linebacker help after casting off Cato June and Derrick Brooks.

I do have to say though that I don’t get the feeling that the Bills or Bears see Tinoisamoa as a high priority signing. Otherwise he would have been signed already.

Landing spot for Losman?

With the market not even lukewarm for free agent QB J.P. Losman, there’s one destination that may just be looking for another veteran arm.

The Detroit Lions are reportedly still interested in adding a veteran quarterback… as a number three. Lions GM Martin Mayhew told the Oakland Press’ Dave Birkett that he’s “actively looking” for to add another veteran signal caller to the mix.

Now Losman, who has started 33 games in his career, may choose to wait for a backup position to open up. However, with Daunte Culpepper and a wet behind the ears rookie in Matt Stafford on the roster, the third QB role in Detroit might be the most likely to potentially see playing time.

Two teams have expressed interest in Losman

The Denver Broncos have been interested in Bills free agent QB J.P. Losman for some time this offseason, though it cooled somewhat after they decided to sign Chris Simms. A league source tells me their interest could increase post-draft if they don’t land a quarterback in the draft this weekend. There’s one other team that has expressed interest in Losman as well.

The Carolina Panthers have been in touch with Losman’s representatives according to a source, but the interest is only preliminary. The Panthers have been hindered all offseason by the stalemate involving Julius Peppers. His franchise player contract is binding up other moves the club would like to make. So if they’re able to move Peppers in a trade on draft weekend, Carolina might then be able to make some decisions.

The Panthers interest is a bit curious seeing that they have Jake Delhomme, a veteran backup in Josh McCown and a young third quarterback with promise in Matt Moore, who has very good field vision among some other strong attributes.

Unless Carolina is happy to go to camp with another veteran signal caller on the roster or might not have long term plans for McCown, I’m not sure I understand the interest.

I thought once the Cutler trade went through that Chicago would be interested in Losman. Knowing Cutler is a strong-armed QB, I would think the Bears would want a backup with similar physical skills so they wouldn’t have to change the offense much should Cutler go down with an injury, especially knowing the windy conditions that exist up there. But Chicago doesn’t have him on their radar as of yet from what I’ve been told.

Fan Friday 4-10

Alright the draft is two weeks away, but we’ve got trade talk and draft stuff going strong in this week’s edition. You know where to go with your questions seeing as I have over 500 emails in my inbox. It’s AskChris@bills.nfl.net. Let’s roll.

1. Chris,

I just saw online that Denver has been shopping their 26 yr old TE, Scheffler. Is there any chance Buffalo would be interested in him??

Thanks for your time.

Wayne

CB: I think it makes sense for Buffalo to be interested. He’s certainly established himself as a game-breaking passing option. There were rumors swirling that the Bills were negotiating some kind of deal when it was thought that his agent Bus Cook was in town. Cook wasn’t here however, so nothing came of it.

I like Scheffler as a player, but keep in mind he’s not a blocker by trade, so whether he can help you on the line is a big question mark and Buffalo needs a blocker at tight end as much as a game breaking pass catcher. Still he’d be a good acquisition. The question is at what price?

I’d give up a conditional fourth for him, which could increase to a 3rd depending on his production in 2009. But with a deep class of pass catching tight ends this year in the draft it’s a buyer’s market for Scheffler even as good as he is.  If you can get the upper hand in that deal though an NFL team should jump on it.

2. Hi Chris,

Just wondering if the Bills will be looking to add a safety. I had heard that Donte Whitner might be making the permanent move to FS. Is this true? If so, will the Bills be looking to add a safety through the draft of FA? Are they comfortable with Bryan Scott starting at the SS?

I think adding a guy like Sean Jones or Jermaine Phillips might be a solid addition.

Thanks for keeping us all informed,
Matt in Rochester

CB: I think the coaching staff was pretty happy with what they got out of the combination of Bryan Scott at SS and Whitner at FS, which was largely the tandem for the second half of the year when Donte didn’t have to fill in at nickel corner due to injury.

Unless they make an addition, which I’m not anticipating, I expect that to be the starting tandem in 2009. The reason I don’t see them addressing the safety position in the draft is because they have depth players on the roster already and there are more pressing positional needs.

3. Hey Chris,

I have a couple questions for you.

First, are you surprised to see that J.P. Losman has not visited any teams yet this offseason? He is only in his 5th season and has shown flashes of talent, which should have helped him out this offseason since there are few FA quarterbacks.

Second, do you see any FA o-lineman coming into Buffalo? I’m assuming that Buffalo’s greatest need is not on the line, but they might add some depth in the draft.

Thanks for your time,

Andrew
CB: Losman was to visit with the Broncos before the whole Cutler mess to possibly be signed as a backup, but before he could arrive in Denver for a visit the Broncos signed Chris Simms. Other than that I haven’t heard much.

