Last month, when we needed a little extra content, we rolled out 32 posts breaking down team needs around the NFL.
Now we’re really hurting for content, so let’s check back in with each team and find out what issues they have to address after the lockout ends. We present our team checklists, starting with the Buffalo Bills.
1. Find a starting tackle.
Coach Chan Gailey said before the draft the team needed to add a tackle. They picked up Chris Hairston late in the fourth round, but he’s a developmental prospect and they need someone to play right away. This should be Buffalo’s first priority in free agency.
2. Add a backup quarterback.
Buffalo is ready to ride or die with Ryan Fitzpatrick as their starter. Fair enough. But they need another capable option on the roster to challenge him in training camp and play if things don’t go well.
Gailey has said the team will look for another quarterback. Bringing back Brian Brohm doesn’t appear to be an option. Someone with mobility like Tyler Thigpen, Bruce Gradkowski, or Tarvaris Jackson could make sense. Thigpen played well for Gailey in Kansas City and will be available if we don’t return to 2010 rules.
3. Decide whether they can afford Paul Posluszny.
He’s their most important free agent, assuming we don’t go back to 2010 league rules. The team drafted Kelvin Sheppard in the third round to play on running downs, which could lead to Posluszny’s departure. The team is counting on too many stopgap veterans like Andra Davis and Reggie Torbor.
This is true at most positions on defense. Adding more depth on the defensive line, even after adding Marcell Dareus, would make sense.
4. Pick up a tight end.
This is admittedly a luxury item the Bills probably won’t be able to afford. Still, rolling with David Martin, Shawn Nelson, and Scott Chandler again feels like settling for an offense with potential to be explosive.