Bills Sign FB Mike Viti, Army

[BillsFann]

http://www.recordonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080428/SPORTS/804280343/-1/SPORTS

Positives: Has a thick, highly muscular frame (built more like a heavyweight wrestler) with minimal body fat (8.6%), very thick neck and chest, broad shoulders, flat back and large, strong hands...Has a tight waist and thick thighs and calves...Despite several injuries that would sideline others, he has never missed a game due to an injury...Excels in pass protection, keeping his head on a swivel with hands ready to reset and recoil with good force to rock the defender back...Physical lead blocker who can consistently widen rush lanes...Has a low center of gravity and great leg drive to clear space and push back oncoming second-level defenders trying to plug the gaps...Shows good pad level and power as a short-yardage runner...Effective outlet receiver who gets into his short-area patterns nicely, but does not have the speed to be a downfield threat...Consistently breaks tackles and shows good explosion on contact attacking the defender when blocking in-line...Has very good field vision, and is alert to stunts and games...Shows good balance and body lean squeezing through tight areas...Has reliable hands catching out of the backfield and makes good body adjustments to sustain as a blocker...Plays with fiery emotion and is the team's hardest worker in the training room...Stays low to the ground to root out defenders on pulls and traps...Not sudden, but stays within his patterns running short area routes...Has natural hands, doing a good job of catching the ball away from his frame...Generates explosive hip roll to generate pop on contact coming out of his stance and into the rush lanes...Good position blocker who anchors well and is hard to push back into the pocket in pass protection.

Negatives: Has not missed a game due to injury, but has a history of knee problems (meniscus tears)...Lacks the second gear to pull away from defenders after the catch and has marginal initial quickness (can lose sight of edge rushers when he is slow to get into position)...Strictly a straight-line runner, with no hip shake or moves to separate...Lacks the speed to stretch the field vertically...Despite punishing blocking skills, he will get a bit impatient and lunge at defenders rather than wait for the action to come to him, and lacks the recovery skills to get back into position when this happens.

Compares To: MIKE KARNEY-New Orleans...While West Virginia's Owen Schmitt is regarded as the draft's top fullback, Viti can rival the Mountaineer as the best blocker in this draft. Viti has brute strength that made one scout describe his physique as "having muscles coming out of his muscles." He is a capable short-area route runner, but will never win a foot race, even with a second-level defender. With West Point allowing their cadets to pursue a professional career immediately, Viti could be a steal as a free-agent pickup.

[Griff]

sounds like a freakin' beast.

[buffalo G]

Wow,
Barnes
Evans
Viti

FB depth chart......guess the bills were telling the truth about using one.

[speedracer216]

Usa Usa Usa

[BronxBomber21]

WoW sounds like a "player" i wouldn't be shocked if he becames a starter after the preseason.

[davejr51179]

Really sounds like a good pick. Hope he is a good as he sounds

[sjhbillsfan]

Ok, does this means if he gets cut in camp he goes to Bagdad instead of Orchard Park?

[Flutieisaspecialman]

Ok, does this means if he gets cut in camp he goes to Bagdad instead of Orchard Park?


No no no. You have it all wrong. This is the military we are talking about here. They will let him make the team (perhaps even a starting position), think his wildest dreams have come true, then they will cut him orders for Iraq.

That is the Army way. ;)

[jabaldi]

This guy is jacked

[StoneRaizer]

A bulldozer for a FB, I like him already.

[psubills62]

I like this. I'd much rather get this guy than use a pick on Schmitt. Well done, Buffalo.

[Renegade23]

I like this. I'd much rather get this guy than use a pick on Schmitt. Well done, Buffalo.

Again, well put. It's funny that some of us are so quick to use a draft pick on a FB - I've seen as high as a 3rd rounder in some mocks to go get Schmitt. This guy fits the job description - the garbage man that makes the hole nice and wide for Marshawn.

[psubills62]

Again, well put. It's funny that some of us are so quick to use a draft pick on a FB - I've seen as high as a 3rd rounder in some mocks to go get Schmitt. This guy fits the job description - the garbage man that makes the hole nice and wide for Marshawn.

I'll admit, I had been one of those guys. A couple weeks before the draft started, I changed it to Best FB Available in the 6th round. But hey, that's why I'm doing mechanical engineering and not scouting football, and the guys in the Buffalo War room are.

[SupeR flAsh ASH]

This is no garbage man. he is a highly intelligent West Point cadet and former Berwick Bulldawg.

Congratulations,
Mike Viti
:thumbsup

[billsdad]

Don't get too excited-"marginal initial quickness".Is Marshawn,who is not used to running behind a blocker,going to want to wait for a slow one ? Hopefully he's quicker than stated .

[BongOOO]

LOVE this pick up. Really hope he manages to make the most of it and stick.

[REM]

Don't get too excited-"marginal initial quickness".Is Marshawn,who is not used to running behind a blocker,going to want to wait for a slow one ? Hopefully he's quicker than stated .

