Jairus Byrd was not thrilled when the Buffalo Bills opted to franchise him last season over getting a contract extension and he likely will not be happy if they make the same move again. The safety is once again seeking a long-term contract extension, something the Bills appear unwilling to hand out despite referring to him as one of their best players. However, if he hits the market, several teams are preparing to offer him a pay raise.

The Bills are trying to make a decision on Byrd quickly before free agency begins. The two sides have attempted to negotiate a long-term deal, but general manager Doug Whaley is noting that team will not hesitate to use their tag, saying salary cap space is not an issue.

"We have to leave every option on the table open," said Whaley, via the team's website. "When you're trying to keep a good player you're going to try every means necessary to keep him. The salary cap will not prohibit us from getting done what we need to get done. So we are very comfortable. He's a Pro Bowl player, what is there not to love. He's an exceptional player and an exceptional person on and off the field so hopefully this thing works out. If it doesn't it won't be for lack of trying and lack of want. (It comes down) to what they're thinking compared to what we're thinking and hopefully we can mesh the two together and get something done."

If last season is any lesson for the Bills, they would be wise to get a long-term contract finalized for the three-time Pro Bowler. Byrd was not happy about getting tagged last year, waited until August to sign his contract and then did not play until the sixth game of the season. He would get a 20 percent raise from last season, but Buffalo should expect another hold out.

So what happens if Byrd hits the market? The Atlanta Falcons are reportedly extremely interested in the safety. The team has released Asante Samuel and is in the process of letting go of Thomas DeCoud. Byrd would be an excellent fit and upgrade to the young secondary. The safety is considered one of the best defensive players in the league now that players like Ed Reed are gone. The Falcons would be wise to try and recruit him on the off chance that Byrd is available.

The Cleveland Browns also believe they could be a fit for the safety. Byrd has positive history with several coaches on Cleveland's staff and could find the team an easy transition. The likelihood that Byrd is available is very slim given the Bills' intentions of using the tag once again, but free agency is right around the corner so anything if possible.