Archives for April 18, 2007

‘Linebacker: An ‘obvious need’ said Levy. He mentioned the need for a linebacker who can stuff the run, and not just one who can run. Both Modrak and Levy agree with all the experts: Mississippi’s Patrick Willis is the top linebacker, who brings speed, talent and good character. The team’s current depth chart has Angelo Crowell moving to the middle linebacker spot, with Keith Ellison manning the weakside outside spot. If the team drafts Willis, he would play the middle position, with Crowell moving back outside.’

‘Turner, 25, is a restricted free agent who recently visited with Buffalo. An extremely productive backup to LaDainian Tomlinson, Turner – who has good speed and power – could blossom in a starting role. However, since they tendered him a $2.35 million contract, the Chargers would be entitled to a first- and third-round picks in 2007 as compensation for any team that elects to sign him.’

‘He may have been facetious with the number, but the Bills have a number of directions they can go with their eight picks, including trades to move up or down. “We’re always willing to move, but it takes two,” Modrak said. “Conversations are ongoing all the time, and they’ll heat up more as we go. Things are set, 85 percent, but now is the time you bring everybody together and polish it up.”‘

‘The Bills currently have two experienced running backs on their depth chart, led by journeyman Anthony Thomas, who spent most of last season as McGahee’s backup. Then there’s Shaud Williams, who has seen limited playing time in his three seasons at Buffalo.’

‘Modrak: "We’re always willing to move, but it takes two. Conversations are ongoing all the time. They’re ongoing now and they’ll heat up more as we go because all the teams are in the same situation. We’re all polishing up our draft boards so people are in the same situation where they want to see what they can get and what they can give."’

‘”There’s nothing new to report right now,” said Levy Wednesday. “There are so many complexities to the deal that if it’s done I’ve got to tell you it’d be a surprise.”‘

‘Following a season in which several rookies started and played very well, one guy the Bills could have really used was relegated to spectator status. Out back, two fresh safeties were playing with a maturity and confidence that was at odds with their rookie status, but upfront was a weak corps of defensive tackles with fifth-rounder Kyle Williams just trying to slow the hemorrhaging. The run defense was like a funnel, as opposing rushers headed straight for the middle of the field and poured out the other side; hopefully, for Buffalo’s sake, a healthy McCargo can counteract an obvious point of attack for opposing offensive coordinators.’