I thought that Lynch did a good job last year running behind his blockers, I don't think it will be a problem (keep in mind that the FB has a lead start).

[RockesterInDC]

Don't get too excited-"marginal initial quickness".Is Marshawn,who is not used to running behind a blocker,going to want to wait for a slow one ? Hopefully he's quicker than stated .

He doesn't need to lead lynch all the way down field, just hit the first defender he comes in contact with and ring his bell. Especially in short yardage situations a FB comes in clutch.

[BongOOO]

Don't get too excited-"marginal initial quickness".Is Marshawn,who is not used to running behind a blocker,going to want to wait for a slow one ? Hopefully he's quicker than stated .

My guess is that if Mike does a good job bulldozing the hole for Marshawn, Marshawn will be okay with waiting. Otherwise, he won't.

[McMnNY]

Great pickup! I am excited to have a strong fullback paving the way for Marshawn!

[StoneRaizer]

FBs don't need to be quick, they just need to bust open holes and knock LBs on their behinds. Based on this guy's build, he can do exactly that.

Welcome to Buffalo Mike!

[StoneRaizer]

Interview with Mike Viti, posted September 1, 2007:

http://army.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=708697

This guy's built like a freakin' Army tank.

http://vmedia.rivals.com/uploads/1162/F236778.JPG

http://vmedia.rivals.com/uploads/1162/F236321.JPG

http://vmedia.rivals.com/uploads/1162/F311516.JPG

[bigskinny]

No no no. You have it all wrong. This is the military we are talking about here. They will let him make the team (perhaps even a starting position), think his wildest dreams have come true, then they will cut him orders for Iraq.

That is the Army way. ;)

do some research

[marshawnisabeast]

I live by army so i saw that in the paper, met this guy, he is a leader, he does not mess around, he is huge in person
also in the paper before the draft it said they interviewed him

[StoneRaizer]

Info on how the Bills chose him:

"A Regimental Commander within the U.S. Corps of Cadets, Viti spent much of Sunday in New York City at a wreath-laying ceremony with the remainder of his regiment. The Black Knights’ former bruising fullback was tending to laundry and running some other errands with his parents upon his return to West Point. As they drove to get something to eat, Viti’s cell phone rang.

“We were driving to go eat and Buffalo had given me a call. It was early in the seventh round,” Viti explains. “They said, ‘We might take you with our next pick.’ I took it for what it was worth. They called again right before their pick and said, “We’re either going to take you or another player. But if we don’t take you, we want to sign you as a free agent. We really want you and want you to know that.’ Right after the draft was over they called again and they laid it out. They said, ‘You’re the guy we want and you’re the only rookie fullback we’re going to bring in (to mini camp).’

“With that, I thought it was a good situation. It seems like they came after me pretty aggressively. They’ve been in contact with me the last few weeks. I feel pretty good about it. That’s part of what goes into the free-agent process. You try to assess what team you see yourself fitting into best.”

With that, Viti agreed to terms with the Bills on a free agent contract."

http://www.goarmysports.com/ViewArticle.dbml?SPSID=48071&SPID=4587&DB_OEM_ID=11100&ATCLID=1449276


Sounds like OBD is really high on this kid.

[marshawnisabeast]

They signed him to a 2 year deal, i think he might make the team, al he really does is block, he is athletic to, he did good with no help

[BillsFann]

I hereby declare this man-beast The Buffalo Soldier!

[PozFan51]

After Schmitt went this is the guy I wanted(started a thread on him). Man this is good. This guy is a beast and I also like the fact he played for ARMY. HOOORRRAHHHHH!!!!!

[go5bills]

Sounds like a bowling ball - 5'9" 240 lbs !!!

Can't wait to see Marshawn running behind any fullback

[go5bills]

great nickname....I like it

[Cheesus]

link already posted, whoops.

[BuffaloBillsHeart]

You've got to love this pickup, especially because the man is from the Army, which I respect more than almost anything. He sounds like a toughnosed, evilminded and hardcore team player, who could find a role as a FB, though he's going to have to compete Darian Barnes and Jonathan Evans for that spot. Way to go OBD, this is the kind of player I want to see play every sunday for the proud Buffalo Bills nation.

[illinibill]

what a great pickup this guy looks as strong as an ox, and he can be a leader too! He seriously is going to knock LBs going after marshawn on their ***

[MetaTate]

I've been been viewing these boards for over 2 years, but haven't felt obligated to post anything until i saw this. I played with Viti since midget football as a nine year old and all the way until his graduation. He has incredible work ethic, pushes everyone on team to be better, and is just overall a good guy. His injury happened in high school, and he missed one game if i remember correctly. This is the kind of guy any nfl team needs.

[psubills62]

I've been been viewing these boards for over 2 years, but haven't felt obligated to post anything until i saw this. I played with Viti since midget football as a nine year old and all the way until his graduation. He has incredible work ethic, pushes everyone on team to be better, and is just overall a good guy. His injury happened in high school, and he missed one game if i remember correctly. This is the kind of guy any nfl team needs.

