Bills' EJ Manuel: Has fifth-year option declined

The Bills have declined to exercise Manuel's fifth-year option, Mike Rodak of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis:

Since he was selected 16th overall in the 2013 NFL Draft, Manuel's start count has dwindled from 10 to four to two over the course of the past three seasons. His quarterback rating hasn't deviated much during his brief career -- from 77.7 as a rookie to a career-high 80.3 in 2014 -- and his lack of improvement allowed Tyrod Taylor to stake a claim to the No. 1 QB gig in training camp last summer. With Taylor bursting forth with 3,035 yards passing, 20 touchdowns versus six interceptions, and a healthy 568 yards and four more scores on the ground, he provided the offense with a dual threat that Manuel lacked. As a result, it was clear from the outset of the offseason that the Bills wouldn't commit the $11.4 million owed under the guidelines of Manuel's fifth-year option.