Should the Bills re-sign: Drayton Florence?

   Historically, the Bills have been a revolving door at cornerback.
   Talents like Nate Odomes, Jeff Burris, Thomas Smith, Antoine Winfield and Nate Clements have come and gone over the years - only to be replaced by younger defensive backs with lower price tags and less starting experience.  Only time will tell if Drayton Florence can be added to that list.
   After a disastrous season in Jacksonville, few expected Florence to be a big contributor for the Bills when he signed as a free agent in 2009.  He still isn't a Pro-Bowl caliber player, but Florence has managed to start 29 of Buffalo's last 32 games at cornerback - and done a decent job at it.  Some would argue that he's been the Bills best defensive back since joining the team.
   Exceeding expectations has a price tag, though.  And the Bills will probably have to shell out a decent contract to retain his future services.

Size:            6'0, 195 lbs.
Position:     Cornerback
Selected:     2003 draft by San Diego, second round (46th overall)
                    Free agent pickup by Buffalo in 2009
Age:            30 years old (turns 31 in December)



   In 2010, Florence was the team's biggest playmaker on defense, grabbing three interceptions (a team high), defensing 15 passes, forcing a fumble and scoring a touchdown.  His play helped the Bills finish third in the NFL against the pass - although that could also be attributed to opposing teams not needing to throw much.
   For a cornerback, Florence has good size and is very physical when jamming receivers at the line.  However, his aggressive play sometimes results in defensive holding and pass interference penalties.  His age (30) could play a factor in what the Bills are willing to offer him, but Florence has managed to stay clear of injuries during his career so far.
   Although Buffalo has several other talented corners on the roster, there also lots of questions - which could ultimately force their hand with Florence.  
   Coaches would love to see former first round pick Leodis McKelvin finally reach his potential and snatch a starting job.  But there is no guarantee that will ever happen.  On the other side of the field, Terrence McGee hasn't been healthy in almost two full years, and he may never return to his previous form.  The Bills also drafted Aaron Williams in the early second round based on the belief that he has starting potential.  But it could be another year or two before he's ready.  Reggie Corner is more suited to playing against slot receivers.  Ashton Yobouty is also a free agent, and has only been a fringe player at best.
   If the Bills want to make a big splash, several cornerbacks are available who would be significant upgrades at the position.
   Many believe Nnamdi Asomugha is the best cornerback in the league, and he is unlikely to be re-signed by Oakland.  If Cincinnati lets him walk, Johnathan Joseph is also a Pro-Bowl level player.  Others decent options on the market include Ike Taylor, Antonio Cromartie, Chris Carr, Richard Marshall and Carlos Rogers.
   Florence originally signed a two-year contract with the Bills for $6.6 million.  It's highly unlikely they will get that kind of bargain again.  When free agency resumes, he could command a contract of closer to $5 million per year.