Published: September 30, 2008 11:52 pm            

BILLS: Team signs FB McIntyre, release Barnes

The Buffalo Bills shuffled fullbacks Tuesday by signing Corey McIntyre and releasing Darian Barnes.

McIntyre, an unsigned free agent with three years of NFL experience, spent last season with Atlanta before being released earlier this month. He also played with Cleveland and New Orleans, and is regarded as a capable blocker and special teams player.

The moves come as the undefeated Bills (4-0) prepare to play at Arizona (2-2) on Sunday, Buffalo’s final game before its bye week.

Barnes’ release comes after he sprained his right foot in Buffalo’s 24-23 win over Oakland on Sept. 21 and missed last weekend’s game at St. Louis.

The lone fullback on the Bills’ roster, Barnes is a seven-year NFL veteran who was in his first season with Buffalo. He had two catches for 34 yards this season and was used as a lead blocker for running backs Marshawn Lynch and Fred Jackson.

The Bills have reintroduced the fullback position in their offense this season under first-year coordinator Turk Schonert.

        

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