Good to hear from you. I know I'm excited to have the guy on our team, and I'd bet Lynch is too.

[TEtoLeeTD]

i guarante xavier omon was drafted to move to FB. he is listed as a FB prospect by most sources. he was a big hb at a small school but he doesnt have the speed to be a hb in the nfl.

[psubills62]

i guarante xavier omon was drafted to move to FB. he is listed as a FB prospect by most sources. he was a big hb at a small school but he doesnt have the speed to be a hb in the nfl.

I seriously doubt Omon was drafted to be a FB. Considering 1) Buffalo likes to have 4 RB's on the roster, if not in camp, 2) Viti was told he'd be the only rookie FB in camp, 3) Barnes and Viti are perfectly capable and we don't need 3 FB's.

Omon might not have the speed to break 80 yard runs every game, but he is quick and elusive for such a big back. He's only a decent blocker - why convert him when you've got three guys in camp whose main focus is blocking?

[Thurmanator34]

I feel better about not drafting Schmitt now that Viti will be in camp. Schmitt may have wanted to carry the ball too much. Viti will be more than happy to block only.... maybe get 10 carries on the year.

[Marshawn-2-the-housee]

cool hope he does well and can be our starter

[KcoxBillsfan]

I hereby declare this man-beast The Buffalo Soldier!

I like it.

[TEtoLeeTD]

I seriously doubt Omon was drafted to be a FB. Considering 1) Buffalo likes to have 4 RB's on the roster, if not in camp, 2) Viti was told he'd be the only rookie FB in camp, 3) Barnes and Viti are perfectly capable and we don't need 3 FB's.

Omon might not have the speed to break 80 yard runs every game, but he is quick and elusive for such a big back. He's only a decent blocker - why convert him when you've got three guys in camp whose main focus is blocking?

he will most likely be converted to fb.... that is his best shot to make it in the nfl. the coaches can teach him how to block so that is not an issue. they will teach him proper technique.

im not saying they wont try him at hb first, but i think he will be moved to fb in the nfl.

and viti wasnt even drafted so he is not the automatic solution. if he was that good he would be drafted.im not saying that he wont be good but you need to realize that he wasnt even drafted so dont just hand him the starting fb job already.

[Oblivion88]

That's fine they picked up a FB. But why didn't they draft Owen Schmitt? Doesn't make too much sense to me but Viti seems alright.....

[psubills62]

he will most likely be converted to fb.... that is his best shot to make it in the nfl. the coaches can teach him how to block so that is not an issue. they will teach him proper technique.

im not saying they wont try him at hb first, but i think he will be moved to fb in the nfl.

and viti wasnt even drafted so he is not the automatic solution. if he was that good he would be drafted.im not saying that he wont be good but you need to realize that he wasnt even drafted so dont just hand him the starting fb job already.

A FB doesn't have to be drafted. The highest-rated FB in the draft went in what, the end of the 5th round? I'm pretty sure only two or three FB's were drafted in all 7 rounds. I'd rather have a guy who already knows what he's doing than a guy who has to be taught. Besides, if you read the report it said he was just about even with Schmitt in terms of blocking.

I still think Omon will be our 3rd RB this year. He might not have blazing speed, but he has good instincts and uses holes very well.

[pablopbb]

A FB doesn't have to be drafted. The highest-rated FB in the draft went in what, the end of the 5th round? I'm pretty sure only two or three FB's were drafted in all 7 rounds. I'd rather have a guy who already knows what he's doing than a guy who has to be taught. Besides, if you read the report it said he was just about even with Schmitt in terms of blocking.

I still think Omon will be our 3rd RB this year. He might not have blazing speed, but he has good instincts and uses holes very well.

To further illustrate your point, look at the 2 FBs aleady on the Bills depth chart: neither was drafted!

[psubills62]

To further illustrate your point, look at the 2 FBs aleady on the Bills depth chart: neither was drafted!

I did not realize that - thanks!

[Bills pwn]

im just goona lay this out there but am i the only one really excited about mike viti i really think he could be a beast for us

[TEtoLeeTD]

A FB doesn't have to be drafted. The highest-rated FB in the draft went in what, the end of the 5th round? I'm pretty sure only two or three FB's were drafted in all 7 rounds. I'd rather have a guy who already knows what he's doing than a guy who has to be taught. Besides, if you read the report it said he was just about even with Schmitt in terms of blocking.

I still think Omon will be our 3rd RB this year. He might not have blazing speed, but he has good instincts and uses holes very well.

Schmitt is not even that good of a blocker so the fact that viti is almost as good doesnt impress me at all. schmitt is an overrated prospect because of his athletic ability for the position, running ability and catching ability. not all to great as a blocker. and he didnt play in a pro style offense, thus making his transition all the more difficult.