I wonder if Chicago might now be a possibility since they have a strong-armed QB in Cutler, and might want to add a backup that can make the same throws in the offense in the event of an injury.

At worst I’d expect his phone to start ringing after the draft as teams are waiting to see what prospects they might be able to land. What’s hurting him are his last few performances for Buffalo, which included the dreadful offensive performance against Miami in Toronto and the Jets game that the Bills had won until…

I think he’ll land somewhere, but he’ll be a backup at best.

As for offensive linemen I still think Kendall Simmons is a possibility for depth, but I see the Bills addressing guard in the draft.

4. Hi Chris

Just wondering, why no mention of Marlin Briscoe as one of the Bills’ all time receivers? I realize his career with Buffalo was short before moving on to other NFL teams, but I remember him as incredibly talented, very  effectively using positioning and leaping ability to catch virtually  anything that was thrown near him. I think he is largely the reason Dennis Shaw was offensive rookie of  the year.

Mike DeWald
mdewald@roadrunner.com

CB: Marlin Briscoe did not make the list of nominees for wide receiver because he only spent three seasons in a Bills uniform. The parameters stated that a nominee had to spend at least four seasons in a Buffalo uniform. I didn’t make the rules, just relaying them to you. Hope that clears it up.

5.  Chris,
 
I can’t believe no one has talked much about Connor Barwin. He plays TE/DE and excels at both. The guy is 256 lbs, had 11 sacks last year, ran a 4.55 in the 40, jumped 40″ in the vert and just had an all around GREAT combine. Why isn’t anyone talking about this guy? Do you know if Buffalo has taken a good look at this guy? This one guy can fill the need for either TE or DE. How is this guy flying under the radar?
 
CB: I’m a fan of Barwin. I’ve blogged a few times about him. In fact if the Bills don’t get a top flight pass rusher in round one, I’m hopeful that Barwin is there to snatch up at 42 in the second. I’m not all that confident it will happen after his combine workout.

But I’d be very happy with him as a pass rushing addition. And trust me amongst NFL clubs he’s not flying under the radar. I think he could even crawl into the bottom of the first round.

Fan Friday 3-20

The draft is only about a month away, but there are still some free agent questions out there from you the fan. In addition to answering some of the more popular questions here, I’ve also been responding (as much as possible) personally to your emails as well. I’m a bit behind on them, but plowing through them as best I can.

Remember you can always email me at AskChris@bills.nfl.net on anything Bills. Here we go.

1. Hello Mr.Brown,
 
I would like to know what you think about the Julius Peppers situation in Carolina! Do you think the Bills would be bold enough to sign him, if he is available? Also I was watching NFL network and Mayock said that the TE’s in this draft class are mostly good receiving TE’s not so much blocking classic TE’s, wouldn’t it be more advantageous to pick the best available Offensive Lineman? To help the run and also keeping Trent upright. Since Fine and Schouman, I feel performed okay when given the chance.
 
Regards,
Paul K.
Montreal,Q.C. Canada

CB: First, the Julius Peppers situation. I don’t see the Bills as a serious player because Peppers is likely to get upwards of $13-14 million dollars a year in a new contract. That’s too steep for a lot of teams including Buffalo.

I believe the Bills will address their pass rush in the draft.

As for the tight end position in the draft, Mayock is right, there are a lot more pass catchers than blockers at the tight end position. I think that’s not necessarily a bad thing for the Bills, who have rarely if ever had a dynamic pass catching threat at the position.

I think Schouman and Fine are both good all-around tight ends, but I think the team would like to add a game breaking threat in the passing game there. Of course the staff considered Royal their best blocking tight end last year, which is why he retained the starting role in 2008. So even if they take a pass catching threat at the position, they will likely still be looking for a true in-line blocking TE too.

I think that’s why so many mock drafters have Pettigrew going to the Bills because he fills both of those roles better than anyone else in the draft for Buffalo. But if Buffalo stays at 11, I’m not sure the value is right to take him there.

2. Chris,
My question to you is: What if the Bills are on the clock at 11 and Maybin, Brown and Orakpo along with Defensive Tackle B.J.Raji are gone and one of the top Left Tackles, Jason Smith out of Baylor for example, is available; could you see the Bills drafting him and trading Jason Peters for a 1st round draft pick to a team that may need one like Detroit (20th) and Philadelphia (21st or 28th)?  There is no doubt that Peters is a gifted athlete but with another off season of potential hold outs by him and his agent, do you think it would be beneficial to the team to stop these distractions and get down to business?

Sincerely,
Dan

CB: That’s a tricky scenario. Jason Smith and Eugene Monroe won’t be there, but I understand your point. Michael Oher and Andre Smith should be there at 11, and with the way things are going regarding an extension for Jason Peters, what you’re proposing is more realistic than some might think.

