Quarterback Tyler Thigpen takes pay cut to continue playing for Buffalo Bills – NFL News
In a drastic move to keep himself with Buffalo Bills, quarterback Tyler Thigpen has agreed to have a pay cut of $ 1 million for the remainder of his contract.
Both sides agreed to terms in order to move forward before the start of the 2012 season.
Thigpen confirmed the news on Monday, September 03, 2012. The news was first reported in the media on Sunday that Thigpen was hoping to stay in Buffalo despite the addition of other quarterbacks on the roster.
While explaining the reasons behind his decision, Thigpen said:
"There were a lot of reasons behind it, My agent talked to them, and I'm just glad to be here, and looking forward to the season."
After addition of Tarvaris Jackson from Seattle Seahawks last week, it was expected that Bills would release Thigpen. Then a show of generosity was displayed from the Bills as they listed Thigpen on their final 53-man roster.
After getting the pay cut, Thigpen will receive $1.5 million in base salary this season as well as in the 2013 season.
Bills go into the new season with four quarterbacks on the roster. Ryan Fitzpatrick will be the starter. Thigpen will fight for the backup position with Jackson.
Wild cat package c*m wide receiver Brad Smith has already been named the no. 3 quarterback.
Bills head coach has been Chan Gailey has been appreciative of Thigpen for his output in the offseason. He previously said:
“Tyler played good. He did. He made it tough. It was all on the line, so he did a good job.”
The main reason behind the Bills’ decision seems to be the familiarity Thigpen has with their offensive schemes, something which Jackson currently does not have. Thigpen will not get much difficulty playing as a backup in case of emergency.
Thigpen is a vastly experienced professional having spent six years playing in the National Football League (NFL). He started his career with Kansas City Chiefs who drafted him in the seventh round (217th overall pick) of the 2007 draft.
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