Many observers thought Buffalo would field the worst unit in the league. Instead, an inexperienced and minimally-talented group was somewhere between adequate and average.
With Eric Wood (expected to move to center) and Andy Levitre manning one guard spot, Buffalo at least has some potential on the interior. But if the Bills front office is serious about making the team a contender anytime soon, there have to be some serious upgrades at offensive tackle.
Current Roster:
Demetrius Bell, Erik Pears, Mansfield Wrotto, Cordero Howard, Ed Wang, Chris Hairston
It's scary to think Buddy Nix and Chan Gailey would be satisfied to enter the season with this weak group, but they've done it before.
There might have to be a bidding war with other teams and some decent contracts drawn up, but the Bills will likely have a handful of very good free agent blockers available on both sides of the line. Only time will tell if they try to actually land one of them.
Left Tackles:Doug Free, Dallas
The Cowboys gambled last season by cutting Flozell Adams and promoting the unproven Free to start on the blindside. He did not disappoint, proving to be great at run blocking and very good at pass blocking. Dallas is expected to make a strong effort to re-sign the 27 year old. If they can't, he'll probably be the most pursued lineman available.
Jared Gaither, Baltimore
If not for injury concerns (back) that have de-railed his young career, Gaither would likely be at the top of this list. The Bills were once rumored to be interested in trading for him, but backed off the pricetag of a second-round pick. When healthy, the 25-year-old tackle can be very good and certainly has Pro-Bowl potential.
Jermon Bushrod, New Orleans
Although he's been labeled as inconsistent - especialy in the run game, Bushrod would certainly be an upgrade for the Bills on the left side. And at 26 years old, with only two years of starting under his belt, there might still be some room for improvement. The Saints are expected to try bringing him back, but they've already invested a lot of money in their offensive line.
Jammal Brown, Washington
Certainly not a long term solution, the 30-year-old would bring some much-needed veteran experience to the Bills and could play on either side of the line. Despite being a two-time Pro Bowler, Brown has dealt with a lot of injuries. He struggled early last season, but started regaining form as the year wore on.
Matt Light, New England
Once one of the NFL's best, Light, 33, is clearly past his prime. He's still a good run blocker, but has started struggling handling pass rushers. Like with Brown, Buffalo could benefit from his presence and knowledge - while hoping the 3 time Pro Bowler still has something left in the tank.
Right Tackles
Willie Colon, Pittsburgh
Considered one of the best right tackles in the league, Colon missed all of 2010 with a torn Achilles. Since they were able to make the Super Bowl without him, Pittsburgh might decide he isn't worth a big contract. If they don't re-sign him, another team will get a versatile blocker with serious Pro-Bowl talent...assuming he also returns to healthy form.Marshall Yanda, Baltimore
Yanda is expected to be one of the Ravens top priorities when operations resume. If he hits the open market, the 26 year old is probably more suited to play guard. But he did a very good job filling in when Baltimore was forced to reshuffle the lineup because of injuries. The Bills could certainly find a place for his skills.
Tyson Clabo, Atlanta
After being named to his first Pro-Bowl appearance last season, Clabo will probably command top dollar on the open market. He's known as a physical player and solid in both the pass-run game. But at 30 years old, one has to wonder if 2010 was an abberation. It's likely his value will be a little inflated.
Damien Woody, New York Jets
A few years ago, you would be hard-pressed to find a better lineman than Woody. But now 33 years old and coming off back-to-back major injuries (knee, Achilles), he might not have anything left. Still, as stated earlier, the Bills lack a veteran presence and could benefit from him in the locker room for a year or two.
Others:
When a team is lacking in talent and experience like the Bills, lots of players could provide starting help.
Denver's Ryan Harris is a young and solid right tackle with potential to get better. Seattle's Sean Locklear is a strong pass blocker that could play on either side.
No comments:
Post a Comment