If the Jason Peters situation is still unresolved come draft weekend, I can see the team moving him for a first and middle round pick, maybe more, maybe less. Acquiring an additional first round pick should give the Bills the luxury of taking one of the top four offensive tackles in the draft at 11.

I’d prefer Michael Oher to Smith because Oher is arguably the most athletic tackle in the draft. His instincts still need to be developed, but his athleticism makes up for a lot of those shortcomings that should get better in time. Oher could play on the left side, Smith cannot at this level as I see it.

Now keep in mind that they could address another position at 11 like linebacker in this scenario and get one of the bet of the bunch, whoever they determine that to be and if they’re down in the early 20’s with their other first round pick as you suggest, they could grab Arizona State OT Eben Britton, but he is more of a right tackle at the NFL level according to most scouts.

Things could certainly get very interesting for the Bills on draft weekend.

3.  Hey Chris,
 
I have seen all your blogs and answers to Fan Friday Questions on Brown, Orakpo and Maybin. Just wondering what your thoughts were on 3 other pretty good prospects: Michael Johnson, Paul Kruger and Tyson Jackson. Are they all stretches at #11, or is it conceivable that one of them may still be available in Rd 2?
If they were, it is possible to go after Raji at #11, a DE in Rd2 and maybe trade up to get one of the top 3 TE’s, Coffman maybe? Talk about hypothetical!
 
Randy
NL, CAN

CB: I think that Johnson and Kruger will both be available in round 2, but Jackson will be gone before the Bills pick at 42. Jackson is more of a 3-4 end anyway.

Johnson has freakish physical ability, but is raw and inconsistent. As a result I don’t know if he’ll be able to handle a full time role as a rookie, so that keeps him out of the first round.

Kruger’s upside is a bit limited as I see it. He’s got great straight line speed, but I’m not certain that he’s strong enough right now to hold the point against the run in the NFL. He’s also not that elite explosive type end (ran a 4.79 and 4.83) so he is probably a late 2nd to early 3rd round prospect.

A guy I’d consider in the round two is Cincinnati’s Connor Barwin. He’s more of the quick-twitch athlete you’re looking for to boost a pass rush. I think he could come in right away and help on passing downs, which is what Buffalo needs.

4. Chris,

What are your thoughts on the restructuring of Jason Peters’ contract?  I believe that his holding out at the beginning of the year impacted the team in a negative way.  It seemed that it ruined the whole chemistry of the O-line.  As we all know, it wasn’t until the Monday night game when the run game started to get going.  I wasn’t impressed all season with the protection of Trent Edwards.  Honestly, I don’t know how Peters was elected to the Pro-Bowl.  Do you foresee a possible trade, renegotiation, no action, or something else? Thanks for your time. 
-Joe Maciag

CB: From what I understand the two sides have yet to close the gap on a new contract. It wouldn’t surprise me if the Bills still work to come to a resolution until the NFL draft, and if there is no progress my feeling is they may look into trading him prior to draft weekend. It’ll be unfortunate if it comes to that, but it takes two parties to make an agreement work and if the Bills can’t get some kind of compromise from the Peters camp it doesn’t leave them with too many other alternatives. And I don’t believe they’d be interested in dragging a contract renegotiation through another season.

5. Chris

I know DE is the considered the most pressing need but you and others
have mentioned how the top guys in the draft may not be able to stand
up to the run or are straight ahead rushers, etc.  I’m just another
hopeless Bills fan, but if BJ Raji is available at 11, I’d take him. 
(Full disclosure:  I’m a BC grad but that’s pure coincidence in this
case.) Raji looks like a safer bet and more of a sure-fire thing.  If
Stroud and Raji are pushing in, it might free up the current DE’s. 
I’ve gotten a little sensitive to how the Bills have used some earlier
picks.

Kelley Yost
Fairport

CB: I’ve got no problem with taking Raji at 11 if he’s there and a couple of the top speed rushers are already gone. In fact I think he’s the best secondary option to Everette Brown, though Aaron Maybin is tempting.

Your point about Raji and Stroud is valid, but I still think you could add talent at end in the second round with a Connor Barwin, for example if you took Raji at 11. So I’m not opposed to that approach at all. Heck I wanted Haloti Ngata back in 2006 (no offense Donte). I just believe in getting your big men early.

6. Chris,
Does JP Losman have any suitors or teams expressing interest?  I mean I always supported JP and was actually excited when he got a shot to play this past year but he did so awful.  Is it a possibility we might see JP in the CFL???
Thanks
RF

CB: From what I’ve heard the Denver Broncos were interested in J.P. as a backup, but Chris Simms signed with them before Losman’s agent could enter into any hard core negotiations with Denver. Other than that I’ve heard very little as to interest in him by other teams.

