2012 NFL Free Agency: 3 Key Players the Buffalo Bills Should Release

With the 2012 NFL free-agency frenzy set to commence Tuesday, March 13th, the Buffalo Bills could clear up a bit of cap room in order to bring in the top-dollar free agents fans are desperate for. 

The flip-flop between the 3-4 and the 4-3 defensive front obviously means that a few former acquisitions will be on the chopping block.

DE/ OLB Chris Kelsay

Drafted by the Bills in 2003, Kelsay hasn't really been productive, as he never recorded more than 5.5 sacks in a season, despite most of those years coming in his natural three-point stance at defensive end. 

In 2010, he signed a five-year, $28.2 million contract, with the reasons cited mainly as his leadership in the locker room. While Kelsay is a hard worker with a strong hustle, his declining age doesn't fit his inflated contract.

By releasing Kelsay, the Bills would save roughly $2.55 million in cap space.

DE/DT/OLB Spencer Johnson

Spencer Johnson just becomes a casualty of the transition to the 4-3 defense, as the roster is now loaded with defensive tackles. General manager Buddy Nix even stated that he was looking to get the team younger, and there just isn't a place for Johnson on the roster.

In his four seasons with the Bills, he recorded eight sacks in a rotational role, but at 30 years old, it's time to cut your losses. 

By releasing Johnson, the Bills would save approximately $3 million.

DE Dwan Edwards 

The Bills snagged Edwards from the Ravens when they decided to make the move to the 3-4 front, and he performed well, engaging blockers and allowing linebackers to make plays. However, with the move back to the 4-3, Edwards just doesn't fit the bill. With Edwards slated to make roughly $4 million in 2012, it's highly likely that Edwards will be moving out of Buffalo. 

By releasing Edwards, the Bills would save about $3.8 million.

All in all, by releasing these three players, the Bills could add another $9.35 million to their offseason spending spree.