Headed for free agency

Taylor finished the 2018 season having completed 49 percent of his passes for 473 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions in four games.

Analysis: Taylor wasn't heard from much after getting knocked out of the Browns' Week 3 matchup with the Jets, a game in which rookie Baker Mayfield came in and led Cleveland to victory before being named the starter for the rest of the season. While Taylor wasn't particularly impressive even when healthy and seeing playing time, he's still a solid passer who should have a healthy market as a free agent in March.

Logs full practice

Taylor (back) practiced fully Wednesday.

Analysis: Now fully recovered from a concussion and seemingly the back injury as well, Taylor is on track to dress in Sunday's game against the Ravens. After surrendering the starting gig to Baker Mayfield, Taylor will serve as the top backup option while Drew Stanton drops to the No. 3 role.

Officially inactive Sunday

Taylor (concussion/back) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Raiders.

Analysis: Taylor lost his starting job when rookie Baker Mayfield replaced him in Week 3 and came back to win against the Jets. Therefore, if he was healthy, Taylor would've been a backup, but Drew Stanton will take that role instead. Once Taylor's healthy again, he'll surely push Stanton back to the No. 3 spot, but Mayfield would have to lay an egg to be dethroned.

Won't serve as backup Sunday

Taylor (concussion/back) may not be active for Sunday's game against the Raiders with Drew Stanton expected to serve as the backup to starting quarterback Baker Mayfield, Sam Wyche of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Taylor exited the Week 3 game against the Jets with the concussion, clearing the way for Mayfield to guide the Browns to a comeback win and cement himself as the team's new No. 1 signal-caller. It looked as though Taylor would retain the top backup duties in Week 4 after clearing the concussion protocol a few days ago, but the back injury seems to have thwarted those plans. Taylor seems likely to be included among the Browns' inactives this week, but he should supplant Stanton as the No. 2…read more

Listed as questionable this week

Taylor (concussion/back) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Raiders, Nate Ulrich of the Akron Beacon Journal reports.

Analysis: The QB is traveling with the Browns to Oakland for the contest, but it remains to be seen if Taylor will be cleared to back up Baker Mayfield on Sunday. If he isn't, Drew Stanton would be in line to handle the assignment.

Dealing with back issue

Though Taylor has been cleared from the NFL's concussion protocol, he was limited by a back injury at Thursday's practice, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

Analysis: As a result, it's not a lock that Taylor will be available to back up Baker Mayfield on Sunday against the Raiders. If he can't go, Drew Stanton would work behind Mayfield in Week 4. Browns head coach Hue Jackson said he would name a No. 2 quarterback Friday before the team's flight to Oakland, according to Cabot.

Clears concussion protocol

Taylor has cleared the NFL's concussion protocol and will take part in Thursday's practice, Nate Ulrich of the Akron Beacon Journal reports.

Analysis: It remains to be seen if Taylor will be eased back into on-field activity with a limited or full practice, but either way, it looks like he's trending toward being available Sunday in Oakland. Head coach Hue Jackson already announced Monday that Taylor would be slated for backup duties behind No. 1 overall pick Baker Mayfield, who gets his first NFL start after coming off the bench to guide the Browns to their first victory in 635 days in Week 3 against the Jets.

Doesn't practice Wednesday

Taylor (concussion) didn't practice Wednesday, Andrew Gribble of the Browns' official site reports.

Analysis: Per head coach Hue Jackson, there's still hope that Taylor will clear the NFL's concussion protocol in advance of Sunday's game against the Raiders. If that doesn't occur, Drew Stanton would be in line to back up rookie Baker Mayfield, whom the Browns officially named as their starting quarterback for Week 4 on Monday.

Slated to back up Mayfield

Once he's cleared from his concussion, Taylor will serve as Baker Mayfield's backup.

Analysis: Taylor's concussion Week 3 opened the door for Mayfield to step into the fray Thursday night against the Jets. The rookie's sharp performance in the Browns' 21-17 win then left little doubt that he'd draw the start for a Week 4 game against the Raiders. Unless Mayfield falls completely flat, or suffers an injury, Taylor will continue on as veteran QB insurance and as a mentor to the No. 1 overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft.

Not at practice

Taylor (concussion) isn't at practice Monday, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

Analysis: With Baker Mayfield expected to be named as the Browns' starting quarterback later in the day, Taylor's practice availability shouldn't have much impact on the game plan for Week 4 against Oakland. The Browns will turn to Drew Stanton for the backup job if Taylor isn't cleared from the concussion protocol by Sunday.