I think his physical ability will convince some team to bring him in as a backup.

You are right that his play last year didn’t do much to help his cause so I’m not confident he could be part of a competition somewhere for a starter’s job. I think he’s got to take a backup role somewhere and hope he gets a chance to step on the field to prove he’s capable.

Fan Friday 1-16

Here’s the latest installment of Fan Friday. As most of you know by now you can email your questions to me at AskChris@bills.nfl.net. I try to respond to everyone either personally or here on Fan Friday.

1. Chris,    
     Do you think the Bills will sign a veteran QB in the off-season.  I realize that Trent has not done terrible job, but he has not exactly done a good job.  It seems like the game is moving too fast for him still and he doesn’t anticipate his receivers, he waits for them to be open, then throws it, and by the time the ball gets there the window is already closed.  Also, I wonder if he’s the long term solution for this team considering he’s always nicked up and doesn’t play well in cold weather.  Please tell me this team is going to get a play maker at QB like McNabb, Bills fans need some hope after this season.

CB: I don’t think a playmaker like Donovan McNabb is realistic because those kinds of players are usually not out on the free agent market. You usually have to give up something significant for that kind of talent. The Bills will be in the market for a backup quarterback because J.P. Losman will be looking for opportunities elsewhere.

I’ve stated a few times that I think Byron Leftwich might be the best available free agent this offseason. I say that because Kerry Collins only wants to be a starter, and he’s also a free agent. Now Leftwich might be able to find an opportunity where he’ll be given the chance to start (e.g. Chicago) and that would make Buffalo far less attractive, where I’m assuming only the backup job will be what’s offered.

So to expect to see some juggernaut QB get signed to play the role of backup is unrealistic as I see it. You may have to settle for a Ryan Fitzpatrick (who I like), Chris Simms or some other veteran that is accustomed to the backup role and would be more accepting of it.

2. Hey Chris,   
 
        A while back on Fan Friday you said something about we can’t compete for Haynesworth or Suggs in the offseason. My question is why not considering other teams sign a big player almost every year, we never really sign a player like that.  Also who do you think we can bring in during free agency considering we need another good DE to get to the QB.  And do you think we can spend the money to bring in Kurt Warner. We need a better QB that can throw touchdowns. Kurt Warner is a leader, that can throw a lot of TDs, Trent Edwards really doesn’t.
 
The needs as I see them are all over the board, but the biggest two are QB and DE

-Showtime

CB: I don’t disagree that there are several needs. Perhaps I should have been more clear with respect to Haynesworth and Suggs. First of all, I don’t think Haynesworth hits the market. He’s too vital for the Titans to let him go. I think Suggs could get away with Bart Scott and Ray Lewis also set to become free agents for Baltimore. Suggs would arguably cost the most due to the higher price tag for pass rushers.

The reason I don’t think the Bills will be able to compete for Suggs is there will be a number of teams competing for him on the free agent market if he gets there. The Bills historically don’t like to get into bidding wars for players, and there will be numerous bidders for Suggs. I’d be very happy with Bart Scott though to upgrade the linebacking unit.

3. Chris,
  I recently heard that JP Losman will not be returning to the Bills next season because of another poor showing during this past season.  Do you think any other team in the NFL would pick him up because of that reason?  Thanks.

Jim Brown
Lancaster, NY

CB: It has less to do with his poor showing and more to do with the fact that he’s an unrestricted free agent. Losman also wants to pursue an opportunity where he’ll have a legitimate chance to compete for a starting job.

Even though there are NFL teams in need of quarterback help, in light of how he performed this past season when called upon, I’m not confident he’ll be able to get such an opportunity. I think he’ll have to accept a backup job and hope he gets another shot. He’d be wise to go to a team with an offense that suits his strengths, which is making plays on the run and throwing downfield.

4. Hey Chris,
 
What’s up with all the criticism of Poz lately?  People on the message board are calling him a bust, you yourself said you’re “willing to give him another year.”  What are people expecting from this guy that we aren’t getting?  The dude is in on practically every tackle and there are way weaker positions on this defense than MLB.  Why aren’t people calling out a guy like Keith Ellison or Chris Kelsay instead?
-Muzz

CB: I was puzzled by the negativity over Poz too. I think those people that saw Poz play at Penn State were a bit spoiled because he not only made the routine plays, but the big ones as well, a lot of them. Now in the pros those big plays have been fewer and further between and people that saw him play in college think something is wrong. I personally think those big plays will become more and more frequent in year three. In essence this past season was his rookie year after playing all of 2 1/2 games in 2007. He was usually a half step away from making a lot of big plays in 2008. He said himself he wants to make more big plays and no one puts in more time in the offseason than this guy. I really believe it’ll come. Keep the faith.