[Canadian kid]

A FB doesn't have to be drafted. The highest-rated FB in the draft went in what, the end of the 5th round? I'm pretty sure only two or three FB's were drafted in all 7 rounds. I'd rather have a guy who already knows what he's doing than a guy who has to be taught. Besides, if you read the report it said he was just about even with Schmitt in terms of blocking.

I still think Omon will be our 3rd RB this year. He might not have blazing speed, but he has good instincts and uses holes very well.

I think you are very right. I think we could even see a two back set near the goal line that consists of Marshawn and Omon. Omon could step in more of a FB role or take a blizter or even take the handoff himself..after all the dude has a nose for the endzone like no one else on our team! He's a MACHINE!

[psubills62]

Schmitt is not even that good of a blocker so the fact that viti is almost as good doesnt impress me at all. schmitt is an overrated prospect because of his athletic ability for the position, running ability and catching ability. not all to great as a blocker. and he didnt play in a pro style offense, thus making his transition all the more difficult.

Haha, whatever you say...

http://www.nfldraftcountdown.com/scoutingreports/fb/owenschmitt.html

"Strengths:
Has good size and a solid frame...Really tough, strong and powerful...Outstanding blocker...Runs hard and is a load to bring down..Has good hands and runs decent routes...Effective in short yardage situations..Hard worker and a true team player."

By all means, find me a scouting report saying that he's not good at blocking. I'm not talking about Schmitt's athletic ability or what offense he played in, I'm talking about how he blocks. And apparently, he's a pretty good blocker.

[psubills62]

I think you are very right. I think we could even see a two back set near the goal line that consists of Marshawn and Omon. Omon could step in more of a FB role or take a blizter or even take the handoff himself..after all the dude has a nose for the endzone like no one else on our team! He's a MACHINE!

Wouldn't mind seeing that at all. In fact, he could definitely take over as the big, short-yardage runner. I believe the Bills have a plan for him, even if it's a year or two from now.

[whotom]

"Viti" is the Latin word for viscious.

Veni, Vidi, Viti. (I came, I saw, I pummeled.)

[colinb78]

have fun trying to get passed that Tedy :lol:

[Billsboy]

Well there's the FB everyone here wanted. He should a good.

[BuFFbEASTmODE23]

[QUOTE=StoneRaizer;864766]Interview with Mike Viti, posted September 1, 2007:

http://army.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=708697


Fans have watched Viti transform himself from a pure blocking back, to a diverse offensive weapon, but when Mike Viti explains what he enjoys most about the position, it says much more than how he likes to play, it tells the story of what a selfless player he is. "Without a doubt, pancaking someone. Running a guy over, that's only one guy that I am taking out. If I pancake somebody, that involves another one of my teammates carrying the ball behind me, so a couple of more guys are involved. I take a lot of pride in being able to do that."

As Army fans get ready to watch Viti lead his team on to the field at Akron, he has only one request of them.

"Bring the 12th man, and bring it hard."

[Mr. Redzone]

He's basically Owen Schmitt minus the cost and hype because he played for a school that isn't as nationally hyped and is just now allowing players to pursue professional careers that aren't military related.

[illinibill]

man I mean look at this guy, I don't think anyone would want to mess with him. in short yardage as a surprise we could hand it to him up the middle and he lowers his head and blows through everybody

[thelaststraw311]

http://www.recordonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080428/SPORTS/804280343/-1/SPORTS

Positives: Has a thick, highly muscular frame (built more like a heavyweight wrestler) with minimal body fat (8.6%), very thick neck and chest, broad shoulders, flat back and large, strong hands...Has a tight waist and thick thighs and calves...Despite several injuries that would sideline others, he has never missed a game due to an injury...Excels in pass protection, keeping his head on a swivel with hands ready to reset and recoil with good force to rock the defender back...Physical lead blocker who can consistently widen rush lanes...Has a low center of gravity and great leg drive to clear space and push back oncoming second-level defenders trying to plug the gaps...Shows good pad level and power as a short-yardage runner...Effective outlet receiver who gets into his short-area patterns nicely, but does not have the speed to be a downfield threat...Consistently breaks tackles and shows good explosion on contact attacking the defender when blocking in-line...Has very good field vision, and is alert to stunts and games...Shows good balance and body lean squeezing through tight areas...Has reliable hands catching out of the backfield and makes good body adjustments to sustain as a blocker...Plays with fiery emotion and is the team's hardest worker in the training room...Stays low to the ground to root out defenders on pulls and traps...Not sudden, but stays within his patterns running short area routes...Has natural hands, doing a good job of catching the ball away from his frame...Generates explosive hip roll to generate pop on contact coming out of his stance and into the rush lanes...Good position blocker who anchors well and is hard to push back into the pocket in pass protection.

Negatives: Has not missed a game due to injury, but has a history of knee problems (meniscus tears)...Lacks the second gear to pull away from defenders after the catch and has marginal initial quickness (can lose sight of edge rushers when he is slow to get into position)...Strictly a straight-line runner, with no hip shake or moves to separate...Lacks the speed to stretch the field vertically...Despite punishing blocking skills, he will get a bit impatient and lunge at defenders rather than wait for the action to come to him, and lacks the recovery skills to get back into position when this happens.

