http://gty.im/121722926
As I look over the Bills front 4, I’m reminded that there are a few holes they need to fill. In particular, they need a starter at 5 Technique End and some depth behind the Pro Bowl Trio. Unlike the offensive line, tight end or defensive back, most of the key players that they’ll look at will be quite inexpensive, as they’re going to be 1 dimensional (with a focus on run down) or depth to spell Mario/Kyle/Marcell for a few snaps to catch their breath. Take a look:
5 Technique (Run Stuffer) End: Vacant
NT: Dareus
3 Technique: K. Williams
7 Technique/RDE: M. Williams
Throughout games, the players may rotate around the front (Dareus and Mario in particular) but in order to do that, the Bills will need some professional depth behind them. If the Bills were to eschew some of the players listed here, I can see this draft being solely focused on an offensive piece they missed in FA (Tight End for example) and defensive depth. As a result, pay attention to the low end of the salary spectrum here – the Bills will be looking for quality, but a 1-dimensional run stuffer shouldn’t break the bank.
Interior DL
Position: DT /5 – Technique End
System Need: Moderate
Typical Cost: 3.6 – 16.6 million per year.
Potential Targets:
Dan Williams, Arizona: Dan has grown into his run stopper role with the Cardinals. Typically I’d be worried about his old coordinator-turned-head coach going for him in New York – but with “Snacks” Harrison already there I doubt they’ll move on from him. If they did, I’m sure Rex would have him in Buffalo inside of five minutes. Back to Williams: If he gets the nearly 6 million a year some allege he can pull in the open market, best to look somewhere else.
Kenrick Ellis, New York Jets: Rex Connection Number 1. The 346-pounder would be an asset in the run stopping game at Nose and 5-Technique, allowing Dareus to roam a bit ala Ngata throughout the line. The former 3rd rounder lost his job as starter to the aforementioned “Snacks” Harrison, so he may go for a 1-2 year prove it deal that would be a fair deal for both sides. Rex knows him, so if he is available and they don’t pursue, I’d put that up as a big red flag for him.
Vince Wilfork, New England: With the Patriots declining his option for a second year, I am of two minds. One, if Wilfork were to sign up with Buffalo his skills are still elite in the run-stop game. However, Wilfork’s probably the poster boy (behind Brady) of the “Patriot Way”. That kinda makes me a little sick. But, if Spikes can be welcomed with open arms, so too can Vince.
Alex Carrington, St. Louis: MEGAHAND!!! Grabbing Alex on the cheap would allow the Bills to have a player return that did well in his role as 5 Technique in the run and pass game. And of course in the special teams game, you have a guy who might occasionally block a kick or two. Again, depends on draft plans and how things shake up after the first few weeks of free agency.
Leger Douzable, New York Jets: Consider Leger the DT/DE equivalent of a Jim Leonhard: he’ll show up as a depth guy that knows the defense as well as the starters and can show up as a solid wave player. He should come relatively cheap, so signing him as a backup would allow another “Rex Guy” in the room without breaking the bank. Remember the goal here is just to give Mario, Kyle or Marcell time to get a little oxygen, some Gatorade and maybe a cookie.
So we’ll finish up with defensive backs – which should be a fun discussion. Or you’ll be tweeting me @RDotDeuce how much my plan stinks. Either way, I’m going to bed. Thanks for reading!
#1FO
Free Agent
Free agent preview archives:
Add The Sports Daily to your Google News Feed!
