This afternoon, Kellen Winslow Jr. came out and said that the Buccaneers have informed him that he is not in their future plans and that he’d be placed on the trade block.  This news is not shocking as Greg Schiano’s offense doesn’t necessarily showcase the tight-end position (although a deal with Dallas Clark seems imminent).  Winslow may be a bit of a headcase, but there are many reasons why the Bills should be calling him if he is released.

73 Receptions on Average in the Last Three Seasons

Ask Bills fans the question of who is the best tight-end we’ve ever had and you’ll immediately hear Pete Metzelaars (pictured left).  You won’t hear any arguments from me on this, but the most receptions Pete ever had in a season was 68 in 1993. Not only is Kellen Winslow Jr. an immediate upgrade to our current offense, but we’d be bringing in a player more productive than any tight end in our history. The fact that Metzelaars is now our Tight End Coach would make acquiring Winslow that much sweeter.  Who better than Pete Metzelaars to teach Winslow about Buffalo and their love of productive tight ends?

Winslow is Not Known for his Blocking

I know that using a negative isn’t generally a best practice for convincing people to bring a player in, but look at the Bills offense.  We are a quick-throw offense where we try to get the ball out as soon as possible.  Winslow is a sharp route runner who creates separation at the point and would fit perfectly in our offense.  As for his blocking, Winslow is honestly an average blocker, but the fact that he isn’t a great blocker really shouldn’t be counted against him.

Takes Pressure Off Of Our #2 Receiver

I truthfully have no idea who is going to be our number 2 receiver this season.  I’m holding out hope that Marcus Easley plays his way into this role or that Donald Jones shows significant improvement.  Maybe T.J. Graham will be an instant starter but his size worries me on the outside.  As of right now, whomever wins this role is expected to take pressure off of Stevie Johnson and be a productive player in our offense.  Bring in Kellen Winslow Jr. and all of a sudden the pressure to produce at a high-level is off of the winner of the training camp battle.  Winslow will become our second receiver by default and be another red zone target.

But Chan Gailey Doesn’t Utilize the Tight End in His Offense

96 Receptions, 1,058 yards, 10 TDs

“What is Tony Gonzalez’s stats under Chan Gailey in 2008, Alex?”

It’s time to put the theory to rest that Gailey’s offense doesn’t use a tight end.  If Chan Gailey has a TE in his offense that is capable of producing, he’ll utilize him.  Gailey is no fool.  He takes the best players and works them into his gameplan. This would be the case for Kellen Winslow Jr. as well.

Okay #BillsMafia it’s time for you to voice your opinion.  Do you want Kellen Winslow Jr on the Bills this season or not?  Leave a comment and let your voices be heard.