Expected to clear protocol in Week 4

Taylor is expected to clear the NFL's concussion protocol prior to the Browns' Week 4 game against the Raiders, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: With the Browns trailing 14-0 late in the second quarter Thursday, Taylor sustained a head injury that resulted in him missing the rest of the contest. No. 1 overall pick Baker Mayfield took over under center and promptly led the Browns to a 21-17 victory, Cleveland's first in 635 days. Even though Taylor seems to be trending in the right direction, Mayfield's stellar performance off the bench will earn him his first career NFL start Week 4, resulting in Taylor assuming the backup role. In the…read more

Will give up starting job

Taylor is expected to yield the starting quarterback job to Baker Mayfield, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

Analysis: Coach Hue Jackson will wait until Monday to make the final decision, but his hand was essentially forced when Mayfield led the Browns to their first victory in 635 days Thursday versus the Jets. Taylor was knocked from the contest and diagnosed with a concussion with a little more than three minutes remaining in the second quarter, making him no guarantee to clear the protocol in time for a Week 4 matchup in Oakland on Sept. 30. Either way, Taylor is poised to move down the QB depth chart in…read more

Out with concussion

Taylor has been ruled out of Thursday's contest with a concussion, Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com reports.

Analysis: Taylor took a shot late in the second quarter and was sent to the locker room to be evaluated. His absence will clear the way for 2018 top overall pick Baker Mayfield to lead the Browns against the Jets defense. Mayfield completed three of four passes for 47 yards in his lone drive before halftime. It is unclear at this point who will retain the starting quarterback job going forward once Taylor is cleared for action.

Being evaluated for concussion

Taylor headed into the locker room just before halftime in Thursday's game against the Jets and is being evaluated for a concussion, Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com reports.

Analysis: Taylor hit his head hard on a hit in the second quarter and appeared to be jarred. After a brief evaluation in the tent, the veteran quarterback headed to the locker room, opening the door for rookie Baker Mayfield to take over the Browns offense. Taylor took three sacks and was 4 for 14 for 19 yards before exiting Thursday's contest, so there is no guarantee he will reclaim the starting quarterback job once cleared for return.

Throws touchdown in loss

Taylor completed 22 of 30 passes for 246 yards with a touchdown and an interception during Sunday's 21-18 loss to the Saints. He also accounted for 26 yards on the ground.

Analysis: It was a quiet and uninspiring game for Taylor until he found rookie wideout Antonio Callaway -- who started for the recently released Josh Gordon (hamstring) -- for a 42-yard touchdown in the final minutes of the fourth quarter to boost his stats. The former Bills' signal-caller did a nice job spreading the ball around, connecting with seven different pass catchers while targeting Jarvis Landry, Rashard Higgins and David Njoku seven times apiece. Taylor and the rest of Cleveland's offense will…read more

Makes impact on ground Sunday

Taylor completed 15 of 39 passes for 197 yards with a touchdown and an interception during Sunday's 21-21 tie with the Steelers. He also rushed for a team-high 77 yards and a score on eight carries.

Analysis: The weather in Cleveland wasn't ideal, as it rained for the majority of the contest, stifling both teams' offenses and contributing to Taylor's low percentage of completed passes. He did, however, make a significant impact with his feet and also found Josh Gordon for a touchdown late in the fourth quarter. Additionally, the veteran quarterback and Jarvis Landry showed a strong rapport in their first game together, connecting seven times for 106 yards on a whopping 15 targets. Taylor will look…read more

Not listed on injury report

Taylor isn't listed on Cleveland's initial injury report ahead of Sunday's opener against Pittsburgh, Scott Petrak of the Elyria Chronicle-Telegram reports.

Analysis: Taylor had a bit of a scare when he took an awkward fall on his non-throwing hand during Cleveland's third preseason game. He was ultimately diagnosed with a sore wrist and a dislocated pinkie finger, with head coach Hue Jackson maintaining all along that neither injury presented a threat to Taylor's status as the team's starting quarterback in Week 1. Taylor will have his full array of weapons to open the season, though Josh Gordon (hamstring) will be eased into action with a limited snap…read more

Will be rested Thursday

Taylor (wrist/finger) won't play in Thursday's preseason finale against the Lions, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

Analysis: Taylor suffered a bruised wrist and a dislocated pinkie in preseason action this past Thursday, but the plan to rest him in the team's preseason finale is due to coach Hue Jackson's decision to rest his starters, as opposed to any significant injury concerns. As a result, Baker Mayfield will draw the start this week before returning to backup duties behind Taylor when the Browns open their regular-season slate against the Steelers on Sept. 9.