Compares To: MIKE KARNEY-New Orleans...While West Virginia's Owen Schmitt is regarded as the draft's top fullback, Viti can rival the Mountaineer as the best blocker in this draft. Viti has brute strength that made one scout describe his physique as "having muscles coming out of his muscles." He is a capable short-area route runner, but will never win a foot race, even with a second-level defender. With West Point allowing their cadets to pursue a professional career immediately, Viti could be a steal as a free-agent pickup.

per goarmysports.com...

Serves as “heart and soul” of Army’s offensive unit ... one of the strongest players on Army’s roster ... capable of bench-pressing an Army-record 470 pounds

[BILLSfanFROM day1-?]

this could turn out to be really great. he sounds like a machine

[illinibill]

holy crap 470 pounds on a bench press?!
Is this guy even human?

[Rick James]

this could turn out to be really great. he sounds like a machine

He doesn't just sound like a machine, he is one.

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii104/twj008/MikeVitivsRI.jpg

[bilzfancy]

I'm not gonna knock Schmitt, but who would you think would be a better blocker, someone who is 6-4 and 240 or someone who is 5-9 and 240? Who will have the better leverage and lower center of gravity? Seeing this kid play, I'll go out on a limb and say he will start in front of Marshawn come Sept.

[marshawnisabeast]

I was on his bandwagon before the draft, i had him picked by the bills in my mock, i still do. I hope he makes the team nice guy, strong, physical, great blocker

[AirBuffalo]

When I met Gash a few years ago I thought I was with The Hulk. The guy was simply amazing and was extremely comfortable with his role. "Don't ask me to do anything fancy, don't worry about my numbers - just ask me to make holes and protect my QB". When I read this kid can BLOCK as well as open up lanes, I immediately thought, WOW !!!!! Maybe. Buffalo's own "Hulk".

[MetaTate]

he won every weight lifting competetion among high schoolers in our area. He was also extremely muscular for his age as a 10 yr old. No one wanted to mess with him in peewee lol.

[Dylanme8]

sounds like the beast we need i hope he pans out but playing at army I'm sure helped his blocking skills

[FootballIQ]

Really sounds like a good pick. Hope he is a good as he sounds

Ever wonder how someone so "great" went undrafted?

[bilzfancy]

Ever wonder how someone so "great" went undrafted?

see, Jason Peters, Pat Williams, Tony Romo, just to name a few.

[FootballIQ]

see, Jason Peters, Pat Williams, Tony Romo, just to name a few.

Sure, from time to time it happens but for every Peters, Williams & Romo there are thousands of Martin Nances....or did you forget him?

[bilzfancy]

Sure, from time to time it happens but for every Peters, Williams & Romo there are thousands of Martin Nances....or did you forget him?

Understood, its a long shot of course, but there are diamonds in the rough to be found, this kid may be one.

[BillsFann]

Almost all fullbacks that are big-time in today's NFL were undrafted. That is a position where a UDFA can come in, start and not be looked upon as a "lucky" pick.

[StoneRaizer]

Exactly, people don't draft fullbacks any more because they can get them as undrafted FAs. There isn't as big of a demand for lead blockers out of the backfield as say QBs, RBs, WRs, DEs, LBs and CBs.

[Luka_GoBills]

3rd and 1, here comes Viti and Omon. Seriously, defenses better tighten those chin straps.

[BronxBomber21]

Coming in to last year, Army's biggest blocking weapon was at the fullback position. Mike Viti became known for his vicious blocks, leveling opposing linemen and linebackers as he opened up holes for the likes of Carlton Jones and Scott Wesley. Though his presence was often "felt" by opposing defenses, he was not known for carrying the ball.

WoW putting lineman on there back, theres no way we cant score at the goalline now. Will call out JUMBO package and send out Viti and Omon and Lynch.

[marshawnisabeast]

He was the best or most exciting player on ARMY, When i met him he almost knocked me over with howm big he looked and how indimidating

[MetaTate]

he has knocked me over :(

[GottaBillieve]

Cant run or Catch worth a ****. But he'll put a LB or DE on his @$$... Thats all we needed! Thank You OBD! Welcome to Buffalo Viti!

[beeve17]

LOVE this pick up. Really hope he manages to make the most of it and stick.

FB's don't need quickcness, I think they're referring to him carrying the ball. we dont give the fb many touches passing or running, they just block for us.

Just think about it, you have linemen slower than fb's, FB's just try to open holes past the line or before.

Good that he's the best blocker in the draft, that's what we need, not a blocking TE.

[GottaBillieve]

Best undrafted signing we made... This guy will end up getting a good amount of PT...

[BongOOO]

FB's don't need quickcness, I think they're referring to him carrying the ball. we dont give the fb many touches passing or running, they just block for us.

