The Buffalo Bills named rookie quarterback E.J. Manuel the starter in the team opener against the New England Patriots on Sunday.
Manuel only played in two preseason games after undergoing a minor procedure on his left knee on Aug. 18.
The rookie, who was the first quarterback drafted back in April, had a pretty solid preseason in the games he did play. He went 26-of-33 in passing for 199 yards and two touchdowns and no interceptions in his two preseason appearances.
Coach Doug Marrone had planned to start undrafted rookie Jeff Tuel if Manuel was unable to suit up. However, the 16th overall draft pick returned to practice wearing a knee brace Sunday.
Marrone said Manuel will start for the Bills in the opener because his recovery from the procedure was progressing ahead of schedule. Manuel participated fully in practice on Monday.
