Defensive back Corey Graham is a proven playmaker. That trait could land him in somewhat unfamiliar territory this offseason.
At the NFL's annual meetings Tuesday, coach Doug Marrone praised the 28-year-old's on-field abilities, particularly his versatility in the backfield. That versatility could thrust the newly acquired Graham out of his normal cornerback role completely, and into the safety slot.
"What’s interesting about him is he can play an outside corner and play it well," Marrone said, via BuffaloBills.com. "He can play nickel and start at nickel and that would be a good competition in there.
"He’s also a physical player who had about 70 tackles and four fumble recoveries (last year) where he may be in the mix at the safety spot."
"There are a lot of things we’ve been talking about with Corey and amongst ourselves as a defensive staff. So we’ll go out there in OTAs and it’ll be the same thing. I like moving some guys around a little bit and that’s the time where you do it."
To be fair, Graham had four interceptions last season and only one fumble recovery, but his presence was certainly noted. At 6 feet tall and nearly 200 pounds, he certainly fits the mold of an agile, hard-hitting safety, and his contributions alongside Aaron Williams and Da'Norris Searcy would make for a formidable trio in sub packages.
The Buffalo Bills have already successfully transitioned one cornerback to the safety position (Williams), and according to Brown, Graham has already dabbled in the role with other teams.
With the league moving toward more nickel and dime formations to account for more passing, it never hurts to have a hybrid, particularly one who stays healthy.
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To be fair, Graham had four interceptions last season and only one fumble recovery, but his presence was certainly noted. At 6 feet tall and nearly 200 pounds, he certainly fits the mold of an agile, hard-hitting safety, and his contributions alongside Aaron Williams and Da'Norris Searcy would make for a formidable trio in sub packages.
The Buffalo Bills have already successfully transitioned one cornerback to the safety position (Williams), and according to Brown, Graham has already dabbled in the role with other teams.
With the league moving toward more nickel and dime formations to account for more passing, it never hurts to have a hybrid, particularly one who stays healthy.
Follow Dan @DanBegnoche
Follow AFC East Daily @AFCEastDaily
