After they were unable to deal Roscoe Parrish before Tuesday's trading deadline, the Buffalo Bills have demoted him. The long-time punt returner will give up duties to Fred Jackson.

To be sure, this is a major change.

Parrish has struggled this season but has led the league in punt-return average the last two seasons. At 13 yards per runback, he is the NFL's all-time leader in punt returns. For whatever reason, he hasn't been as productive this season. Parrish is averaging only six yards per punt return and had a fatal fumble against the Cleveland Browns two weeks ago.

Jackson, meanwhile, appears to be a natural. He had a 27-yard return last week against the Jets, with another 22-yarder called back. In the past, he has filled in for Parrish with high results. On seven returns last season, Jackson averaged 16.6 yards. With Marshawn Lynch back from suspension, this is another way for Jackson to get his hands on the ball.

Parrish? His days may be numbered in Buffalo. Offensively, he has become a footnote. And, at least for now, he is not the team's primary punt returner.