Buffalo Bills: Will Tyrod Taylor be ready for Week 1?

Will Tyrod Taylor be under center for the start of the regular season, when the Buffalo Bills take the field to face the New York Jets?

It’s fair to say August was a strange time for everyone concerned with the Buffalo Bills. Trading away Sammy Watkins, Anquan Boldin retiring shortly after signing, and Marcell Dareus being sent home ahead of the game against the Baltimore Ravens, all contributed to a surreal vibe around One Bills Drive.

As such, the possibility of Tyrod Taylor missing the start of the regular season, perfectly fits in with the narrative of the last few weeks. He had to leave the Ravens game on the opening offensive drive and has since been placed in concussion protocol.

The question is, how likely is it that Taylor will still be out, when the Bills take the field in Week 1, to face the New York Jets? As recently as Tuesday he was still in concussion protocol, with head coach Sean McDermott admitting there was at least some concern about his quarterback being ready for Sept. 10.

However, as of Thursday, there was more optimism surrounding the 2015 Pro Bowler, at least according to general manager Brandon Beane. Speaking to John Murphy and Donald Jones on WGR 550, Beane said:

"“I feel good about it. I’ve seen Tyrod, talked to him. I think from a layman’s perspective, he seems like he’s doing well, and I feel like he, in his mind, is on track and ready to play that Week 1.”"

Of course, it makes sense that Taylor genuinely believes he will be ready for the start of the regular season. This is exactly the type of mindset you want — and expect — from your de facto number one QB.

Regardless, this is still some doubt surrounding the 2011 sixth round draft pick’s availability. Even Beane admitted to this, saying Nathan Peterman will be ready to go against the Jets, if called upon.

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This is an important season for Taylor, who is seen as a polarizing figure in Western New York. He has shown flashes of his potential, but is yet to perform on a consistent basis.

On the plus side, the 28-year-old takes excellent care of the football — as evidenced by just 12 picks in two seasons — and leads all quarterbacks in rushing, dating back to the start of the 2015 campaign. However, he often holds onto the ball too long and has shown a lack of confidence in going over the middle of the field. (Something which Boldin would have helped greatly with.)

For his part, it’s worth noting Taylor is committed to Buffalo and doing everything he can to help the team win. Look no further than his agreeing to a restructured contract, back in March.

Next: Can the Bills rely on Cordy Glenn?

How confident are you, that Taylor will be ready to start in Week 1? Regardless, what kind of season are you expecting from him overall? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.