How Much Is Stephon Gilmore Really Worth?

The NFL has been pretty quiet the past couple of weeks since mini-camp finished up, but there are still some "elephants in the room" as far as contract situations go. Buffalo has a few of them on their hand, such as Tyrod Taylor and Stephon Gilmore. The focus right now is on Gilmore's contract, as he has threatened to miss time if a new deal does not get done soon. Gilmore is an excellent corner who has displayed some amazing skill over his tenure here in Buffalo, and it's time he gets paid. Overall, what will Buffalo be willing to pay, and more importantly, what is he worth? Let's break it down.

There are three main categories in which I value players. Each category is rated out 1-5 (5 of course being the best). At the end, the overall grade of the player will result in how I value said player.

Pass Defense: 4/5

Stephon Gilmore is excellent in coverage, more so man-to-man. He is a physical cornerback who can frustrate receivers (ex. Odell Beckham Jr.) as well as hold his own with any receiver. This past season, Gilmore posted 3 picks, 36 tackles, and an impressive 18 passes defended in 12 games. He will challenge a receiver, and adjusts well to the ball.  He needs to continue to work on his game though, as Gilmore still struggles with reading shorter routes, such as curls. Overall, his Pass Defense rating is a 4, as he could still perfect his game.

Run Defense: 3.5/5

Gilmore, as stated above, is a very physical cornerback who is not scared to try and lay a big hit. Gilmore does not play a big role in the run defense as Buffalo's front 7 has been dominant over the past few seasons. Still, his ability to lay a big hit along with his speed allows him to make a stop when needed. His run defense is rated a 3 as his tackling is not perfect, and he is often blocked out of plays. Gilmore needs to utilize his strength to break into the route of the runningback to make a tackle. 

Tackling: 3.5/5

Despite Gilmore being able to lay out a huge hit at times, his tackling is not the greatest. He is a solid tackler, and relies on technique and form to make a successful tackle. He needs to improve his tackling in space, but overall, his tackling is acceptable.

Injuries: 3/5

Stephon Gilmore's career has had a lot of injuries, and that may be his biggest downfall as a cornerback. He's missed 11 total games in his 4 year career, having a perfect 16/16 games played only in his rookie year. He's had mainly upper body injuries, such as wrist and shoulder injuries. He's gotta learn to stay on the field to optimize his usage and prove how consistent he can be.

Overall: 14/20

I'm grading Stephon Gilmore at a 14/20, which although it seems low, I give more weight to his excellent pass coverage and physical aspect he brings to the game. Gilmore plays a tough game of football, and deserves a big payday for sure. He has the potential, with a few tweaks to his game and of course, health, to become a top 5 cornerback in the NFL. So, that brings up a question, as perhaps a top 10 corner in the NFL, how much is he worth? 

Ideal Contract: 5 years/$12.5M per year.

This is the type of contract I would offer to Gilmore. In my opinion, he is not worth $14m-$15m, especially with 2nd year product Ronald Darby on the rise. It will be interesting to see what Buffalo does, but this is where I value Gilmore.

Stats: http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/G/GilmSt00.htm\

Image #1:  (USATSI)

Image #2: Kevin Hoffman-USA TODAY Sports

Buffalo Bills Mini-camp Wrap-up

As the Summer finally arrives, the Buffalo Bills have just finished their mandatory mini-camp. A lot went down over the past 3 days, and the Bills believe it's set them up for a great training camp in July. “We’ve won the offseason. I will challenge any team. I think we won the offseason, but we need to win July,” Rex Ryan stated today at practice. The Bills have put in a lot of preparation, and are ready for July to roll around. Let's take a look at some key storylines of the Mini-camp.

Robert Woods Impresses:
The 4th year WR looks to make a big leap this season after being plagued by a groin injury nearly all last season. He's had an excellent mini-camp, looking quick, moving well, and making some highlight reel plays. In addition, his route running has also looked solid. Buffalo has a lot of WR's on the roster, and the competition will really be heating up heading into training camp. Buffalo will truly have a tough decision on who to name the #2 receiver behind Sammy Watkins, but odds are, a healthy Woods could be the guy.

