The 2013 first-round pick was benched just four weeks into the 2014 season in favor of Kyle Orton, a speedy ship-jump by then-head coach Doug Marrone.
But according to a report from The Buffalo News, Whaley has been bringing up Manuel in recent coaching interviews and telling candidates that they need to make progress in developing his young quarterback.
Whaley thinks Manuel's issues are a product of Marrone's ignorance more than anything, apparently.
Many around the league believe that there are a precious few quarterbacks who can actually be saved by coaching, but does Manuel actually need saving?
He finished his rookie season with a 58.8 percent completion rate and a positive touchdown to interception ratio, which is more than Peyton Manning can say (we're not comparing the two, relax). His progression includes the trademark struggles of any rookie, and not necessarily a project pick who needs to be abandoned.
While quality offensive coaching is in short supply, we wouldn't be surprised to see a coach jumping at this opportunity; not only to coach the Bills but to build on a foundation with Manuel that could already be stronger than anticipated.
The latest Around The NFL Podcast previews the Divisional Round and ranks the eight remaining quarterbacks in the playoffs. Find more Around The NFL content on NFL NOW.
