NFL update on Bell, Pittman

Good news for Demon football greats Demetrius Bell and David Pittman, both at critical junctures of their NFL careers, reports veteran NSU football observer Thomas Foster, known as the Demons' "clubhouse man" because he's something of a concierge for visitors to the fieldhouse and the team's locker room.

Part of his job is to take care of the team's locker room and facilities, but "T" adds a huge dose of hospitality to visitors, especially NFL scouts. Through the two-plus decades Foster has been at Northwestern, he's developed close contacts with various pro teams, and formed strong relationships with dozens of Demon players who have gone on to play at football's highest level.

Bell, the rookie offensive tackle who was a seventh-round draft pick of the Buffalo Bills, called Foster Monday night to say he would be playing the second and third quarters in the Bills' Saturday night exhibition opener against the Washington Redskins. Bell has moved up to second team at tackle, a remarkable step forward for a guy playing the position for only his third season ever.

This, from the excellent www.buffalobills.com website and a q&a with lead writer Chris Brown:

"Q - Any word on Demetrius Bell? How's he looking? Is he getting many reps?

A- Over the last two days I think Bell has really come along. He's fared well in the one-on-one pass protection matchups and I mentioned him in my practice notes tonight under the Getting Reps section. He's still learning, but he's made progress as far as I can see."

As far as Pittman is concerned, the third-year Baltimore Ravens cornerback is battling for the starting nickelback position (not really a starting job, but a busy one) after ending last season with a two-interception performance in the Ravens' 27-21 win over the Pittsburgh Steelers. The return of defensive coordinator Rex Ryan, despite the exit of head coach Brian Billick, is a good sign for Pittman, says Foster.

Ryan was quoted last season as saying Pittman has as much or more ability than most NFL defensive backs, but just needs to blossom into the player he can be. With a new head coach in Baltimore, this is a great time for Pittman to emerge on a talented Ravens defense.

Baltimore opens the preseason at New England Thursday night.