Stephon Gilmore Shows Up:
Gilmore is also entering his 4th year in the NFL, and he's been adamant on his contract situation. Arguably a top 10 CB in the NFL, Gilmore is looking for his big payday, much like Marcell Dareus got last season. Gilmore showed up for the mini-camp after sitting out all of the OTA's. Gilmore is a huge piece to the Buffalo Bills defense, but if they can't come to terms soon, he may be on his way out. Him showing up to mini-camp shows he's willing to cooperate with the team, although he still is standing strong on his desire for a new contract.

Karlos Williams Out Of Shape:
The 2nd year RB showed up to mini-camp far from ideal football shape. Karlos had a long offseason, as he was taking care of his pregnant wife, often partaking in her cravings, it seems. "He's nowhere close to where he needs to be," Rex Ryan said. The Bills backfield is stacked, and if Karlos doesn't get himself into shape soon, his role could be taken over by the likes of Mike Gillislee, rookie Jonathan Williams, or James Wilder Jr. It will be interesting if Williams can return to the shape he was last year, and continue his short, yet promising career.


The Bills are done with any on-field activity until July's training camp. It will be a long wait, but there will be a lot to look forward to. It's only a matter of time until the Bills return for the 2016 season. Thanks for reading, and as always, let's go Buffalo!

Image #1: http://prod.images.bills.clubs.nflcdn.com/image-web/NFL/CDA/data/deployed/prod/BILLS/assets/images/imported/BUF/photos/clubimages/2016/06-June/tempdefensive-huddle-minicamp-day-3--nfl_mezz_1280_1024.jpg?width=960&height=720
Image #2: http://www.buffalobills.com/assets/images/imported/BUF/photos/centerpiece-2016/05-may/karlos-williams-story.jpg

Top Bills News This Week (5/27-6/2)

It's officially June, and as the days go by, we are getting closer to the football season. The Summer is always a slow time, but with OTA's, roster improvements, and injury news, there's always a little something to talk about. Here is this weeks top Bills news.

Roster Moves: 

There haven't been too many moves as expected, besides the rookie signings mid-May, but the Bills added depth to their LB core by signing former Packer and Jet, Jamari Lattimore. The 2011 undrafted FA is 27 years old, and looks to add some needed depth to the Bills while Shaq Laqson recovers from injury. The product, from Middle Tennessee State University, has some size and speed to him, which will fit Rex's tough defensive scheme perfectly. Lattimore will be able to get to the QB, and he'll be fighting for a roster spot throughout the summer. 

OTA News:

Marcell Dareus and Charles Clay are back at practice. Both are key pieces of this offense this upcoming season. Dareus will be trying to help bring the defense back to top 10 form, while Clay will look to keep the rushing game #1 by using his big body to block and open up holes. It's always good to get great players back in the mix, even if it's practice.

Seantrel Henderson will also be making his return to the team after missing extended time last season and most of the offseason so far with Crohn's Disease. He's been recovering for some time now, and will look to take back his spot at RT, as Jordan Mills has been keeping it warm for him.

Injury News:

In addition to Henderson returning, Sammy Watkins is also making progress, about a month and a half after his foot surgery. He said he's hoping to get the boot off [Thursday], and that he is just listening to the coaching staff. Sammy Watkins will also be a key cog this year, as usual, so it's important that he receives the proper medical treatment and follows proper protocol to get back ASAP. 

That about wraps it up for the key Bills news this week. There will definitely be more coming in the future weeks. Thanks for reading, and as always, let's go Buffalo!

