Fred Taylor Visits With Bills

Former Jacksonville Jaguar running back Fred Taylor got a head start on the NFL free agency period, visiting with the Buffalo Bills on Tuesday.

The 33-year-old running back is looking to latch onto a new team after spending 11 seasons in Jacksonville. He is also expected to meet with the New England Patriots. Free agents can begin signing with new clubs Friday.

"At the end of the day, my No. 1 objective is to get somewhere and compete," Taylor said after his Buffalo visit. "Nothing is going to be given to me. I don't expect that."

It may appear from the outside that Taylor may have a tough time squeezing into a spot in the crowded Buffalo backfield with Marshawn Lynch and Fred Jackson firmly in place, but Lynch's recent off-the-field issues has his status up in the air.

Lynch was recently charged with three gun-related misdemeanors after his arrest earlier this month in Southern California. Because it was his second off-field incident in the past year, he faces a possible fine and suspension from the league.

"My job is to just come in and be a helper, and not stir up any problems or anything like that," he said. "I've been sharing my whole life."

Despite the issues the Bills still appear to be commited to Lynch, and Taylor said he wouldn't mind being a possible mentor to the 22-year-old.

"He's young with so much potential," Taylor said about Lynch. "Not saying I'm looking to be a father-figure to anyone or anything like that, but I know what I've gone through throughout my career. But the team hasn't said anything along that nature."