5. Hey Chris,
I agree with your assessment of drafting a pass rushing defensive end. Who would you like to see in a Buffalo Bills uniform?
 
What the Bills need to do with the tight end position, Do you think we should draft, sign a FA, or get the current ones more involved?
 
God Bless The Buffalo Bills!
  
Alex – San Juan, P.R.

CB: First, I’d appreciate it if you could send some of your gorgeous weather up this way. We’re freezing our rears off in Buffalo today. Now back to business.

As I’ve said I’d like to see the Bills use their top pick on a pass rusher. I was very impressed from what I’ve seen from Everette Brown (FSU) and Brian Orakpo (Texas) this year. What I like about them is their brute strength, which will be important at the pro level when it comes to standing in there against the run.

I would like to do a little more research on them before definitively stating that I think they’re the best fit for the Bills. There are some other candidates as well.

If the Bills elect to go the free agent route, I’m concerned because I don’t see them winning a bidding war for Julius Peppers or Terrell Suggs as I stated above. The young free agent talent at DE is not overly impressive. Chauncey Davis had four sacks lining up opposite John Abraham. Antonio Smith had 3.5 sacks lining up opposite Bertrand Berry (who is also a FA, but on the downside) and Corey Smith (Detroit) isn’t much to get excited about either. That’s why I think the draft is the best route to take.

As for tight end the only free agent I’d consider this offseason is Bo Scaife (Tennessee). He had a productive year (58-561-2 TDs) though he’s not going to stretch the field and he’s not any bigger or better for that matter than Schouman or Fine. But his numbers have improved the last couple of years. But if the right game-breaking prospect is on the board in the second or third round (Chase Coffman – Missouri?) I’m not opposed to going that route at all.

Leftwich suitors lining up

Looks like the teams interested in soon to be free agent QB Byron Leftwich are already lining up as the Chicago Bears figure to be one team that’s interested and they may even offer him an opportunity to compete for the starting job, as their GM Jerry Angelo called QB their #1 offseason priority.

I’ve said in a couple of different places that he’s probably the best backup option on the market for the Bills this offseason, who will be in the market for a #2 QB with the anticipated departure of J.P. Losman.

But I can’t see the Bills giving Leftwich or any other backup QB candidate the promise that they’ll compete for the starting job, with Trent Edwards entrenched in that role.

So a player like Leftwich, who wants to start in the league again, will likely look for better opportunities to start elsewhere, thereby lessening the chances of Buffalo signing a backup of his caliber.

It’s unclear at this time if Buffalo is even interested in Leftwich, but he’s certainly had a promising season in the times he’s been called upon to step in for Ben Roethlisberger in Pittsburgh.

Fan Friday 1-9

As always you can send your questions to me at AskChris@bills.nfl.net and I’ll get back to you either personally or here on Fan Friday. Here we go.

1. Hey Chris,
 
I started to see draft talk on some sites this week. I know this is a bit premature, but how do you see the Bills going this year? Could this be a year were trading for a player may make more sense than making a first round pick?
 
Randy
NL, CAN

CB: I doubt that the Bills are going to cough up their first round pick in a trade this year. I’m hoping the Bills take a defensive end with their top pick, provided the depth of talent is still there. I wanted to Buffalo to take a defensive tackle in 2003, but by the time the Bills were on the clock they were all gone and they took McGahee. But that would be my preference this spring.

2. Chris-
Is it too early to call James Hardy a bust and do you think the front office will add another receiver this off-season in case he is not able to contribute immediately next season?

CB: I think that is a possibility, but more so because James Hardy has a torn ACL to rehab from. He’s not a bust. Eric Moulds didn’t have a breakout season until his third year. The ACL is the issue. It’s usually 7-9 months before a player can come back. He tore it on Dec. 14, so he may not be full go for training camp. Missing all those spring practices and OTAs will hurt his development so I think they do need to add another receiver even if it’s just for a one or two-year deal.

3. Dear Chris,
Who do you think the Bills might pick up in this year’s free agency market?  There are some very high profile defensive ends (Suggs, Peppers), and some solid centers (Birk, Brown, Saturday, Meester) up for grabs.   The Bills have attempted to solve their biggest problems in the free agency market over the past two seasons.    Do you think they will try to make a splash at either of these positions?
Jack

CB: I think Birk and Brown are realistic. Saturday and Meester are more at the end of the line. As for DE Suggs and Peppers they will cost too much and Peppers has already been negotiating with Carolina to re-sign.

I believe the Bills get their pass rusher at the top of the draft this spring.

