The Bills’ first depth chart was released Saturday. Although it will likely change, it offers a good look at where certain players are at this stage of training camp.
Here’s a look at some of the highlights:
Hairston at LT: Chris Hairston is listed with the starters at LT ahead of Cordy Glenn. That could be expected based on Hairston’s seniority, but Glenn has also had some struggles at recent practices. It’s possible that Hairston, who hasn’t exactly impressed either, wins the job by default.
Anderson at RDE: Mark Anderson has been a standout on the DL since the spring, so it’s no surprise that he’s ahead of Shawne Merriman and Chris Kelsay on the depth chart. Barring a setback, Anderson should win the starting job.
Hagan gains separation from Easley: It all likelihood, the Bills have one open receiver spot -- or, if they decide to keep six receivers, two spots. Steve Johnson, Donald Jones, David Nelson and T.J. Graham are locks to make the team. Derek Hagan is among the top-four receivers on the depth chart, and rightfully so -- the journeyman has built upon his success in the spring and is developing a rapport with Ryan Fitzpatrick. Marcus Easley -- the former fourth-round pick who has missed each of his first two seasons due to injury -- is outside of the top six. Easley may need to stand out in preseason games to have a chance of sticking around.
Thigpen at No. 2 QB: Just like with LT, this isn’t a surprise because Thigpen has seniority over Young. It’s expected that Young has the edge to make the team, although both have had their share of problems at camp.
Rogers, McKelvin are top returners: The Bills’ top returners are the same from the end of last year, with Justin Rogers and Leodis McKelvin handling kick and punt returns, respectively. This could change as special teams coach Bruce DeHaven said last week that it’s far too early to draw any conclusions in the return game. The Bills are loaded with return candidates, with players like Brad Smith, C.J. Spiller and T.J. Graham all celebrated returners.
For more updates on the Bills follow correspondent Mark Ludwiczak on Twitter @CBSSportsNFLBUF and@MarkLud12.