(Continuing a month-long series analyzing players who are on the roster bubble and where they may potentially fit in 2014.)
Name: Cyril Richardson
Position: Guard
Age: 23
2013 stats: 13 games (all starts) -- at Baylor
Chance of making 53-man roster: 70 percent
Why he should make it: Despite falling to the fifth round in May, Richardson was a finalist for the Outland Trophy, which is awarded to college football's top interior lineman, last season. He offers long-term starting potential if he can find his footing on the NFL level. Because of that, it would make sense for the Bills to hold onto Richardson, even if it means he's inactive every game this season. He would be a tough player to "sneak" onto the practice squad after final cuts.
Why he shouldn't make it: The one comment that gives us pause about Richardson came from general manager Doug Whaley when the Bills traded for Mike Williams earlier this offseason. Whaley said that a sixth-round pick, which the Bills gave up for Williams, may not make the team's roster this season. Being a fifth-round pick gives Richardson more security, but perhaps the Bills wouldn't have a problem parting with a later-round draft choice. Doug Legursky projects as the top interior backup on the offensive line, so there is a chance that Richardson is beaten out by J.J. Unga, Edawn Coughman, Mark Asper, or even Chris Hairston, who has seen reps at guard in organized team activities (OTAs).
Closest competition: Unga, Hairston, Coughman