Takes part in practice

Taylor practiced Saturday with his left hand wrapped, Scott Petrak of the Elyria Chronicle-Telegram reports.

Analysis: In the aftermath of Thursday's preseason win against the Eagles, Taylor was diagnosed with a sore wrist and dislocated pinky finger in his left hand, the result of an awkward fall. He was steadfast in his belief that he wouldn't miss practice, which came to pass Saturday. Due to the state of the hand, Taylor will almost certainly have limitations on his workload but doesn't appear as if he'll miss any regular-season games.

Should be fine to practice

Taylor (wrist, finger) isn't expected to miss any practice time, Scott Petrak of the Elyria Chronicle-Telegram reports.

Analysis: Though his injury initially looked serious, Taylor seems to have escaped Thursday's preseason game with nothing more than a sore wrist and a dislocated pinky finger on his non-throwing hand. Coach Hue Jackson expects his starting quarterback to participate when the team resumes practicing this weekend. No. 1 overall pick Baker Mayfield will need to wait at least a little bit longer for his shot at the starting job.

Suffered dislocated pinky as well

Taylor, who is dealing with a sore left wrist, also suffered a dislocated pinky during Thursday night's preseason game against the Eagles, the Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

Analysis: Initial X-rays on the QB's hand/wrist area came up negative, but Taylor still has further exams on tap. For now, the Browns expect Taylor to be okay after Thursday's injury scare, a notion supported by the fact that signal-caller re-entered the contest.

Expected to be okay

Coach Hue Jackson said he is "comfortable and confident" Taylor (hand) will be okay, Nate Ulrich of the Akron Beacon Journal reports. "Anytime your quarterback gets nicked like that, you're always concerned," Jackson said. "But I think the fact that he was able to go back in the game, that was a good sign. I feel comfortable and confident that he's going to be OK and that we'll have him."

Analysis: Taylor immediately ran to the sideline after an awkward landing on his left hand during Thursday's preseason game against Philadelphia. He only missed two drives and returned to finish out the first half, but he then spent the second half in the locker room receiving treatment on his hand/wrist. Initial X-rays came back negative and there should be another update available after Taylor undergoes further testing Friday. Regardless of the results, he's unlikely to play in the Browns' preseason…read more

Set for further testing Friday

X-rays on Taylor's left hand came back negative, but he will be sent for further testing Friday, Tom Withers of the Associated Press reports.

Analysis: That Taylor was able to re-enter Thursday's game after having his wrist bent back at the end of a scramble is encouraging, but the Browns will do their due diligence and send their starter in for further testing. Once those test results come back, Taylor's availability for Week 1 will come into focus. He's unlikely to play in the final week of the preseason even if he's healthy enough to do so.

Quiet in win

Taylor (hand) completed 11 of 16 passes for 65 yards and added five yards on the ground during Thursday's 5-0 victory over the Eagles.

Analysis: Taylor exited the game briefly after hurting his non-throwing hand, but showed some toughness in returning. He completed seven of eight passes after his return, but big plays were hard to come by. After a brief preseason-opening appearance during which he posted a perfect passer rating, Taylor has completed 65.2 percent of his passes over the past two weeks, but has averaged just 3.8 yards per attempt.

Returns to Thursday's game

Taylor (hand) has returned to Thursday's preseason contest against the Eagles.

Analysis: Taylor suffered an ugly-looking injury in the first quarter, but thankfully for the Browns he appears to be alright. The fact that the eighth-year quarterback is not seriously injured is relieving enough, but his ability to return to a preseason contest after only missing one drive says a lot about how Taylor's left hand must be feeling. It remains to be seen if lingering effects from the injury will hold Taylor out of practice during the coming week, but if he misses any time look for Baker…read more

Questionable to return to Thursday's contest

Taylor is questionable to return to Thursday's game against the Eagles with a left hand injury.

Analysis: Taylor's injury looked fairly gruesome on first appearance, so it would be surprising to see him return to a preseason contest. More information about Taylor's hand will continue to emerge, but in the meantime Baker Mayfield looks primed to take over the Browns first team offense.