Image #1: http://www.buffalobills.com/assets/images/imported/BUF/photos/article-assets/Story-Photos/2016-05/ota-notes-marcell.jpg

Image #2: http://chronicle.northcoastnow.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Jets-Bills-Football_News.jpg

Lawson's Injured, but Criticism Not Needed Yet

The injuries are beginning to hit the Bills, as it seems they do every year. Buffalo Bills 1st round pick, Shaq Lawson, underwent successful surgery this morning on his right shoulder. Now, Lawson must play the game of "Wait and Recover," as it has been suggested that he may be on the self for 4-6 months. For a rookie, losing this much amount of time to learn the system and get familiar with the franchise is crucial to a players young career. With that said, many fans and analysts are now questioning the amount of accountability being held for Doug Whaley and Rex Ryan's actions.

It was initially stated straight out of the draft, from medical crews, Whaley, Ryan, and even Lawson himself that the right shoulder of Lawson was "100% ready to go," which of course, is not the case. Lawson's shoulder issues were known months going into the draft. Adam Schefter, ESPN analyst tweeted during the draft that several teams even went as far as to take Lawson off of their draft board. That didn't stop the bold minds of Ryan and Whaley though, as they believed Lawson was an excellent talent, despite the reports of his injuries. It's speculated that Rex and Whaley were well aware of the injury, but thought the surgery could be put off until next offseason. It could not, and thus, fans seem to be very upset with the coach and GM of the Bills.

"If the Bills knew Lawson had injury issues and may miss up to half the season, why did the Bills take the risk on him?"

"Whaley and Rex don't think about the future, only now."

"Whaley and Rex lied to everyone when they said Lawson was okay."

Those are all loose quotes from Bills fans that I've heard since yesterday. Some fans are even calling for Whaley's job. To any fans questioning Whaley and Ryan about this pick, I say; don't. The Buffalo Bills will be just fine. I understand the concern, especially since this seems like a typical Buffalo scenario in the typical 16 year playoff drought, but it's not time to push the panic button yet, and here's why;

•  Most fans knew that Lawson had this nagging shoulder injury that would require attention eventually. 
• Getting this treatment done now will prevent further injury in the future. Let Lawson rest and rehab now, and he will come back full strength and ready to go.
• Buffalo will get his services eventually. The idea of not having an exciting, disruptive first round talent for, at most, half the season does not sound good to me at all. But, if this team can have a decent record when he returns, Lawson can help further the playoff push. 

Whaley and Rex are not the ones to blame here. Lawson was definitely a first round talent, and despite this injury, he will hopefully be a force when fully healed, like he's expected to be. Lawson was one of the best defensively ranked players in the draft. He is very versatile, and can tackle, sack the QB and even play a bit of coverage.  They took a gamble, yes, but I don't think this pick is a bad one at all. I think he will prove that to all of us in his return. What do you guys think? Thanks for reading, and as always, let's go Buffalo!

Image #1: Bill Wippert/Associated Press 

Image #2: 

Buffalo Bills Complete Draft Review

The Buffalo Bills draft concluded last Saturday, and in the eyes of the front office and many fans, the Bills had an excellent draft. The Bills went heavy on defense, spending their first 3 picks on the front 7, and 4 out of 7 picks on defense in total. Doug Whaley and Rex Ryan both believe they had a couple steals. In addition, they also are planning to start 2 of Buffalo's picks this season. Let's look at who they picked up.

DE/OLB: Shaq Lawson (Round 1, Pick 19)

Buffalo decided to beef up the d-line with their first pick of the draft. Standing at 6'4", weighing 260 lbs, Lawson is a big man who can get to the QB. The Clemson product will be a huge addition to the Bills defense, as he brings versatility as a lineman, who can also play stand-up LB. He will be a day one starter across the line from Jerry Hughes, as stated both by Doug Whaley and Rex Ryan. Lawson posted 167 tackles and 20 sacks in his career with Clemson. The Bills certainly found a gem in the 1st round, who will look to take over the hole left by Mario Williams departure.

