The Bills made sure to keep a dependable veteran player in the fold of their defense as they signed outside linebacker Chris Kelsay to a contract extension.
"We signed an extension (Tuesday) and got everything finalized, a four-year extension," said Kelsay. "I'm very pleased. I think both sides are very happy with the situation and it gives me an opportunity to finish my career a Buffalo Bill."
Kelsay, who was a second-round pick of the Bills in 2003, has appeared in 113 games for Buffalo making 90 starts. He made no secret that it was a priority for him to spend his entire career with one NFL franchise.
"I said from day one that I'd be loyal to this organization," said Kelsay. "They took a chance on me when they drafted me fairly high. We haven't done a lot of winning since I've been here, but I think that's going to turn around. I want to be a part of the solution. I don't want to be part of the problem and by staying put I think you have your best chance of winning. You don't want to leave a franchise that's been so loyal to you and miss out on where they're going. I'm real confident about where this team is headed."
Entering his eighth season with the Bills, Kelsay undertook the difficult transition from defensive end to outside linebacker as the club switched defensive systems going from a 4-3 front to a 3-4. But Kelsay is convinced it's the right move for the team and believes he will contribute to what he feels will be more positive results in time.
"I like the direction that Buddy (Nix) and Chan (Gailey) has this team going in," he said. "I like the coaching staff and though it's been a learning process going from a 4-3 to a 3-4 I feel like I can do a lot of good things in this defense. Like any transition it has taken some time, but I feel confident in where we're going and think we'll get there sooner rather than later."