Injures wrist against Eagles

Taylor landed awkwardly on his left wrist during Thursday's preseason game against the Eagles, Pat McManamon of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Taylor was rolling to his left, and after unloading a pass intended for Jarvis Landry, came down hard on his left wrist. His lower arm then bent awkwardly and he immediately retreated to the sideline. More information on the injury will surface in the near future, but it certainly did not look good at first glance. If Taylor is forced to miss time, 2018 No. 1 overall pick Baker Mayfield figures to lead the Browns offense moving forward.

Expected to play first

Coach Hue Jackson said Taylor and the other starters will play approximately half of Thursday's preseason game against Philadelphia, Nate Ulrich of the Akron Beacon Journal reports.

Analysis: Jackson doesn't plan to leave his starters in after halftime but didn't entirely rule out the possibility. Taylor completed nine of 12 passes for 121 yards and a touchdown over the first two weeks of the preseason, adding two carries for seven yards. He's done nothing to lose his job as the Week 1 starter.

Sees limited action Friday

Taylor completed four of seven pass attempts for 22 yards and ran once for five times in Friday's 19-17 preseason loss to the Bills.

Analysis: Meanwhile, No. 1 overall pick Baker Mayfield completed seven of 13 attempts for 75 yards. As intriguing as the notion of Mayfield overtaking Taylor in short order might be, coach Hue Jackson maintains that the Browns are committed to Taylor as their starter out of the gate this season. With that in mind, Taylor is in line to work with an interesting collection of pass-catchers, featuring wideouts Jarvis Landry and Josh Gordon (now that he's back with the team), as well as promising tight end…read more

Ready for more snaps

Browns head coach Hue Jackson said Taylor will play more than two drives in Friday's preseason game against the Bills, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

Analysis: Taylor was sharp on two drives in last week's preseason opener against the Giants, completing all five of his pass attempts for 99 yards and a touchdown. Baker Mayfield then handled the vast majority of playing time under center after the first quarter, throwing for 212 yards and a pair of scores. While Mayfield's professional debut was impressive, Jackson has been adamant that Taylor will be the team's Week 1 starter.

Viewed as starter

Coach Hue Jackson reiterated Wednesday that Taylor is considered the Browns' starting quarterback, Andrew Gribble of the team's official site reports.

Analysis: Though the Browns used the top overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft to select Baker Mayfield, the team has no plans to rush the rookie into a starting role. With that in mind, Jackson indicated that he doesn't envision Mayfield getting much work with the first-team offense during training camp. That said, Taylor's perch atop the depth chart is not entirely set in stone, with Pat McManamon of ESPN.com noting that the team wouldn't hold Mayfield back if he made a compelling preseason push to…read more

Browns head coach Hue Jackson still plans for Taylor to enter Week 1 as the starting quarterback, but Jackson did seem to acknowledge the possibility that No. 1 overall draft pick Baker Mayfield could make an unexpected push for the job, Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com reports. "We have a plan and I want to work that plan as much as we can,'' Jackson said. "Now, can a player supersede that? You never know. I haven't had that happen, but right now this team is going to be led by Tyrod Taylor.''

Analysis: Acquired from the Bills in exchange for a third-round draft pick, Taylor was named as the Browns' starting quarterback for the upcoming campaign shortly after the trade in mid-March, despite the universal expectation that Cleveland would select a quarterback at No. 1 overall. The team ultimately used that pick on the 23-year-old Mayfield, whose combination of collegiate experience and production is unmatched among recent quarterback prospects. The decision leaves Taylor in a more precarious…read more

Referencing Taylor, who the Browns recently acquired in a trade with the Bills, coach Hue Jackson confirmed that the 28-year-old is "going to be the starting quarterback (in 2018). There is no competition," Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: For now, Cody Kessler and Kevin Hogan remain on the Browns' roster, but it seems likely that the team will add another QB in April's draft, possibly with one of its two first-round picks. Taylor doesn't buy into the notion that he's simply a bridge QB, destined to to helm the offense while the Browns groom their next franchise QB, but that will be the perception if the team does indeed select a high-profile young signal-caller next month. For the foreseeable future, however, Taylor is in line…read more

Shuffling out of Buffalo

Taylor will be traded to the Browns in exchange for a third-round draft pick going to the Bills, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Adam Schefter is reporting the same deal. It looks like Taylor is on his way to Cleveland, where he'll be throwing to fellow Friday acquisition Jarvis Landry for what's certain to be a new-look team in 2018. It'll be interesting to see what the Browns do with the No. 1 and No. 4 overall picks with two major deals out of the way, though it's conceivable they could still draft a top QB and let him get up to speed slowly while Taylor runs the show. The Bills will get pick No. 65 in the draft and…read more

General manager Brandon Beane reiterated this week that the team has no plans to cut Taylor before he's due a roster bonus March 16, Chris Brown of the Bills' official site reports. "Tyrod is on our roster right now and that's the plan," said Beane. "We're just taking it day by day. We're trying to get better everywhere, so we're looking at every position including quarterback, but Tyrod did a lot of good things for us. So I'm not really worried about the (roster) bonus. I see him on our roster right now. Unless something changes he'll be here through that part."

