Ray Rice's last, best shot might be with the Buffalo Bills. There was definitely internal discussion about bringing in the running back following the team losing yet another running back -- this time featured star LeSean McCoy -- to injury, and coach Rex Ryan is supportive of Rice and would welcome him in, sources said. Ryan holds considerable sway, and while owner Terry Pegula would have to sign off on it, it's not out of the question.
Had McCoy's hamstring injury been more significant, I would not have been surprised at all if Rice worked out for the Bills last week. The fact remains that McCoy could still miss more time than projected, and if the Bills suffer another setback to a runner -- they had about five of them out for last week's game against Cleveland -- I wouldn't rule this one out.
This team wants to make a playoff push and Ryan saw Rice at his best both professionally and personally. As I reported back at the March owner's meeting, Ryan is one of Rice's many former coaches who support him and believe he deserves another shot.
It's also worth noting that Pegula used to be business partners with agent Todd France, who represents Rice, having purchased his agency before becoming an NFL owner (and then having to divest himself of that interest). He thinks very highly of France, and they obviously have a unique relationship. The men have been in close contact already, as the Bills try to get another of France's clients, stud defensive tackle Marcell Dareus, signed to a long-term deal.
Keep an eye on this one. Buffalo is as thin as any team in the league at running back and has to get through another three weeks without McCoy just to get to the regular season. It's a smaller media market away from some of the glare, and it could be the best opportunity for Rice to catch on.
