I spoke to a source connected to the Buffalo Bills and once the NFL lockout ends, which now appears imminent, the Bills have every intention of quickly re-signing cornerback Drayton Florence.
By rule, Bills general manager Buddy Nix is prohibited from discussing business with Florence or his representation. Let’s just say both parties are more than open to a reunion.
“He’s a strong, physical corner that is an asset not just in the passing game but against the run,” the source said. “As you can tell by the guys (the Bills) drafted, being stronger and more physical on the defensive side of the ball is the organization’s top priority. Being that type of defense plays to his strengths.”
I sarcastically informed Florence via Twitter Thursday evening of my offer to wager a bucket of chicken wings that Buddy lands him on day one of free agency. In what should be a major clue to everyone of what’s to come, Florence responded by writing “no bet my agent already told me the plan but we can eat at the big tree and discuss the new direction of bills nation.”
I like my wings medium-hot, big guy.
As we reported earlier this month, other than finding a veteran quarterback the Bills will use free agency primarily as a vehicle to re-sign and extend their own talent as opposed to a spending spree on players from other teams. The team will also work hard to bring Paul Posluszny back. Fellow free agent to-be Donte Whitner will move on to another team.
Florence, who signed with Buffalo in 2009, thought his days in Buffalo were over after the Bills used a second-round pick in April to select cornerback Aaron Williams. Turns out, he may have reacted in haste at the time. I’m told in no uncertain terms the tabbing of Williams had nothing to do with Nix’s lack of desire to re-sign Florence, who has four interceptions and a pair of defensive touchdowns during his two-year Buffalo tenure. In fact, Nix said himself he was still interested in Florence following the draft.
Of course, both sides would have to come to an agreement for a deal to happen, and Florence would be foolish to not listen to other offers. But barring something unexpected, Florence will be back in the fold for Buffalo in 2011 and beyond.
(Credit to Chris Zhang for the cool mock Madden image. You can see plenty more by following him on Twitter.)
Would love this signing. Although I think Poz should be equally (if not more) important to retain due to his status on the team, Florence is essential if the Bills don’t want to throw Williams into the fire as a rookie (assuming McGee doesn’t miraculously make it through an entire season). McKelvin is also still up in the air so this would prove that the Bills still aren’t sold on him (as they shouldn’t be so far).
I hope Poz signs with another team! He is slow, weak and average at best. Definitely not worth more than $2M per year! Let some other fool like the Giants (with Perry Fewell) or the Browns (with Dick Mauron) sign him……..