Analysis: Earlier in the offseason, it seemed the veteran was as good as gone following an up-and-down season, highlighted by some surprise wins that featured some special plays by the mobile quarterback, with other games sprinkled in where he did little with the unexciting offense around him or his limitations as a passer were exposed. But the "Taylor's gone" tune has started to change lately, with one rational line of thinking saying the Bills will keep Taylor yet throw a young stud (the team has two…read more

Expected to stick with Buffalo

The Bills aren't planning on cutting Taylor (concussion) during the offseason, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Buffalo had considered getting rid of Taylor last offseason before he agreed to a restructured two-year contract, but that hardly gave the 28-year-old much job security heading into 2017. Another parting of ways seemed imminent after a healthy Taylor was benched in favor of rookie Nathan Peterman in the Week 11 game against the Chargers, though the veteran quickly recaptured the starting gig and helped lead the Bills to the postseason for the first time since 1999. Taylor's shortcomings as a…read more

Open to Buffalo return

Taylor (concussion) said he would like to remain the quarterback of the Bills, but he will not accept another pay cut to do so. "Nah, that's not really part of the plan right now," Taylor told The Buffalo News on Friday. "Definitely not part of my mindset. I've done that before (last year, when he accepted a $10-million salary reduction over two seasons). I don't think there's a need to do that again. That's definitely not part of my mindset."

Analysis: The big test of what the Bills aim to do will come in March, when Taylor will be due a $6 million roster bonus. Taylor says he hasn't spoken with the team since the Bills' final game of the season, a playoff loss at Jacksonville. He was a key part in taking the team to its first playoff appearance since the 1999 season, yet his limitations were also exposed at various points throughout the season. The Bills may be the NFL team with the most options for a starting quarterback next season, though…read more

Exits Sunday's game late in fourth quarter

Taylor (concussion) was able to walk off the field to the locker room under his own power after being knocked to the ground hard late in Sunday's 10-3 AFC wild-card loss to the Jaguars.

Analysis: Taylor, who is now in the NFL's concussion protocol, was replaced in the game by Nathan Peterman. Prior to his exit, Taylor had completed 17 of 37 passes for 134 yards, while adding seven carries for 27 yards.

Taylor completed 19 of 27 passes for 204 yards with one touchdown and no interceptions in Sunday's 22-16 win over the Dolphins. He also rushed six times for 35 yards.

Analysis: As customary, Taylor was cautious with the football and did just enough to keep the Bills moving in the right direction throughout the contest. He got matters off on the right foot by directing a seven-play, 72-yard scoring drive on the opening possession that he capped off with a nifty 26-yard touchdown pass to Nick O'Leary. Taylor subsequently led scoring marches of 11, nine, five and 10 plays, all which culminated in Stephen Hauschka field goals. The 28-year-old wrapped up the regular season…read more

Taylor completed 21 of 38 passes for 281 yards while rushing three times for 16 yards without a touchdown or turnover in Sunday's 37-16 loss to New England.

Analysis: Buffalo converted its first four third-down plays during an eight-minute first drive, but Taylor took a sack in the red zone on the fifth so his team had to settle for a field goal. T-Mobile completed a 46-yard pass to Deonte Thompson on the next possession, which ended in a turnover on downs. He finally threw a touchdown pass to Kelvin Benjamin just before halftime, but it was overturned by officials. Even with this setback, the Bills could still end their 18-year playoff drought next week, as…read more

Taylor (knee) completed 17 of 29 passes for 224 yards and a touchdown during Sunday's 24-16 win over Miami. He added 42 yards and a touchdown on six carries.

Analysis: Taylor did most of his damage in the closing minutes of the first half. After connecting with LeSean McCoy on a 16-yard touchdown, Taylor scrambled out of the pocket for a nine-yard score during the final seconds of the half. It's been a tumultuous season for Taylor, but he has a shot at leading Buffalo into the playoffs if he's able to top New England and Miami to close the season. While he looked good against Miami, he'll have his hands against New England next week. The Patriots held Taylor…read more

Drawing Week 15 start

Bills head coach Sean McDermott relayed Friday that Taylor (knee) will start at quarterback Sunday against the Dolphins, Chris Brown of the Bills' official site reports.

