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Buffalo Bills Capsule

NFL, Buffalo Bills, New York Jets, Philadelphia Eagles, New England Patriots, New York Giants

BUFFALO BILLS (9-7)

OPEN CAMP: July 31, St. John Fisher College, Pittsford, New York.

LAST YEAR: Despite posting first winning record in a decade, Bills missed playoffs for 15th consecutive season -- NFL's longest active drought -- because of sputtering offense and questions at quarterback. In October, NHL Buffalo Sabres owners Terry and Kim Pegula infused stability by vowing to keep Bills in western New York after purchasing team for NFL-record $1.4 billion following Hall of Fame owner Ralph Wilson's death in March. Coach Doug Marrone stepped down abruptly on Dec. 31, leading Pegulas to hire former Jets coach Rex Ryan.

IMPORTANT ADDITIONS: Ryan; offensive coordinator Greg Roman; RB LeSean McCoy; WR Percy Harvin; QBs Matt Cassel and Tyrod Taylor; TE Charles Clay; OG Richie Incognito; FB Jerome Felton.

IMPORTANT LOSSES: LBs Kiko Alonso and Brandon Spikes; RB C.J. Spiller; QB Kyle Orton; S Da'Norris Searcy; TE Scott Chandler.

CAMP NEEDS: Identifying starting quarterback amid three-player competition between Cassel, Taylor and EJ Manuel, Bills' 2013 first-round pick who lost job to Kyle Orton one month into last season. Settling offensive line concerns on and off field. Guards Incognito and rookie third-round pick John Miller are counted on to take over as starters. O-line coach Aaron Kromer's status is uncertain after being placed on indefinite paid leave for allegedly punching boy and threatening to kill his family.

EXPECTATIONS: They're sky high. Ryan's brash approach, combined with McCoy's acquisition to lead "ground-and-pound" running attack and talent-laden, attacking defense that returns mostly intact puts Buffalo in position to improve on 2014 win total. Playoff contender? It'll be clearer after opening month that features games against Indianapolis, New England, Miami and Giants.

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