Bills notebook: Lehman will add depth at linebacker
The Buffalo Bills gave themselves some much-needed insurance at linebacker Friday by signing veteran free agent Teddy Lehman.
Lehman spent the past four seasons with Detroit. He had a standout rookie season in 2004, starting 16 games. But ankle and foot injuries ruined his seasons in 2005 and 2006. He returned to the field as a backup for the Lions last year.
To make room for Lehman, the Bills placed cornerback Ashton Youboty on the injured-reserve list. It’s a disappointing finish to Youboty’s third season. He played well in training camp and in the first month of the season as the Bills’ nickel corner. But Youboty has plantar fasciitis, a painful inflammatory condition in the area of the foot that supports the arch.
Lehman can play both inside and outside linebacker. The Bills had a need for experienced depth linebacker because of injuries to Angelo Crowell, rookie Alvin Bowen and veteran John DiGiorgio. All of them are out for the season. The Bills promoted practice-squad rookie Marcus Buggs to the active roster on Oct. 22.
Lehman is a product of the University of Oklahoma. He was the winner of the awards for best linebacker in the country (Butkus) and best defensive player (Bednarik) as a senior. He was drafted in the second round by the Lions in 2004.
He left Detroit in March as a free agent to sign with Tampa. But the Bucs released him before training camp. He re-signed with Detroit and was cut by the Lions before the start of the season.
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It appears Kirk Chambers will get the chance to prove his versatility Sunday against New England.
Chambers, the Bills’ No. 3 tackle, is the likely starter at right guard for the game due to injury.
Bills coach Dick Jauron ruled out starter Brad Butler after Friday’s workout in Ralph Wilson Stadium. Butler will miss his third straight game due to a sprained knee suffered against San Diego. Butler’s usual backup, veteran Jason Whittle, only was able to work on a limited basis this week due to a sore back. He’s listed as questionable for the game.
Before this week, Chambers has worked exclusively at tackle for the Bills. A fourth-year veteran, he worked with the starting offense in practice Friday. Chambers started the season opener at right tackle for the Bills. He made one start last season for Buffalo.
He said the last time he played guard in a game was during preseason with Cleveland in 2005. Chambers said his knowledge of the tackle spot helps in playing guard.
“It sure does; as guard whenever I have to work with the tackle I know what the call is,” he said. “I’ve been making an emphasis to learn the guard’s calls with the center. Really, it has helped me understand the whole offense better.”
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The Patriots have plenty of injuries, as well. Running back Sammy Morris (knee) is doubtful. His replacement, LaMont Jordan (calf), is questionable and was not able to practice a second straight day. It appears he will miss the game. Cornerback Terrence Wheatley (wrist) is out. Cornerback Ellis Hobbs (shoulder) is questionable. Nose tackle Vince Wilfork (toe) is questionable.
email: mgaughan@buffnews.com
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