Predicting the Buffalo Bills Roster: Tight End

Final roster cuts are arriving this weekend and the Buffalo Bills have a tight competition at tight end.  Teams are expected to shrink their rosters down to 53 men by Saturday.  The Bills have never kept more than three tight ends in their past few seasons.  With the lack of production at that position, I would not be surprised if that would change.

The Buffalo Bills currently have five tight ends on their roster: Derek Fine, Derek Schouman, Shawn Nelson, Jonathan Stupar, and Tyson Devree.  All of these tight ends bring something strong to the team.  But one or more will be cut come Saturday.

Derek Fine

He was a fourth-round draft pick in 2008.  Missed the first six games due to an injured thumb and emerged in a game against the Jets, showing athleticism and great blocking techniques.  Lately has been injured, maybe worse than we all think, and could start the season on PUP.

Derek Schouman

Drafted in the seventh round of the 2007 draft.  Throughout time in Buffalo he has proven to be a good blocker and alright in the passing game.  Nothing special from him but he gets his job done.  Word is this year he has added extra muscle and has shown to be gaining steps in the passing game.  He will make the final roster and possibly start.

Shawn Nelson

Drafted in the fourth round of the 2009 draft.  Viewed of as a steal because of his strengths in the passing game.  Showed flexibility and great hands.  Needs to work on blocking slightly, but expect him to make an impact in the passing game throughout the season.  Will make final roster.

Tyson Devree

If Derek Fine is healthy, he will not make the team.  The Buffalo Bills signed him late in the preseason, yet some say he is viewed as more than just a body for the training.  This leads me to believe that Derek Fine is not healthy and will start the season on PUP.  When Fine comes off, Devree will be cut.

Jonathan Stupar

Jonathan Stupar has shown great abilities in the passing game.  He has been leading in receiving and has shown play-making consistency.  I expect him to make the final roster because of how well he has played throughout the preseason.

In the end I think this is the year the Bills keep four tight ends.  And on game day it will consist of Schouman, Fine, Stupar, and Nelson.  Devree is just a body for preseason, but he may matter as Fine's injury may be more serious than they think.