Archives for July 26, 2015

'“It’s more about building chemistry than actual X’s and O’s and execution and stuff like that,” says Bart Scott, who played linebacker for Ryan on the Jets and when Ryan was defensive coordinator of the Baltimore Ravens. “It’s really more about building a cohesive unit.”'

'Ryan says he understands fans’ frustration about the never-ending search for Jim Kelly’s successor as the organization’s franchise quarterback, but feels that a three-man competition is a reason to be excited.'

'He’s electric. He’s elite. In six seasons, McCoy has already rushed for 6,792 yards and 44 touchdowns with another 2,282 yards and 10 touchdowns receiving. As other teams invest in $100 Million Dollar Quarterbacks, the Bills paid up for a 27-year-old running back.'

'As for Dareus, he has a strong case to make. His sack total has increased from 5.5 (twice) to 7.5. to 10 last season. Demanding double-teams at a nimble 331 pounds, he has helped free up both Williams and Jerry Hughes. Further, he might be the No. 1 reason the Bills’ run defense has finished 11th and fifth the last two years. Wider than Suh, with a motor that doesn't flicker as much, he'll control a gap with more regularity.'

'Here are the five biggest stories I’ll be watching in training camp – any one of which could be the dominant theme in an ordinary summer…'.

'Maybin knows many people consider him a football failure and one of the worst draft picks in Buffalo Bills history. Fans grew to loathe him for his colorful personality and wee production. Many fans would say: “I would have given my right arm to have his opportunity.” But fans might lop off their left arm to have Maybin’s life now.'

'Darryl is assigned the “Stans” of the world because he has the ability to defuse their critique of his play and the play of his teammates and the patience to listen to it. It’s agonizing to hear for the millionth time what he or one of the guys could’ve or should’ve done to win those games. Discussing what many fans consider a failure, the loss of four Super Bowls, and his ability to point out their successes on the football field reinforces Darryl’s pride in himself and his teammates. And with that, both Darryl and Stan get something from the experience.'

'"It could definitely be harder," said Hogan, who reportedly has a base salary of $585,000 for 2015. "There’s a lot of guys we’re going to want to put the ball into their hands. It is what it is. At the end of the day, if we’re winning, that’s all I care about. If we’re playing at the end of January, or early February, that makes all the difference."'

'Kromer's likely departure from the team will leave a void, but, assistant offensive line coach Kurt Anderson is thought of to be a candidate to replace him. A former offensive coordinator with the Chicago Bears, Kromer was hired by the Bills in January.'

'His 2015 impact may be limited, mainly due to the expected level of quarterback play in the upcoming season. Since the trio of quarterbacks have yet to show a consistent presence in throwing longer passes, it could benefit Harvin from a volume perspective. He'll likely be lined up both on the outside and in the slot, and will be given the opportunity — and even depended on at times — to get yards after the catch. His season statistics will not likely be indicative of his talent.'

'The upcoming season will certainly be an interesting one for Bradham. He faced the most adversity of his career when playing in the Mike Pettine defensive scheme that was mostly a 3-4 scheme for the linebackers. Rex Ryan's scheme will be multiple, but Bradham will need to acclimate to the odd-front defense with a lot more ease than he did two years ago. However, Bradham also has the opportunity to be a weapon in Rex Ryan's defense. One of the most overlooked strengths to his game is the ability to blitz and put pressure on the quarterback. With Ryan's pressure-based system, it would be fair to expect Bradham to be a thorn in the side of quarterbacks on a weekly basis.'

'In this offense, with these quarterbacks, Clay has a chance to really be a focal point for the Bills. That's not to belittle some of the other receivers the team has on the roster, but the tight end is generally considered to be a 'security blanket' for a quarterback. That normal factor will likely be multiplied by offensive coordinator Greg Roman's tight end friendly offensive system. Clay has the athleticism to make a solid impact this year, but isn't likely to become one of the upper-echelon tight ends as his contract would indicate.'