Here's the top Bills news for Oct. 3rd.
**1 - Dareus to play Sunday in L.A.
**Defensive tackle Marcell Dareus completed his four-game league-imposed suspension this past Sunday. He's eligible to rejoin the team and participate in practices. Head coach Rex Ryan said it is their full intention to have him back in the lineup on Sunday against the Rams in Los Angeles.
"I expect him to play (Sunday). He's already been delayed four games. So he'll play," said head coach Rex Ryan Monday. "In what capacity? How much he really plays I'm not sure, but he's definitely going to play."
Ryan said though he didn't see him personally, that Dareus was at the team facility at One Bills Drive Monday getting back up to speed with the defensive scheme.
"My understanding is he's in good spirits and looking forward to getting back out there with his teammates," Ryan said.
Defensive coordinator Dennis Thurman said a week ago that Dareus will initially be worked back into the lineup in a rotational capacity rather than a full-time role knowing he's not in football shape.
2 - Shaq expected to play Week 7Another reinforcement on schedule to return to the lineup is top draft choice Shaq Lawson. Bills GM Doug Whaley said in a radio appearance last week that Lawson, who is on Reserve/PUP following offseason shoulder surgery, was on schedule to begin practicing as soon as he's eligible in Week 7.
Head coach Rex Ryan said his progress is so encouraging that he's convinced Lawson will be added back to the 53-man roster in Week 7 and play that Sunday when Buffalo is on the road at Miami.
"I think he's going to be ready to roll," said Ryan. "I think when his time is up he's doing a really good job in the weight room. Now he's not going to be in football shape, so don't expect him to just come in and start. He hasn't been through one NFL practice, but we'll definitely work him in when he gets back. I would anticipate him getting back as soon as he's eligible."
Ryan is excited to see the team's top pick get on the field and add to their pass rush.
"We're definitely looking forward to it," he said. "I think he's an outstanding player and loves to play the game. A passionate guy. I think he's going to fit right in with the guys that we have. It's only going to help us. When you're able to keep a guy like Lorenzo Alexander fresh or give Jerry Hughes a few plays off I think that helps the whole team."
3 - Justin Hunter could see action SundayAnother player who could make his Bills debut Sunday is WR Justin Hunter, whom the Bills claimed off waivers from Miami last week. Buffalo put the claim in after they knew they were placing WR Sammy Watkins on injured reserve.
"It's a possibility we'll see him this Sunday," said Ryan. "I know he's been at it. He's studying so we'll see how he is on the practice field. I hope he can help us because I'd like to get that big body out there, that kind of size and speed that he has. I think that can really help us, particularly in the red zone. Hopefully he gets up to speed quickly."
