The Buffalo Bills are looking to close a deal with free-agent quarterback Josh McCown.
The Buffalo News reported Thursday that the two sides have started negotiations on a contract, according to an NFL source. A deal for McCown could be wrapped up by Friday.
McCown, 35, has drawn considerable interest on the barren free-agent quarterback market since being released by the Buccaneers on Feb. 11. McCown spent the previous two days visiting the Browns. He also met with the Jets and Bears.
The Bills and new coach Rex Ryan are desperate to find an alternative to EJ Manuel, the former first-round pick who was benched four games into last season. Kyle Orton served as a Band-Aid last season; McCown would serve a similar purpose for a team without a first-round pick in April.
The latest Around The NFL Podcast breaks down the annual "Top 101 free agents" list and discusses the latest in league news. Find more Around The NFL content on NFL NOW.