Buffalo Bills: Goodbye Bryce Brown, we hardly knew you

Bryce Brown’s release brings an unceremonious end to his tenure with the Buffalo Bills

The Buffalo Bills have released Bryce Brown, in a decision that likely shocked few people. In fact, maybe the only surprise is that it took this long.

More from Buffalo Bills News

The move was made to help facilitate the return of Marcell Dareus, and get the Bills roster back down to 53 players. The two-time Pro Bowler was suspended for week one, due to a violation of the NFL’s substance abuse policy.

One thing Brown’s release does, is end one of the absurd theories surrounding Fred Jackson‘s departure. There were suggestions that the only reason Jackson was released, was because general manager Doug Whaley was too stubborn to admit his mistake in trading for Brown last year.

Regardless, there were definitely high hopes for the 24-year old, when he first arrived from the Philadelphia Eagles. Look no further than his first NFL start back in 2012, on Monday Night Football no less.

Replacing an injured LeSean McCoy (somewhat ironic in hindsight), Brown rushed for 100 yards in the first half alone, including a 65-yard touchdown. He finished the game with 178 yards on the ground, and followed this up with 169 yards the next week.

Despite that spectacular introduction to the footballing public, the Wichita, Kansas native also gave an insight into his achilles heel, as he fumbled three times in those first two starts. The most costly turnover was in the second game, with his fumble being returned 50 yards for the deciding points in a heartbreaking defeat.

Unfortunately for Brown, his problems holding onto the ball followed him to Buffalo. In fact, he may best be remembered by Bill fans for his fumble at the Kansas City Chiefs one-yard line, in a 17-13 loss last season.

These issues continued into this year. Rex Ryan famously said back in March that he wasn’t going to learn his name until “he holds onto the football”.

Entering training camp, the 2012 seventh round draft pick’s roster spot was definitely in jeopardy. However, he did his best to boost his chances, rushing for 89 yards in two preseason games, at 5.9 yards per carry. (He missed the other two contests with a hamstring injury.)

Ultimately though, Brown couldn’t get past his fumbling troubles, something which running backs coach Anthony Lynn was critical of during camp. The writing was on the wall when he was inactive for the week one win against the Indianapolis Colts.

The 2008 Hall Trophy winner finishes his Bills career with 126 rushing yards and another 176 through the air, in seven appearances. His release saves $620,000 in cap space, due to his salary not being guaranteed.

Next: How long will Charles Clay last in Buffalo?

More from BuffaLowDown

Home/Buffalo Bills News