Bills report: Inside slant
One man's trash is another man's treasure.
That axiom is playing itself out when it comes to two very big offensive linemen in the NFL, one now a Buffalo Bill.
In Jacksonville, coaches and fans are hoping Mike Williams, the No. 4 overall pick of Buffalo's in 2001 who was released this off-season, can meet his expectations and be a missing link.
In Buffalo, coaches and fans are hoping Aaron Gibson, the 27th overall pick of Detroit's in 1999 who was out of football last season, can do the same.
Gibson, whose 6-6, 375-pound girth rivals Williams, knows this is likely his last chance to make something of his football life.
While he started as a rookie for the Lions, Gibson never dominated like scouts thought he would and eventually landed with the Chicago Bears.
He started all 16 games in 2003 when Bills coach Dick Jauron was in charge. The next year, however, injuries and weight problems limited Gibson to four games before he was out on the street in 2005.
"It was hard being out of the game," he admitted. "I have a young daughter, so I was keeping busy, but not playing football was something I wasn't ready for. I'm glad to have an opportunity to come back."
He didn't have many. Buffalo was the only team he considered -- or seriously considered him. For Jauron, Gibson's signing isn't a reputation breaker but it could be a maker if he can win a roster spot and contribute.
"I know what kind of coach he is and how he approaches the game," Gibson, 28, said. "I had some success under him before, so hopefully we can have some more."
Gibson was drafted as a tackle but was moved inside to guard because his footwork and technique in space against speed pass rushers was so poor. The Bills have looked at him at right tackle, but prefer him inside where he can use his massive size to dominate opponents in the run game.
Copyright (C) 2006 The Sports Xchange. All Rights Reserved.
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