BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — All three quarterbacks that ended the 2018 season with the Buffalo Bills, are set to return this Spring.
On Monday, the Bills signed QB Derek Anderson to a one-year contact extension, a little more than a week after the team signed QB Matt Barkley to an extension through 2020. Allen will remain with the team under his rookie contract.
Anderson joined the Bills in early October after Allen suffered an elbow injury. He started two games this season, completing 44 of 70 passes for 465 yards and four interceptions.
Joe B's Take
- The move to extend Derek Anderson's contract by one season is somewhat surprising, only due to the fact that the Bills seemingly had to coax Anderson out of free agency a month into the season in order to join the organization. However, the move itself, is one that is excellent for the long-term hopes of the organization.
From this point forward, the single-most important priority for the Bills is in the development of young quarterback Josh Allen, and getting Anderson to come back around for another season is a big victory for the organization. Since Anderson came on board, Allen started taking preparation methods that Anderson used in his weeks starting and implemented them into his own style.
When you look on the sidelines during games, it's usually Anderson right next to Allen discussing the previous drive and/or defensive looks. So, even though Anderson isn't likely going to see the field in any capacity, having his voice and guidance in the quarterback room is incredibly valuable to both the Bills and Allen.
Now in combination with Matt Barkley, the Bills have a clearly set quarterback depth chart in Allen, Barkley, and Anderson with all three understanding the common goal they're all working toward. Having a pair of veteran players that are willingly supportive of Allen, invested in his growth, and helping him in his development is vital to the organization moving forward.