LB: Reggie Ragland (Round 2, Pick 41)

In the 2nd round, the Bills went front-7 again, this time taking LB Reggie Ragland, out of Alabama. He's also a large man, measuring 6'2" and weighing 258 lbs. He can do anything you need a LB to do, including coverage, rushing the passer, and stopping the run. In college, he racked up 222 tackles and 10 passes defensed. Whaley also said he will start. The Alabama product will line up in the weak-side linebacker spot next to Preston Brown, the third year LB. Although Reggie Ragland had some questions regarding injuries, Whaley felt it was safe to take Ragland in the 2nd round, and if all goes well, it will pay off. Reggie Ragland is an excellent athlete who will bring a lot of versatility to the table.

DT: Adolphus Washington (Round 3, Pick 80)

Buffalo continued to supply the defensive stash, this time picking DT Adolphus Washington in the 3rd round. He is 6'4", and 290 lbs. In his college career with Ohio State, he had 142 tackles and 13.5 sacks. A versatile tackle who can play the five and three technique, Washington will look to see some starting reps in Rex's "5-2 defensive front," rotating in with Kyle Williams and Marcell Dareus. Whaley and Rex have a lot of confidence in this pick, who can hopefully step in right away and make an impact, and maybe even take over for Kyle Williams when he decides to retire.

QB: Cardale Jones (Round 4, Pick 139)

With Tyrod Taylor's future in Buffalo still a question mark at this point in time, the Bills elected to go QB in the 4th round of this year's draft. Cardale Jones will look to develop as the 3rd QB on the Bills roster, behind EJ Manuel and of course, Taylor. The QB out of Ohio State has all the physical attributes to be a great QB in the NFL, standing at 6'5" and weighing 249 lbs. Add in a powerful arm, and he has all the tools to be a stud. He has some issues though, such as accuracy, footwork, and consistency. Jones can work through all of those issues though, and Whaley has stated that Jones' floor is a "very solid backup." Jones may potentially challenge EJ for the backup job as training camp gets underway, but he may be several years away from being a starter in the NFL.

RB: Jonathan Williams (Round 5, Pick 156)

The Buffalo Bills had a great steal of Karlos Williams in last year's draft, so why not try that again? That may have been the motive behind this 5th round pick, as Buffalo's backfield was battered for most of the year, with all the RB's on the roster missing games. Williams also had 22 total touchdowns and 2,321 yards in his college career. Drafted as mainly a special teams acquisition, the 6'0", 223 lb Arkansas RB will look to challenge for some touches as well, in a crowded Bills backfield.

WR: Kolby Listenbee (Round 6, Pick 192)

This speedy receiver was a safe gamble for the Bills, but if it pays off, he will be an excellent acquisition. Listenbee is 6' tall, 197 lbs, and has stated he believes that he's "probably the fastest player in the NFL." He also stated though that speed isn't everything, and that he needs to improve his route running. Rex and company are excited about the TCU product's speed though, and if he can improve his route running, look out.

CB: Kevon Seymour (Round 6, Pick 218)

The Bills spent their last draft pick on a corner late in the 6th round. Seymour is quick, posting a 4.39 40-yard dash time at the pre-draft workouts. The 6', 170 lb CB will look to make his biggest contributions on special teams as a gunner, along with a potential as a punt/kick returner.


Overall, the Buffalo Bills had a solid 2016 draft. The draft has made this team instantly better on the defensive side of the ball, as Lawson, Ragland, and Washington all will look to contribute from day one. There is a lot to be excited about after this draft, as Rex is looking to greatly improve the defense from its 19th overall rank last season. Buffalo will see more from these rookies as mini-camp begins next week. Thanks for reading, and as always, let's go Buffalo!

