Merriman's extension would have been met with notably more fanfare two months ago, but his profile has nosedived even more since the Bills picked him up off waivers from the San Diego Chargers on Nov. 3.
Sources close to Merriman said he was unhappy to be headed to Buffalo. Merriman took several days to report to the Bills. He fired his agent, something he has done repeatedly throughout his career. About 15 minutes into Merriman's first Bills practice, he injured himself yet again and was done for the season.
Merriman's latest injury plus the uncertainties involved with the NFL's labor situation doomed his future prospects. His chances of re-signing with the Bills also were impacted by his agent switch.
The Bills, winless when they acquired him and desperate for pass-rush help, apparently maintained their interest in him while other teams became more wary than before.