Just think about it, you have linemen slower than fb's, FB's just try to open holes past the line or before.

Good that he's the best blocker in the draft, that's what we need, not a blocking TE.

Not sure why you quoted me then said this. I think you meant to quote somebody else. I agree with what you said except that it can help for fullbacks to have quickness. They don't need great speed, but it can help if they can get off the snap quickly to get to their block quicker.

But yes, I am a big Viti supporter, and really hope he is our fullback.

[illinibill]

I think this guy will be our starting fullback. I definitely see plays where he will completely ruin the opposing defense. I mean when you have someone thats 5'9 240 pounds and almost solid muscle coming straight for you in a straight line I don't see how he's not going to bore a hole I'm sure he could even go toe to toe with Urlacher! I don't know why but I'm really excited about this guy.

[rich15431]

Again, well put. It's funny that some of us are so quick to use a draft pick on a FB - I've seen as high as a 3rd rounder in some mocks to go get Schmitt. This guy fits the job description - the garbage man that makes the hole nice and wide for Marshawn.

I hope Mike Viti is the man. It makes for a great story. Making the team is not realistic though. It will be very hard for him to do.

[Tates]

He bench presses 470 lbs - we did not draft him to run deep post patterns - he needs to level linebackers and safeties

[Lirdoco]

Info on how the Bills chose him:

"A Regimental Commander within the U.S. Corps of Cadets, Viti spent much of Sunday in New York City at a wreath-laying ceremony with the remainder of his regiment. The Black Knights’ former bruising fullback was tending to laundry and running some other errands with his parents upon his return to West Point. As they drove to get something to eat, Viti’s cell phone rang.

“We were driving to go eat and Buffalo had given me a call. It was early in the seventh round,” Viti explains. “They said, ‘We might take you with our next pick.’ I took it for what it was worth. They called again right before their pick and said, “We’re either going to take you or another player. But if we don’t take you, we want to sign you as a free agent. We really want you and want you to know that.’ Right after the draft was over they called again and they laid it out. They said, ‘You’re the guy we want and you’re the only rookie fullback we’re going to bring in (to mini camp).’

“With that, I thought it was a good situation. It seems like they came after me pretty aggressively. They’ve been in contact with me the last few weeks. I feel pretty good about it. That’s part of what goes into the free-agent process. You try to assess what team you see yourself fitting into best.”

With that, Viti agreed to terms with the Bills on a free agent contract."

http://www.goarmysports.com/ViewArticle.dbml?SPSID=48071&SPID=4587&DB_OEM_ID=11100&ATCLID=1449276


Sounds like OBD is really high on this kid.

Thanks for posting this, Grea move by Buffalo taking Bell, Johnson and Cox and add an extra 7th with this guy

[illinibill]

I hope Mike Viti is the man. It makes for a great story. Making the team is not realistic though. It will be very hard for him to do.

I think he will easily. All of our other FBs are pretty much undrafted just like him.
He has no other rookie FBs competing with him for the spot.

[psubills62]

Ever wonder how someone so "great" went undrafted?

Um, you realize we're talking about a fullback, right? It's not like people trade up in the first round to get one. That's like saying "ever wonder how such a great punter went undrafted?" These things happen because maybe 2 punters are drafted each year, and most of them are 7th round fliers. So tell me, how many FB's were drafted this year? That's what I thought.

[acemanbillsfan]

has anyone found a video on this guy? ive been lookin but to no avail. i really wanna see him in action

[USMA08]

When I saw that Mike Viti had been drafted by the Bills, it seriously made my night. I had been putting off registering for the boards for a while. But when I saw that, I had to post something on the man who inspired the creation of the VITI STRONG shirt that has been selling in the cadet bookstore here at west point.
I have personally watched Mike for the past 4 years. Mike is a MAN. There is no other way to say it. The "muscles on top of muscles" is an apt description. I had a class with him and I actually thought if he accidentally flexed he may rip his uniform. I forget which game it was--I believe it was the Notre Dame game a few years ago--he took a huge hit. As the trainers tried to help him up, he threw them off, and staggered off the sidelines in a complete rage. The sidelines parted like the red sea for him.
Our need of a fullback is filled, ladies and gentlemen.
He has had knee problems the past few years, but I guarentee that he will not go down without a fight.
I am proud to be his classmate (as well as Caleb Campbell). The past few days have made up for not beating navy the past four years since I've been at the academy.
I'm not going to lie, I really hope he makes the team.

Go Army and Go BILLS!

[Dtrain22]

he will most likely be converted to fb.... that is his best shot to make it in the nfl. the coaches can teach him how to block so that is not an issue. they will teach him proper technique.

im not saying they wont try him at hb first, but i think he will be moved to fb in the nfl.

and viti wasnt even drafted so he is not the automatic solution. if he was that good he would be drafted.im not saying that he wont be good but you need to realize that he wasnt even drafted so dont just hand him the starting fb job already.

