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As we begin the preseason, there are naturally players that everyone is eager to see like Mario Williams. There are also players that still have something to prove coming of injury or a specific role they’re trying to nail down. Here’s a look at some of the players with a lot more on the line than most.

1 – Cordy Glenn – With Chris Hairston forced to play more right tackle in the absence of veteran starter Erik Pears, Glenn has been the beneficiary getting a boatload of reps on the blind side. Those reps are going to need to pay off in the preseason opener when Glenn squares off against Brian Orakpo. Reacting to counter moves is where Glenn has to show he’s improved.

2 – Derek Hagan – The veteran receiver has had a strong camp thus far and needs to carry the consistency and effort he’s shown on the practice field into the game. Hagan has been more physical in fighting for contested passes in camp. If he can put that into action Thursday night he’ll all but have one of the receiver spots locked up.

3 – Shawne Merriman – The pass rusher finally looks healthy missing just one practice thus far in camp with a rolled ankle coming off Achilles surgery. He has stated that he feels his trademark burst is back. For fans seeing is believing. If the burst is back Buffalo’s pressure packages will be all the more potent this season.  

4 – Arthur Moats – The third-year player has taken quickly to the strong side linebacker position earning the starting nod tonight over veteran Kirk Morrison. His reads have to be consistent and he has to be sharp with assignments to allow his athleticism to shine through.

5 – Da’Norris Searcy – The defensive staff has made a point of rotating Searcy in with the starting unit as he’s been subbed in for both George Wilson and Jairus Byrd at times. It’s clear they’d like to develop some kind of part time role for him. Searcy has to turn in some plays in the preseason to convince the staff he’s ready for such a role Sept. 9^th and not around midseason.