Bills RB C.J. Spiller Discusses Impending Free Agency, Says He “Would Love” To Stay In Buffalo

 

After his first offseason workout Tuesday, Buffalo Bills RB C.J. Spiller discussed his situation as he enters the final year of his contract.

As Mike Rodak of ESPN wrote, some of Spiller’s comments may make Bills fans worried, though Spiller ultimately stated that he “would love to stay” and finish his career with Buffalo.

“It’s my first rodeo.  I’ll take advice from the guys that have been there before” Spiller said.  “I’ll reach out to Jairus [Byrd] and see how he handled it.”

Jairus Byrd engaged in lengthy discussions with the Bills this offseason, before ultimately taking a six-year deal with the New Orleans Saints.  It should be noted however, that unlike Byrd, Spiller did participate in the offseason program.

Rodak also noted that Spiller is in the process of hiring an agent as he’s currently without representation.

Spiller did not provide a timeline for negotiations, but he is cognizant of the current landscape for NFL running backs.

“If you look at this free agency, running backs really didn’t make a big splash in the market.”  Spiller continued “To me you’re always going to need a running back.  A quarterback’s best friend is a running back.”

Spiller’s production dipped a bit last season under HC Doug Marrone when he posted 933 yards rushing on 202 attempts, good for 4.6 yards per carry.  In 2012, Spiller registered 6.0 yards per carry on 207 attempts.

Spiller appears to be doing everything an impending free agent should-hiring representation, attending workouts, seeking to commence negotiation.  Despite Rodak’s concern, Spiller appears to be merely keeping his options open.

“There’s not too many guys that can say that they’ve played [their whole] career at one spot,” he said. “But at the same time, you’ve got to be a realist with yourself and understand that this is a business, as well. But my goal — I would love to stay here and finish my career — but who knows how it’ll play out.”