Archives for May 2014

‘The target would be a big impact player, either defensive end Jadeveon Clowney, offensive tackle Greg Robinson or receiver Sammy Watkins. South Carolina’s Clowney is the top defensive lineman in the draft. Auburn’s Robinson is the most talented, physical tackle. Clemson’s Watkins is the best, game-breaking receiver.’

‘”We will do what we have to do to keep the Bills in Western New York,” Cuomo said late today. “I spoke with Commissioner Goodell and County Executive Poloncarz yesterday, and we’re all on the same page: If a new stadium is what’s needed and is possible, it will get done.”‘

‘”It has also been incredibly disappointing to see the complete lack of accountability on the part of the Buffalo Bills organization as it relates to this complaint,” she added.’

‘Unlike past drafts where the Bills were desperate to fill several gaping holes, Whaley thinks this haul will be all about getting a few key players who can perhaps step right in and further solidify the roster, and then add quality depth throughout.’

‘What this means for the Bills at No. 9 is that there could be several interesting scenarios presented to them. Depending on how things play out, here’s a list of five players who could realistically wind up wearing a Buffalo uniform in 2014.Every draft brings a certain level of intrigue, but this one goes above and beyond, mainly due to the polarizing presence of Texas A&M quarterback Johnny Manziel.’

‘Should the Bills stay put at No. 9 – and it’s speculated they could trade up to take Clemson wide receiver Sammy Watkins or UB linebacking star Khalil Mack – it’s likely Texas A&M’s Jake Matthews, the top-rated tackle in the draft will be gone. But they might have a shot at Auburn’s Greg Robinson and several mock drafts have Buffalo taking Michigan’s Taylor Lewan. Notre Dame’s Zack Martin, ranked No. 4 at the position, will likely go later in the round.’

‘In short, Buffalo has already made at least cursory efforts to address its perceived needs, other than right tackle.’

‘With the draft finally scheduled to kick off tonight (8 p.m., ESPN), here’s a rundown of what the Bills might do in what could be one of the most interesting first rounds in franchise history…’.

‘She also criticized the Bills in her statement, which reads in part: “It has also been incredibly disappointing to see the complete lack of accountability on the part of the Buffalo Bills organization as it relates to this complaint. The Buffalo Bills own the trademark for the Jills; they control the field and everything that happens on that field, from the uniforms the cheerleaders wear to the dances they perform. Yet the organization appears content to attempt to wash their hands of any connection to their own cheerleading squad.”‘

‘I believe the team’s greatest needs are a starting right tackle, playmaking tight end and a big, physical receiver. There are secondary needs, such as a linebacker who can compete for the starting strongside spot, backup running back, defensive end who can play the run opposite Mario Williams, and an upgrade at right guard.’

‘”Yes I do,” Goodell said. “We said at the time when they entered into a new lease (which has nine years remaining) that this is really a short-term solution. We need to find the right long-term solution that’s good for the community, and can help the Bills to continue to be successful in Western New York.”‘

‘”We all want to focus and get that stadium built,” Goodell said. “We need to find the right long-term solution that is good for the community and can help the Bills continue to be successful in western New York. I’m confident we’ll get there.”‘

‘Whaley says the team will contact the NFL regarding the arrest and will offer Dareus support and assistance. Whaley provided no further details in the statement released by the Bills on Wednesday, a day after the player’s arrest became public.’

‘The key question entering the draft for Bills General Manager Doug Whaley is: How can he turn a couple of average positions into positions of strength?’

‘But if they see a guy they really covet and decide to trade up, they’d better be sure. I wouldn’t use next year’s first-round pick to move up from No. 9 overall. They’ve given away future No. 1’s in the past and lived to regret it. This is a scary thought, but they’ll need their No. 1 next year if EJ Manuel doesn’t pan out.’