AFC East Notes: Bills, Jets, Patriots

Bills

• Bills DC Leslie Frazier referred to Trent Murphy as “our No. 1 at left end” and “our starter” for the time being.
• Mike Rodak notes that Frazier’s support of Murphy is further evidence that former first-round DE Shaq Lawson has ground to make up this summer.
• Bills TE Nick O’Leary was seen Sunday sporting a walking boot on his right ankle. (Dan Fetes)

Jets

Rich Cimini reports that the major sticking point in the ongoing standoff between the Jets and first-round QB Sam Darnold is related to default language pertaining to guaranteed money.

According to Cimini, the Jets’ proposal would void Darnold’s entire guarantee if he’s fined by the league for discipline or conduct on/off the field, which is different from the Baker Mayfield and Josh Allen contracts.

Both Mayfield and Allen’s guarantee void with a suspension, but not a fine. Cimini explains that the Jets’ approach is unusual based on recent history, seeing as no top-3 pick in the past 10 drafts had voidables tied to league fines.

Mike Garafolo reports that only six teams granted language Darnold and Bears LB Roquan Smith are seeking.

According to Manish Mehta, the Jets’ offer voids guarantees for suspensions and fines relating to PEDs/steroids and conduct detrimental to the team.

• The Jets elected to sign RB George Atkinson to a contract Sunday (NFLTR) after hosting a number of free agents for tryouts.
• According to Ian Rapoport, it sounds like the Jets’ top choice was to sign veteran RB Alfred Morris, but the two sides couldn’t come to terms on an agreement.

Patriots

Patriots WR Julian Edelman posted another apology for his four-game suspension on Sunday.

“It’s been one heck of a few months and a crazy year,” Edelman wrote on Instagram. “My deepest apologies to my family, friends, peers, coaches and fans. What I can say, and what I am most thankful for, is the overwhelming support I have received from everyone. The love and support has truly helped me through what has been a challenging time. Whether it’s a person walking down Newbury street, or someone next to me filling up their gas tank saying they have my back. I can’t thank Pat’s Nation enough. It inspires me to go out and work that much harder for you guys. Remember, tough times don’t last, tough people do.”

• Reiss notes that second-round pick Duke Dawson is in the mix to be the Patriots’ top nickel option.
• According to Reiss, Eric Rowe is a bit ahead of J.C. Jackson, Jason McCourty and Ryan Lewis for the No. 2 cornerback job right now.
• Jim McBride reports that Patriots WR Jordan Matthews is expected to miss just a few days after he tweaked his right hamstring early in Sunday’s practice.