REPORT DATES: July 9th (rookies), July 25th (veterans)
SITE: St. John Fisher College, Pittsford, NY
CAMP OBJECTIVES: The installation of a new 4-3 defense run by former Bears and Dolphins head coach Dave Wannstedt will take precedent when the Bills convene in Pittsford, with the defensive end and cornerback positions getting a particular emphasis. Buffalo spent big on pass rushers in the offseason, landing prized two-time Pro Bowler Mario Williams and double-digit sack artist Mark Anderson in free agency, and both will be counted on to play prominent roles in the revised scheme. Rookie Stephon Gilmore, Buffalo's first-round choice in April's draft, will be given every opportunity to supplant disappointing former No. 1 pick Leodis McKelvin at one corner spot, with talented second-year pro Aaron Williams getting a crack at a starting nod on the other side. There's plenty of competition at wide receiver as well, with returnees Donald Jones, Derek Hagan and Marcus Easley and rookie speedster T.J. Graham (3rd Round, North Carolina State) all seeking to seize the No. 2 post opposite top target Stevie Johnson, and a battle between onetime Titans starter Vince Young and holdover Tyler Thigpen for the backup quarterback job should be one of the more intriguing preseason competitions. Maintaining good health will also be a desired goal in camp, with key players such as Mario Williams, running back Fred Jackson, defensive tackle Kyle Williams and center Eric Wood all coming back from season-ending injuries.
PRESEASON SCHEDULE (All Times Eastern):
Aug. 9 - vs. Washington, 7 p.m. Aug. 17 - at Minnesota, 8 p.m. Aug. 25 - vs. Pittsburgh, 7 p.m. Aug. 30 - at Detroit, 7 p.m.
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