Image #1: https://bnwordpress.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2016/05/749-1024x683.jpg
Image #2: http://sports.cbsimg.net/images/collegefootball/Shaq-Lawson-Clemson-NFL-Draft.jpg
Image #3: http://www.anotherpackersblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/USATSI_8804852.jpg
Image #4: http://www.dispatch.com/content/graphics/2015/12/10/adolphus-washington.jpg?__scale=w:660,h:769,t:1,c:ffffff,q:80,r:1
Image #5: https://nbcprofootballtalk.files.wordpress.com/2015/01/jones.jpg
Image #6: http://img.bleacherreport.net/img/images/photos/003/499/815/d75433733a4d60b800f2d5ab76d5342b_crop_north.jpg?w=630&h=420&q=75
Image #7: http://a.fssta.com/content/dam/fsdigital/fscom/ncaa-fb/images/2015/08/18/081815-2-CFB-TCU-Kolby-Listenbee-OB-PI.vresize.1200.675.high.27.jpg
Image #8: http://buildingtheherd.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Kevon-Seymour-Pic-1.jpg

Buffalo Bills Top Draft Needs

The road to opening night in the NFL, in many eyes, begins tomorrow. The draft begins at 8 PM (Est.), and at pick #19, the Buffalo Bills will select their next hopeful superstar. There's a lot of defensive talent in this year's draft pool, and with a defense that ranked 19th last year, expect the Bills to pick up some solid defensive talent. These are the Buffalo Bills top ranked draft needs.


1. LB: The Buffalo Bills top priority may just be a LB. The depth at that position has grown very thin over this offseason, losing Nigel Bradham to Free Agency, along with AJ Tarpley to retirement, along with some cuts, such as Tony Steward. Even with the Bills signing of Lorenzo Alexander and Zach Brown not too long ago, the Buffalo Bills could use an early pick on a LB to solidify the struggling position. If the Bills were to look for a LB in the first couple rounds, potential targets such as Alabama standout Reggie Ragland or Su'a Cravens, out of South California.

2. DL: With the aging of DT Kyle Williams and the departure of Mario Williams, this once menacing Buffalo Bills defensive line seems not so scary at all. The Bills need to make a move here at the draft, and it may happen as soon as round one. They could begin to beef up this line by taking a shot at questionable prospect Robert NKemdiche with their 19th overall pick.

3. QB: Tyrod Taylor is the man in Buffalo...for now. Contract talks have been shaky to say the least, as Whaley is not 100% convinced that Taylor will be this franchise's bona fide starter for years to come. With that said, the Bills may definitely walk out of this full draft with one or even two new additions at quarterback. Paxton Lynch may very well be there at pick 19, but the Bills may wait until later to draft someone, such as a Dak Prescott (Mississippi State) or Kevin Hogan (Stanford).

4. WR: Tyrod needs to prove himself this season, and the Bills need someone to compliment Sammy Watkins. The solution? Draft a wide receiver. The Buffalo Bills may not have a lot of options, as the WR class is not deep this year, but they may still find some value in TCU product Josh Doctson, or Ohio State star Braxton Miller, beginning maybe in the 2nd round.

5. SS/FS: If the Bills could walk out with a solid acquisition for all of these positions, the Buffalo Bills draft would be a 110% success. Late in the draft, the Bills may consider picking up a safety. With Corey Graham aging, Aaron Williams mindset being shaken after a potential career-ending injury, and a simple lack of depth at the position, the Bills may look to someone like Deon Bush (Miami) or Derrick Kindred (TCU).

The Buffalo Bills certainly have some holes to fill, but they've also got a lot of options. The moves Buffalo will make will sure be interesting, and if all goes well, they could walk out with their next gem. Thanks for reading, and as always, let's go Bills!!!


Image #1: http://www.billsdaily.com/images/draft2016.jpg
Image #2: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports

I'm Back!

Welcome back to the Buffalo Blitz Sports Blog. I've taken a bit of an offseason hiatus while the Bills have been on their vacation. The NFL Draft is tomorrow, which means the road to opening day begins when the draft goes underway in Chicago. In addition, the Buffalo Bills schedule was released last week. Look for blogs about those topics and more, right here. This is just a short message to say that I'm back! Let's go Bills!