AFC Notes: Bills, Broncos, Jaguars

Bills

• Bills HC Sean McDermott was initially noncommittal on QB Tyrod Taylor‘s starting job following Thursday night’s preseason game against the Eagles. (Vic Carucci)
• However, McDermott later clarified that Taylor’s starting job is safe and they aren’t actually considering a change. (Vic Carucci)

Broncos

Broncos VP of player personnel John Elway explained that they’re still hoping for the quarterback situation to work itself out on its own.

“We’d like the decision made by itself,” Elway said, via Josh Dubow of the Associated Press. “We want one of them to take the reins and take over. That would be the ideal situation. We’ll get through this game and see what happens.”

“I don’t know if it’s last chance or make or break,” Elway said. “Right now, I know the coaches are just expecting the quarterbacks to go out there and move the ball and score points. So that’s what I’m really focused on and that’s what I’ve been focused on since I’ve had the opportunity to play quarterback here. It’s just getting better and progressing, then seeing the progression in me.”

Jaguars

• Following Thursday’s preseason game, Jaguars HC Doug Marrone told reporters that the starting quarterback job is: “Right up there for grabs, and either person can take it.” (John Oesher)
• The Jaguars actually gave Chad Henne more work than anticipated with the No. 1 offense, but Marrone said of Blake Bortles: “It’s not like he’s not the quarterback. He’s got to go earn it.” (John Oesher)
• Pro Football Talk mentions that Bortles could be headed for the same fate as Robert Griffin III a few years ago when he was benched in order to avoid an injury that would guarantee him a sizable salary next year.
• Bortles acknowledged that he has to play better and that he’s competing for a job like everyone else: “At any position, it’s an open competition every single day. You have to earn the right to start at your position. Nothing changes for me. My mindset doesn’t change. Obviously tonight wasn’t a good showcase.” (Ryan O’Halloran)