Bills HC on E.J. Manuel: ‘He probably practiced the least’ of anyone in the league
By Mike Dyce
The Buffalo Bills were hoping to find their new franchise quarterback in E.J. Manuel. He struggled to stay on the field during his rookie season, playing most of it through injuries.
“He played last year and really didn’t practice that much,” head coach Doug Marrone said, via Tim Graham of the Buffalo News. “If you think about all the players that played in the league, he probably practiced the least and played. For us, the priority, just like all the players, is to make sure that we keep him healthy. It’s important for us, important for his development.”
Manuel played in 10 games completed 180 of 306 (58.8%) of his passes for 1,972 yards with 11 touchdowns and nine interceptions. Marrone’s comments suggest that he is making an excuse or explaining Manuel’s performance and suggesting they’d like to give him another chance under center.
Then NFL.com reports that Marrone said his team could go any direction at quarterback, including without Manuel under center.
"Don’t be surprised if EJ Manuel isn’t under center for the Buffalo Bills by next Halloween.Speaking at the NFL Scouting Combine on Thursday, coach Doug Marrone said his team can go in any direction at the position."