Analysis: Taylor was inactive for the Week 14 overtime win over the Colts, a game started by Nathan Peterman (who exited with a concussion) and finished by Joe Webb. The Bills' passing game has struggled to find consistency this season, but Taylor at least excels at avoiding turnovers and contributing with his rushing. His impact on the ground could be limited a bit more than normal coming off a knee injury, but Taylor's outlook in the passing game would be boosted by the presence of wideout Kelvin…read more

Taylor (knee) practiced again Thursday but coach Sean McDermott would not commit to him as a starter for Sunday's game against the Dolphins, Mike Rodak of ESPN.com reports. "We're working that direction. We just got to see. Obviously he's worked more this week than last week, so that's a step in the right direction," said McDermott. "I want to come out tomorrow and see how he does tomorrow."

Analysis: Fellow quarterback Nathan Peterman remains in concussion protocol and practiced again Thursday around the restrictions that get placed in such situations. The thinking is Taylor will be the guy this week, since McDermott has said all along he's the starter once fully ready to play, but owners should certainly wait for official confirmation following Friday's practice or ahead of Sunday's 1pm ET start time.

Puts forth full practice Wednesday

Taylor (knee) was a full participant in practice Wednesday.

Analysis: As head coach Sean McDermott predicted before the session, Taylor was able to take part in the majority of the drills during the Bills' first practice of the week, which should eliminate any concern about his availability for Sunday's game against the Dolphins. The Bills finished out the Week 14 overtime win over the Colts with their third-string quarterback (Joe Webb) running the offense after Taylor was made inactive shortly before the contest and fill-in starter Nathan Peterman exited early…read more

Will get most first-team reps Wednesday

Bills head coach Sean McDermott said Taylor (knee) will take part in most of the team's drills during Wednesday's practice and will start Sunday against the Dolphins if healthy.

Analysis: After being benched in favor of rookie Nathan Peterman in a Week 11 loss to the Chargers, Taylor was reinserted as starter for the following two contests. Taylor came out of the of the Dec. 3 loss to the Patriots with a knee injury, however, which ultimately resulted in him ceding starting duties to Peterman in the last weekend's victory over the Colts. Taylor's injury was never considered significant, and his participation in most of practice Wednesday likely means that he's trending toward…read more

Expects to return this week

Taylor (knee) said he will definitely return for Sunday's game against the Dolphins, while Bills head coach Sean McDermott said it's too early to make a declaration, Mike Rodak of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: While player and coach aren't quite in agreement, McDermott did say Taylor will be the starter whenever he's healthy enough to play. The Bills may be inclined to let Taylor play even if he isn't quite back to 100 percent, as backup quarterback Nathan Peterman had to be removed from Sunday's 13-7 win over the Colts after suffering a concussion. In the unlikely event neither Taylor nor Peterman is available, Joe Webb would get the start against Miami in Week 15.

Still the starter if healthy

Bills head coach Sean McDermott reiterated Monday that Taylor (knee) will still be the starting quarterback if he's healthy, Mike Rodak of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: With Taylor inactive and Nathan Peterman forced out by a concussion, jack-of-all-trades Joe Webb finished out Sunday's 13-7 overtime win over the Colts. It did seem Taylor was nearly able to play, potentially setting him up for a return in Week 15 against the Dolphins. He was a limited practice participant Wednesday and Thursday, with the Bills viewing him as a game-time decision (and ultimately ruling him out) ahead of Sunday's eventual snowy victory. The Bills' injury report will require…read more

Inactive Sunday

Taylor (knee) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Colts.

Analysis: As a result, Nathan Peterman will draw the start at QB for the Bills in Week 14, while Taylor will look for his knee to improve to the point that he's healthy enough to be in the mix for the assignment next weekend against the Dolphins.

Not expected to start Sunday

Nathan Peterman is expected to start Sunday against the Colts in place of Taylor (knee), per a source, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: Taylor hasn't been officially ruled out of Sunday's game, but it looks like he won't start even though he practiced on a limited basis Friday and is listed as questionable on the official injury report.

Headed for game-time call

Taylor (knee) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Colts.

Analysis: The final injury report was a mere formality, as head coach Sean McDermott already said Taylor would practice on a limited basis Friday and ultimately be a game-time decision ahead of Sunday's 1:00 p.m. start. Despite the highly favorable matchup, it will be tough to have faith in Taylor if he ends up playing, given that his mobility (which accounts for much of his value) almost certainly would be restricted. Rookie fifth-round pick Nathan Peterman will get the start if Taylor doesn't play.

