BREAKING: Bills Confirm The Signing Of Another Top Star
The Buffalo Bills have reinforced their defensive line with the addition of veteran defensive tackle DeShawn Williams, who started 10 games for the Carolina Panthers last season.
The team confirmed on March 28 that they have inked a one-year deal with Williams. The 31-year-old recorded 33 total tackles, seven quarterback hits, and one sack during the previous season. Prior to his stint with the Panthers, Williams spent three seasons with the Denver Broncos, where he demonstrated versatility by playing both defensive tackle and defensive end positions. In 2022, he amassed 4.5 sacks while with the Broncos.
Bills Make Two Signings
Williams’ addition will not only provide depth to the defensive line but also bring a valuable veteran presence to the Buffalo Bills’ locker room. As highlighted by the team in its announcement of his signing on Thursday, Williams boasts significant experience across the NFL landscape and even spent a brief period north of the border.
The team noted, “Williams initially signed with the Cincinnati Bengals as an undrafted free agent in 2015, seeing action in 4 games during the 2016 season. He subsequently spent time on the practice squads of the Denver Broncos, Miami Dolphins, and Indianapolis Colts before embarking on a short stint in the Canadian Football League. However, his time in the CFL was cut short due to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.”
Building out the defensive line. 😤
We’ve signed DT DeShawn Williams to a one-year deal! #BillsMafia pic.twitter.com/9rRFfzP2Tl
— Buffalo Bills (@BuffaloBills) March 28, 2024
The Buffalo Bills have also officially confirmed the acquisition of defensive tackle Austin Johnson, a former second-round draft pick who started 17 games for the Los Angeles Chargers last season. Notably, Johnson will reunite with his former Penn State and Tennessee Titans teammate, DaQuan Jones.
Bills general manager Brandon Beane expressed optimism about Johnson’s potential impact, stating, “I have high hopes for Austin. I think even DaQuan, you’ve seen in our system improve his pass rush, and we do think Austin can kind of follow that same trajectory.” Beane mentioned that Johnson visited the team and left a positive impression. He praised Johnson as a “great young man” who emphasized the importance of being part of a winning culture and team. Additionally, DaQuan Jones played a role in endorsing the Bills’ environment to Johnson.
Bills Bring Back Key Players at Defensive Line
The Buffalo Bills entered the offseason with just two defensive linemen under contract, Ed Oliver and Eli Ankou. However, they have been proactive in addressing this position. In addition to adding Austin Johnson and DeShawn Williams in free agency, the Bills have retained two key players from last season’s defensive line.
On March 12, the team announced the re-signing of DaQuan Jones to a two-year contract. Jones played a vital role as an anchor on the defensive line last season before suffering a torn pectoral muscle that sidelined him for 10 games. The re-signing of Jones was considered a top priority for the Bills by The Athletic’s Joe Buscaglia before the start of free agency. Buscaglia emphasized Jones’ importance to the team’s defensive scheme and his cost-effectiveness, given his age (32) and recent injury. Jones’s performance in the Bills’ defensive scheme last season made his retention crucial for the team’s success in 2024.
Additionally, the Bills brought back defensive end A.J. Epenesa, who had a breakout season in 2023. Epenesa recorded 20 total tackles, 6.5 sacks, and two interceptions, including one returned for a touchdown. His impressive performance made his re-signing an important move for the Bills to maintain defensive stability and build upon last season’s success.