Do you fart in church and ruin that too??

[BronxBomber21]

If you guys want to see some pancakes from Mike Viti go to youtube and type in army football he's a beast.

[baltimorebillsfan]

No no no. You have it all wrong. This is the military we are talking about here. They will let him make the team (perhaps even a starting position), think his wildest dreams have come true, then they will cut him orders for Iraq.

That is the Army way. ;)
If you make a team from one of the military academies they release you from contract that you signed with the them. I believe that is how it works.

[pablopbb]

If you make a team from one of the military academies they release you from contract that you signed with the them. I believe that is how it works.

The link listed on the 2nd page of posts has the specifics of the program.

Again, at:
http://www.goarmysports.com/ViewArticle.dbml?SPSID=48071&SPID=4587&DB_OEM_ID=11100&ATCLID=1449276
"Campbell and Viti will be participating in the U.S. Army’s Alternative Service Option program. Under guidelines of the program, both players will be allowed to play football with their respective professional organizations while assigned to recruiting stations for two years as long as they remain under contract. Should they retain professional contracts following two years, they will be offered the option of “buying out” the remaining three years of their active-duty commitment in exchange for six years in the U.S. Army Reserves. Campbell and Viti will join baseball standouts Nick Hill and Milan Dinga, as well as former Army hockey goalie Brad Roberts as recent West Point graduates currently enrolled in the program"

[bhockey1321]

so if he doesn't remain under contract that rule doesn't pertain?

[baskets]

Ever wonder how someone so "great" went undrafted?

1. fullback
2. west point not exactly a football powerhouse
3. under the radar

jason peters, tony romo, willie parker, priest holmes, kurt warner...

[Nomad]

I used to live in a town called Mocanaqua PA, this town is about 15 min from Berwick PA where Mike Viti Played for the Bulldogs (one of the most successful high school football programs in the state) I saw this kid play in high school and he is a freakin MONSTER! I remember saying to myself years ago that he was going to be a force in the NFL someday. My favorite thing about Mike is that even when he is hurt, he does not seem to feel pain and if he does he is energized by it. Looks like we have another beast to enhance the beast mode. :gobills::billsflag:

[Billsboy]

Viti sounds like a beast. He's definitely going to be our FB and by all accounts he sounds like a steal!

[Murdoc]

Go to 2:05 and watch Viti (33) destroy someone....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FQt8b9NebFQ

[FootballIQ]

I think this guy will be our starting fullback. I definitely see plays where he will completely ruin the opposing defense. I mean when you have someone thats 5'9 240 pounds and almost solid muscle coming straight for you in a straight line I don't see how he's not going to bore a hole I'm sure he could even go toe to toe with Urlacher! I don't know why but I'm really excited about this guy.

Are you the same guy who also told us that Martin Nance would be a starting WR?

[Buffalo AL]

The next Sam Gash!

[Feeling On Youboty]

Hope he turns out to be a very good player so we can be done with the FB postion for the next 5-10 years.

[steckmeister03]

If you make a team from one of the military academies they release you from contract that you signed with the them. I believe that is how it works.

the conditions are if you are drafted or sign as a RFA, you must remain an active teamate for 2 years, and then your 5 year active duty contract is released... I'm guessing that may have had something to do with the fact that we signed Viti for 2 years...

The Army views players like Viti as serving their country better playing football... in the offseason Viti will be required to become a recruiter for a certain amount of time... the Army thinks that a professional football player will be able to better recruit young men than say a normal soldier sent home because of an injury.

[BongOOO]

I'm not going to lie, I really hope he makes the team.

Go Army and Go BILLS!

Me too, USMA08, me too!!!


Go Army and Go BILLS and BEAT NAVY

[illinibill]

Go to 2:05 and watch Viti (33) destroy someone....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FQt8b9NebFQ

WHOA! Never get on this guy's badside.

[sadsack]

Don't get too excited-"marginal initial quickness".Is Marshawn,who is not used to running behind a blocker,going to want to wait for a slow one ? Hopefully he's quicker than stated .

think goal line or 4th and short.....

remember all those 4th downs New England went for and gained on us when they were up 103-10? (or something like that) time to turn the tables and cram it down their throat like the B1tches they are

too bad we didn't get Zbikowski as well, to literally knock Brady out too
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dkFh4NcaA5M

[K2 Gunner]

I like this signing

[bleon28]

No no no. You have it all wrong. This is the military we are talking about here. They will let him make the team (perhaps even a starting position), think his wildest dreams have come true, then they will cut him orders for Iraq.

That is the Army way. ;)

WRONG...new rule...he has to work as an army recruiter and put in some time in the reserves that will satisfy his commitment to the army

[Bruce Smith Eats Ya QB]

will crush the 1st and 2nd level defenders....... LYNCH can go 5 yards un touched...... LB'S we'll get snapped like chicken bones.....