4. Hey Chris,
Were any Bills named pro bowl alternates?
-Sean

CB: Yes, I blogged this a while back. Marshawn Lynch and Marcus Stroud were Pro Bowl alternates. We’ll see if someone pulls out of the game with an injury.

5. Chris,
What is the contract status with regards to free agents, both restricted and un- restricted.
Thank you for your help,

Mike Czerwonka

CB: Unrestricted – Kirk Chambers, Angelo Crowell, Melvin Fowler, Jabari Greer, Teddy Lehman, J.P. Losman, Corey McIntyre, Duke Preston, Jason Whittle.

Restricted – John DiGiorgio, Keith Ellison, Dustin Fox, Gibran Hamdan, Justin Jenkins, George Wilson.

Bills-Patriots inactives

Buffalo Bills
11-Roscoe Parrish
23-Marshawn Lynch
33-Jabari Greer
58-Teddy Lehman
71-Jason Peters
77-Demetrius Bell
79-Jonathan Scott
7-J.P. Losman – 3rd QB

New England Patriots
29-Lewis Sanders
41-Ray Ventrone
42-BenJarvus Green-Ellis
54-Tedy Bruschi
65-Wesley Britt
74-Billy Yates
93-Richard Seymour
Lineup changes for the Bills
22-Fred Jackson will start at RB in place of 23-Marshawn Lynch
73-Kirk Chambers will start at LT in place of 71-Jason Peters
28-Leodis McKelvin will start at CB in place of 33-Jabari Greer

Lynch not practicing

Marshawn Lynch (shoulder) after participating in practice Thursday is not taking part in Friday’s workout.

Not in attendance again on Friday are Roscoe Parrish (knee) and Jason Peters (knee).

Also not practicing is J.P.  Losman.

Kawika Mitchell is practicing for a second straight day.

Teddy Lehman (groin) is back practicing. And Jabari Greer (knee) looks limited again.

We’ll have a full update after Dick Jauron provides details following practice.

Hamdan the #2 again

Head coach Dick Jauron confirmed that Gibran Hamdan will serve as the backup quarterback again this week with J.P. Losman serving as the emergency 3rd QB.

When asked why Jauron said for all the same reasons he stated last week, which mainly dealt with increasing the possibility of seeing Gibran on the field should something happen to Edwards in the game.

Hamdan the backup this week

It looks like Trent Edwards is set to return to the starting lineup after missing two and a half games with a groin injury. But backing him up will be third string quarterback Gibran Hamdan.

“I’ve been told I’m number two this week,” said Hamdan. “So I’ll be backing Trent up.”

“It makes me feel good. It’s been my goal to work hard ever since I’ve stepped in the building and earn the respect and trust of my teammates. So this I like to think is them recognizing me for the hard work I’ve put in and the ability that I’ve shown to get the job done if called upon. So that’s worth it.”

With the playoffs off the table the Bills’ staff has the license to make a move like this without it reflecting poorly on J.P. Losman.

What’s most interesting is that usually the backup quarterback gets the fewest reps during the week because the starter gets all the first team reps and the third stringer runs the scout team. But despite being named the backup this week, Hamdan told me he still ran the scout team Wednesday because he likes doing it.

Fan Friday 12-12

Fan Friday 12-12

For any questions you might have on the Bills feel free to email me at AskChris@bills.nfl.net. I try to answer every email I get either personally or here in my blog. Let’s get to it.

1. Hey Chris,
 
Saw that Dick Jauron will have Jabari Greer be the starter when he comes back from injury, instead of letting McKelvin continue to play. Is there a reason why Jauron continues to have other corners who aren’t a hundred percent play instead of starting McKelvin?  Case in point, having Terrence McGee play at Miami where he was burned by Ted Ginn Jr. for 175 yards.  Thanks.
 
Matt Bills fan from Michigan

CB: First of all, Jauron said when Jabari is healthy he will start. I don’t think he’ll have Jabari start unless he is 100 percent. This week for example, Jabari is not 100 percent healthy and he’s been ruled out for the game. I wouldn’t anticipate him starting over McKelvin until he’s full go.

McKelvin has shown he can handle a starting role, but that being said Jabari has had a solid season.

2. Hey Chris,

Just wondering what the chances are of Gibran getting the start for the Bills this Sunday? With the way the offensive has been running as of late (0 touchdowns in the last 2 games) what have we got to loose? Does he not at least deserve a shot?
Thanks,
Brian

CB: I don’t think it will happen this week. I actually asked this question of Dick Jauron when I spoke to him for Bills Digest on Thursday. If the Bills lose on Sunday and Trent is still not healthy to play he indicated that there could be a scenario in which Gibran sees time on the field. But I think the Bills have to lose big and J.P. has to play as bad as he did last week for this to possibly happen. Losman has a 111.1 passer rating in his career against the Jets. But with as bad as this offense needs a spark, I’m all for it.