Will be game-time decision

Bills head coach Sean McDermott said Taylor (knee) will be limited at practice Friday and will be a game-time decision for Sunday's matchup with the Colts.

Analysis: Taylor will almost certainly be listed as questionable when the official injury report comes out later Friday, as he was only able to manage two limited practices this week while recovering from the bruised left knee. The Buffalo passing game had already been fairly unproductive with Taylor running the show, making it difficult to be optimistic about the quarterback's fantasy prospects if he's able to play at less than full health. If Taylor fails to show the requisite improvement leading up to…read more

Taylor (knee) was limited to individual drills at practice Thursday, Mike Rodak of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Taylor's return to practice -- albeit in a limited fashion -- is a step in the right direction, but he's still managing his injury, with Jay Skurski of The Buffalo News relaying that Taylor sported a protective sleeve on his injured left knee Thursday. In the event that Taylor gains clearance to play Week 14 against the Colts, he'll draw a favorable matchup against the 3-9 Colts, who have allowed an NFL-worst 271.6 passing yards per game this season.

Returns to practice Thursday

Taylor (knee) was present for the start of the Bills' practice Thursday, Sal Capaccio of WGR Sports Radio 550 reports.

Analysis: The Bills will provide an update on the extent of Taylor's participation in practice after the session concludes, but his presence Thursday is nonetheless a positive sign after the quarterback was held out of Wednesday's practice. If Taylor is able to put in a limited practice or two this week without any major setbacks to his bruised left knee, he'll have a good shot at suiting up Sunday against the Colts.

Not practicing Wednesday

Taylor (knee) won't participate in practice Wednesday, Chris Brown of the Bills' official site reports.

Analysis: According to Brown, Bills head coach Sean McDermott said that the team would "take it one day at a time" with regard to which of its three quarterbacks would start Sunday against the Colts. If he's able to shake off the patella contusion in his left knee before the weekend, Taylor would receive the starting assignment, but his absence from the Bills' first practice of the week will leave Nathan Peterman and Joe Webb to run the offense Wednesday. McDermott didn't specify which of the two…read more

Will start if healthy

Bills head coach Sean McDermott said Monday that Taylor will remain the team's starting quarterback if he's healthy enough to play, adding that Taylor is day-to-day with a patella tendon contusion in his left knee, Jay Skurski of The Buffalo News reports.

Analysis: Taylor avoided major ligament damage but nonetheless may be dealing with significant pain. The decision to label him day-to-day doesn't mean much, as McDermott has used that terminology liberally all season, including with players that don't have any shot to make it back for the next game. Taylor completed nine of 18 passes for 65 yards, no touchdowns and an interception in Sunday's 23-3 loss to the Patriots, but he was much better the previous two weeks, and Nathan Peterman's five-interception…read more

Expects to be okay

Taylor (knee) told people close to him that he believes he avoided a major injury, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Per Albert Breer of The MMQB, Taylor initially got hurt on the first snap of Sunday's 23-3 loss to the Patriots, but he played through the injury until early in the fourth quarter, at which point he was carted off to the locker room. He was ineffective prior to the early exit, completing only nine of 18 passes for 65 yards, with no touchdowns and one interception. Taylor did add 32 yards on three carries, but he also took three sacks along the way. Nathan Peterman wasn't any better in mop-up…read more

Carted off field with knee injury

Taylor was forced out of Sunday's game against the Patriots with a knee injury.

Analysis: With Taylor sidelined for the remainder of Sunday's contest after being carted off the field in the fourth quarter, Nathan Peterman is in at QB for the Bills. Prior to his exit, Taylor had completed nine of 18 passes for 65 yards and a pick and ran three times for 32 yards.

Starting Week 13

Taylor will start Week 13 against the Patriots, The Buffalo News reports.

Analysis: This probably could've been assumed after Taylor led the Bills to a 16-10 win in Kansas City on Sunday. He completed 19 of 29 passes for 183 yards and a touchdown, adding nine carries for 27 yards in a turnover-free performance. Bills coach Sean McDermott wouldn't commit to Taylor beyond Week 13, but the veteran probably won't lose the job to Nathan Peterman unless he suffers a complete meltdown or Buffalo falls out of the playoff race. The Bills still have to play New England twice, but they…read more

Taylor completed 19 of 29 passes for 183 yards and a touchdown while rushing nine times for 27 yards in Sunday's 16-10 win over Kansas City.

