REPORT DATES: Rookies July 25th, Veterans July 25th

SITE: St. John Fisher College, Pittsford, NY

CAMP OBJECTIVES: Following safety Donte Whitner's eye-popping guarantee that the Bills would reach the playoffs for the first time since 1999, look for Buffalo to have plenty of spring in its step in Pittsford. The Bills were in the playoff chase into December last year, likely prompting Whitner's feelings, though the safety wasn't up-close-and-personal with an offense that ranked 25th in NFL rushing offense and 29th in passing offense. Quarterback Trent Edwards needs to prove he's truly ready to lead a pro attack at the age of 24, and wideout James Hardy (Indiana), the only notable addition to the offense in the offseason, needs to mature quickly in order to help him. Also, let's not forget that this will be an important camp for a brand-new coordinator, Turk Schonert. Defensively, the Bills have added three potential starters in tackle Marcus Stroud (Jaguars), linebacker Kawika Mitchell (Giants), and rookie cornerback Leodis McKelvin (Troy). Given the shaky state of the offense, head coach Dick Jauron must continue to stress defense and special teams throughout the summer.

PRESEASON SCHEDULE:

Aug 9 - at Washington, 7:00 PM Aug 14 - vs. Pittsburgh, 7:30 PM Aug 24 - at Indianapolis, 8:00 PM Aug 28 - vs. Detroit, 6:30 PM