3. I was wondering, why do the Bills have such a tough time against the 3-4 defenses.  It seems more like bad play calling to me personally against the Dolphins(example: the fade route to Evans in the end zone) but still we could not get our ground game going.  I think this is a serious issue for our offense because all teams in our division use it and we need to play them multiple times.  I love what Turk Schonert did with the offense, but do you see him staying in as offensive coordinator seeing as he has trouble against this kind of defense?
 
Thank you,
Kevin

CB: I think it starts in the middle at nose tackle. All three division opponents have superior nose tackles. Kris Jenkins may be the NFL defensive MVP this year. Vince Wilfork is a man child and Jason Ferguson has played well for an aging vet. All three teams have been in the top half of the league in run defense.

Buffalo needs to acquire a center that can better handle these monstrous nose tackles, because they’re so disruptive to the run game and in pushing the pocket in the pass game. Your six most important games of the year are against these teams, so this issue has to be addressed. The problem is the free agent center class isn’t overly appealing.

Matt Birk is 32-years old and Jeff Saturday is 33. Both have also played their entire careers in Minnesota and Indy so prying them away will require overpaying. Baltimore’s Jason Brown is not a world beater and other than those two vets there aren’t many other center candidates that jump out at me.

Still I think it’s worth plugging that hole with a good veteran and hoping you can acquire a promising young center/guard type in the draft this spring. It’s a position that’s more important to Buffalo than perhaps any other team in the league because of the 3-4 prominence in their division.

Second is the 3-4 scheme is one that can better disguise blitzes causing more confusing situations up front. Making it even tougher is all three teams in the division have big OLBs (Matt Roth, Adalius Thomas, Calvin Pace) that are mismatches for backs in blitz situations and can even overpower tight ends.

Ironically, these teams didn’t have to blitz much as committing 7 and 8 to coverage was just as effective against Trent Edwards. I’d like to see the Bills spread these teams out with a total spread package most of the time. They’ve got to change something. Buffalo is 5-1 against the 4-3 and 1-6 this season against the 3-4 heading into the Jets game. Something has to be done to fix that.

4. Chris,
                Can you possibly tell me why the Bills get away from their running game when they are inside the 5 or 10 yard line?  We have an exceptional back in Lynch, who rarely gets less than 1 yard.  We, instead , choose to throw the ball.  I have watched this over and over again & simply cannot figure it out.  It was particularly frustrating to watch the interception in the end zone with the attempted pass to Evans from Losman.  Once again, a pass instead of a couple of runs?  And also, a timing pass play with our now backup QB?
                With all due respect to the coaches, can’t they see this?  We have a talented bunch of guys on this team, but the play calling does not allow them to do what they were recruited to do.
Thanks,
Tom

CB: I agree Lynch runs as hard as anyone in the league and hasn’t seen much action inside the 10-yard line. Buffalo had nine plays inside the 10-yard line against San Francisco and Lynch got the ball once. In the fourth quarter of the that game he had one carry. It is mind boggling.

I think with your backup QB in the game you should lean on your feature back all the more. I’d like to believe the coaches do recognize this. Whether it changes remains to be seen.

5. Chris,
 
Where has Melvin Fowler been? I have not heard any discussions about him being hurt. Duke has really hurt us the last couple of weeks in key situations. When is Melvin going to be back or was he benched in favor of Duke, which I would not understand !!!

CB: He has been benched in favor of Duke Preston. I thought Duke had a few good games in the middle of the season, but he’s had his share of problems. I don’t think he’ll be coming out any time soon. He’s bigger than Fowler by about 25-30 pounds and against the 3-4 fronts of the Jets and Pats coming up I anticipate he’ll stay in there. Fowler is quicker and more mobile, but had his problems holding his ground against the likes of Jenkins and Wilfork.

Bills-Dolphins inactives

Buffalo Bills
17-Justin Jenkins
25-Xavier Omon
33-Jabari Greer
65-Jason Whittle
77-Demetrius Bell
87-Jonathan Stupar
94-Aaron Schobel
5-Trent Edwards – 3rd QB

Miami Dolphins
14-Chris Hannon
41-Joey Thomas
61-Shawn Murphy
71-Lionel Dotson
75-Nate Garner
81-Joey Haynos
90-Rodrique Wright
9-John Beck – 3rd QB

Lineup changes for the Bills
No. 7 J.P. Losman will start at quarterback
No. 92 Ryan Denney will start at defensive end
No. 28 Leodis McKelvin will start at cornerback

Injury update

Trent Edwards remains day-to-day with the groin injury. Dick Jauron did not say how much a quarterback would need to practice during the week to still be considered a viable option for a game, but that he would need to practice “some.”