Analysis: Taylor's steady hand under center was a welcome sight after last week's disastrous failure of the Nathan Peterman experiment. The veteran quarterback rolled out left and patiently held onto the ball until Zay Jones came uncovered in the end zone for an 11-yard touchdown late in the first quarter. Taylor's longest completion was a nearly intercepted, 33-yard pass to Charles Clay to set up a third-quarter field goal. The mobile quarterback isn't going to rack up gaudy passing totals, but he's a…read more

Named Week 12 starter

Bills head coach Sean McDermott named Taylor the team's starting quarterback for Sunday's game against the Chiefs.

Analysis: Though Taylor had turned in his worst outing of the season in a blowout loss to New Orleans in Week 10, it was still surprising when McDermott elected to bench the veteran last week in favor of untested rookie Nathan Peterman for a road matchup with the Chargers. The decision quickly proved to be ill advised, as Peterman threw five first-half interceptions before being replaced by Taylor, who completed 15 of 25 passes for 158 yards and a touchdown in relief. While Taylor will get the chance to…read more

Replaces Peterman after five picks

Bills coach Sean McDermott declined to commit to Taylor as the Week 12 starter when speaking to the media after Sunday's 54-24 loss to the Chargers, ESPN.com's Mike Rodak reports.

Analysis: Nathan Peterman made McDermott look bad, throwing five interceptions on 14 pass attempts before giving way to Taylor for the start of the second half. Taylor made things worse in the third quarter when he lost a fumble that was returned for a touchdown, but he bounced back strong in garbage time to finish 15-of-25 passing for 158 yards and a touchdown, adding four carries for 38 yards and another score. Common sense dictates he'll get the start Week 12 in Kansas City, but the Bills apparently…read more

Benched for Week 11

Bills head coach Sean McDermott announced Wednesday that Nathan Peterman would replace Taylor as the team's starting quarterback for Sunday's game against the Chargers.

Analysis: With the Bills dropping to 5-4 following back-to-back embarrassing losses to the Jets and Saints, McDermott has decided to shake things in an effort to preserve the team's narrow edge on the final wild-card spot in the AFC. Though Taylor's season-long numbers (10:3 TD:INT, 64 percent completion rate, 6.6 yards per attempt) haven't deviated much on a per-game basis from what he posted over 14 outings in 2016, the 28-year-old submitted his worst showing of the season in the Week 10 loss,…read more

Although Taylor struggled in Sunday's drubbing at the hands of the Saints, coach Sean McDermott insisted Taylor will remain the starting quarterback, Chris Brown of the Bills' official site reports. "Because I believe in Tyrod," said McDermott. "Tyrod is our starter. That's what I said (Sunday). I know what Tyrod has done and I also know what Nate has done. Tyrod is our starter."

Analysis: Taylor may not be an elite quarterback, but he's done enough good things this season -- not to mention his 10:3 touchdown to interception ratio -- with a questionable offense that he'll be given some leash. The Bills are also in the thick of the wild-card battle, so while switching to rookie Nathan Peterman might appease some portion of the fan base, it seems prudent to stick with the guy that's performed at least capably for three seasons. That said, if the Bills keep losing games and stop…read more

Taylor completed nine of 18 pass attempts for 56 yards and an interception Sunday against the Saints. He also gained 27 yards on three carries in the 47-10 loss.

Analysis: Taylor endured perhaps the roughest outing of his career in this one, managing a miserable 3.1 yards per attempt while posting the lowest yardage total of his career as a starter. He finished as the team's second-leading rusher on the day, but even that wasn't enough to amount to anything noteworthy from a fantasy perspective. Taylor came into Sunday on the back of three consecutive productive outings and will look to bounce back next week against the Chargers.

Generates over 300 yards total offense

Taylor completed 29 of 40 passes for 285 yards with two touchdowns and no interceptions in Thursday's 34-21 loss to the Jets. He also rushed six times for 35 yards and a touchdown and fumbled twice, losing one.

Analysis: Taylor's final line was a perfect illustration of how the same statistics can be considered ineffective from a real-world football perspective and a success from a fantasy point of view. The 28-year-old struggled to move the ball for the majority of the contest, as the Bills punted a total of six times, lost the ball on downs on another drive and also saw three more possessions end courtesy of lost fumbles. One of those miscues was committed by Taylor himself, as he lost the handle on the ball…read more