[Grizzly]

I watched this guy play in highschool. He played FB/LB in highschool. He actually made a hit in a game that cracked his helmet. He came to the sidelines with a daze in his eyes, blood trickling down his forhead and a helmet cracked. Now thats IMPACT. He is a beast. Every thing he goes after he seems to get. I think if he wants this bad enough, he will not only make the team, but start.. The bills got a steal here.

[Nomad]

I watched this guy play in highschool. He played FB/LB in highschool. He actually made a hit in a game that cracked his helmet. He came to the sidelines with a daze in his eyes, blood trickling down his forhead and a helmet cracked. Now thats IMPACT. He is a beast. Every thing he goes after he seems to get. I think if he wants this bad enough, he will not only make the team, but start.. The bills got a steal here.

My uncle was at that game...he talked about it for about a year! When I heard we picked him up I was happier than when I heard we got Stroud! Mike Viti will make the wall of fame someday, I feel it.

[MassBillzPhreak]

If Turk is true to his word of using a true fullback... then we may see alot of this kid!

[dwhite32]

people coming in for the hit wont even see this guy coming cause he is so **** short. He's gonna kill people

[billsfansince60]

WoW putting lineman on there back, theres no way we cant score at the goalline now. Will call out JUMBO package and send out Viti and Omon and Lynch.


Having a couple of 6'6" receivers won't hurt either!!

[Savior77]

I REALLY hope this guy makes the team...and not just because it's the same situation as Caleb Campbell. He looks like one hell of a FB.

[Cheesus]

WHOA! Never get on this guy's badside.

Check out 1:13 and 1:29 as well.

[Cheesus]

I hope they make his jersey soon. I love this guy.

[rich15431]

I like the guy but the story about him is he is too slow for the NFL. Between the tackles he would be a good lead blocker. If he goes outside to lead a sweep or catch a screen pass he will not be effective because of his lack of speed. NFL linebackers are too quick for him to be able to get a solid hit most of the time on the outside. I like the guy and glad to see him drafted by the Bills but I seriously doubt if he makes the team. Being tall or strong does not make you an NFL football player.

[Thurmanator34]

I'm a little surprised we didn't just draft him at #251. To ensure nobody else got him and to give him the satisfaction of being drafted. If they wanted another CB/S for camp they could have signed Cox or another UDFA. Either way I'm happy he's coming to camp and hope he makes he squad. This is the type of guy that gives LB concussions. You know he's gonna give 110% every play, and would be a great protector for Trent.

[kester8608]

We Love You Mike!!!!
Blow It Up!!!

[Exca|ibur]

very nice pick up!

[JayK]

Huge Bills fan living in the wrong part of NY. Own a bar and am looking for Bills neons to show my customers what the only real NY team is. Wiilingh to purchase, or swap the cheesy Jets and Giants neons that I refuse to hang on my walls!

[JayK]

Huge Bills fan living in the wrong part of NY. Own a bar and am looking for Bills neons to show my customers what the only real NY team is. Wiiling to purchase, or swap the cheesy Jets and Giants neons that I refuse to hang on my walls!

[berwickdawgs]

i guarante xavier omon was drafted to move to FB. he is listed as a FB prospect by most sources. he was a big hb at a small school but he doesnt have the speed to be a hb in the nfl.

Hi everyone... I'm from BerwickDawgs.com the high school football website for the Berwick Bulldogs (Viti's High School Team). I would like to make a correction. Vitti was a FB/LB in high school, and in his junior year he was 6'0" 225 lbs. Sorry don't have his senior year info. Also while Berwick maybe considered a "small school" for most people... believe me we're not. Take a peak at some of Berwick's accomplishments. Berwick is a small blue collar town and on a average friday night football game can get crowds of over 10,000 fans. Amazing considering Berwick's town size is just over 10,000. Our Dawgs play with alot of heart and fight for everything they get. Viti is a great asset for the Buffalo Bills, and he will not dissapoint.

Recent Berwick NFL Players: Bo Orlando, Ron Powlus, Mike Viti
Berwick Bulldog Football All-Time Record - 714-297-43 (70%)
Ranked #18 All-Time Wins in the Nation
Ranked #3 All-Time Wins in Pennsylvania
Ranked #18 All-Time Playoff Win Percentage in the Nation
3 National Championships - 1983, 1992, 1995 (USA Today News Paper)
6 PIAA Class AAA State Championships - 1988, 1992, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997
26 Championship Seasons
41 Straight Wins - 1994-1997
9 Undefeated Seasons
14 Straight Conference Championships
28 10-Win Seasons
Most Wins in the State in 1980's (108) and 1990's (127)
Ranked as 5th Greatest Football Team by USA Today
Ranked 6 times on USA Today Top 25 Final - #1 (1983, 1992, 1995), #3 (1988), #4 (1996), #18 (1994)
14 Different Teams Ranked on USA Today Top 25 - 1982, 1983, 1984, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 2000, 2001
First team Ever to be named Three-Time National Champions by USA Today

- Courtesy of BerwickDawgs.com