The Buffalo Bills already have locked up one half of their aerial attack -- signing quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick to a multiyear contract extension earlier this year -- and wide receiver Stevie Johnson expects to be taken care of similarly this offseason.
Johnson, who's set to become a free agent, told The Buffalo News on Wednesday that he's aware last Saturday's victory over the Denver Broncos could have been his final home game as a Bill, but he's optimistic he'll be back in 2012.
"I don't know," Johnson said when asked what gives him reason for his confidence in a new deal. "I just feel like being here four years and with the coaches that I have here, with the players, with Fitz signing his deal, you would think you'd have the 1-2 punch. When Fitz came on, I came on. So you would think they would keep it together."
Johnson has emerged as one of the best young receivers in the NFL over the past two years, totaling 154 receptions for 2,037 yards with 16 touchdowns in 31 games.
The Bills could elect to place a franchise tag on Johnson if the two sides can't reach any agreement on a new deal.
The Bills end their season on the road Sunday at the New England Patriots.