J.P. Losman took all the first team reps. For more info check out Bills Roundup by clicking on the Media Lounge tab at the home page of Buffalobills.com later this afternoon.

Not practicing were Jabari Greer (knee), Robert Royal (hamstring), Chris Ellis (ankle) and Chris Kelsay was excused for personal reasons. He’s expected to be back at practice Thursday. Copeland Bryan (foot) and Teddy Lehman (hamstring) were limited.

Practice went pretty well for Aaron Schobel and Donte Whitner as both got reps with the first unit on defense. Both Schobel and Whitner practiced fully. Whitner was used as both the nickel corner and at free safety in the base package.

Schobel told me he plans to practice again on Thursday, but wouldn’t call himself a sure thing for Sunday. But Schobel did say he won’t need surgery on his ailing foot, which is very good news. Whitner indicated he should be ready for Sunday’s game.

Schobel, Whitner practicing

Aaron Schobel was back on the practice field and lined up with the first team defense when team work began. He wasn’t going full speed, but wasn’t favoring the foot a lot.

Donte Whitner was also practicing with the first team defense in regular and the nickel package.

Not practicing was Jabari Greer, though he was doing rehab work on the field with the trainers. Robert Royal was doing the same type of work with the training staff.

Not in attendance was Chris Kelsay and Chris Ellis.

Trent Edwards was not practicing with J.P. Losman taking first team reps.

Fan Friday 11-28

Fan Friday 11-28

Here’s the latest edition. If you have a question you’d like answered just e-mail me at AskChris@bills.nfl.net.

1. Why haven’t we been utilizing James Hardy in the red zone, more specifically inside the five? 
GO BILLS,

Anil

CB: That’s a good question. While it’s been no secret that Hardy is still working on grasping the playbook, having him run a fade pattern in the end zone doesn’t appear to be something that requires a lot of playbook retention. I saw Hardy on the field in the red zone on one occasion last week at KC, but he did not run a route into the end zone.

I understand that he might be coming along slowly in terms of the entire offense, but there’s no denying he’s a physical mismatch in the red zone and would create coverage dilemmas for an opposing secondary.

2. What do you think the chances of Teddy Lehman eventually stepping in for Ellison to provide more strength are?
 
Adam

CB: I think they’re remote unless Ellison is injured and Lehman is healthy. Right now Ellison is nursing a lingering ankle injury and will be a game time decision for Sunday. Unfortunately for Lehman he’s not healthy to fill the void if called upon because he has a hamstring injury of his own. Right now Bryan Scott would be the next guy to step in at linebacker.

Ellison is a heady player with a bit more athleticism than Lehman and it appears that is what the coaching staff covets at that position especially with stouter linebackers alongside Ellison already in Poz and Mitchell.

3. Dear Chris,
 
The offensive line appears to have regressed significantly this season.  It seems to me the biggest change has been Coach Jim McNally’s retirement; your thoughts?
 
Thanks,
Dick Sheehy

CB: There’s no question the offensive line has had its share of problems this season. However, I don’t think coach McNally’s retirement is the only change. Peters was a holdout curbing his development into an elite tackle, Butler was out for three games and they got so thin inside at one point that Kirk Chambers had to play guard. Now I’m not completely excusing the offensive line of criticism because of injuries, but they do play a factor.

With all due respect to coach McNally, the run game and effectiveness in short yardage were issues for this line last year. Marshawn Lynch only has four 100-yard rushing games in his career counting his day against the Browns. So it’s not like they were ripping yards off in huge chunks last year either. And on 3rd-and-1 last season Buffalo was one of the last teams in terms of conversion percentage in the league.

I actually think they have some of the same problems from last year to be honest.

4. Chris,
 
I was wondering if you had a complete and up-to-date list of Buffalo’s free agents for 2009. I did some research and here’s what I’ve got so far:

CB: Here you go
Unrestricted free agents – Angelo Crowell, Kirk Chambers, Melvin Fowler, Jabari Greer, J.P. Losman, Teddy Lehman, Corey McIntyre, Duke Preston, Jason Whittle.

Restricted free agents – John DiGiorgio, Keith Ellison, Dustin Fox, Gibran Hamdan, Justin Jenkins, George Wilson

5. Hey Chris, i was wondering, from everything that i’ve read so far, tolbert is saying that steve has a better grasp of the bill’s offense and that he’s better at adjusting to the defense he’s seeing, if that’s the case, why has it taken so long to get him involved in the offense? i’m not saying replacing reed (when healthy), but being in there in place of hardy earlier in the season.

Ryan

CB: I think it’s due primarily to the fact that the grasp of the offense only started to happen for Johnson these past couple of weeks. Only in the past couple of weeks did the light bulb really go on for Johnson is how I understood Tyke.