JUST IN: Bills Add 3-Time All-Pro Linebacker key man
Buffalo Bills linebacker Matt Milano showcased his exceptional skills by earning All-Pro status in 2022. He seemed poised for a similarly outstanding performance in 2023 until a devastating injury occurred. Milano endured a fractured leg during Week 5, sidelining him for the rest of the season. His recovery journey was arduous, marked by a lengthy rehabilitation process due to the complexity of his injury, as hinted by the team. While Milano is anticipated to return for the commencement of the 2024 season, there’s speculation among analysts that the Bills might consider acquiring another experienced linebacker as a precautionary measure.
Bills Could Use Veteran Help
Bleacher Report’s Matt Holder has proposed a potential offseason strategy for all 32 NFL teams, highlighting the Buffalo Bills’ need to bolster their linebacker corps to mitigate any potential decline in performance following Matt Milano’s injury. Holder emphasized Milano’s peak performance as an All-Pro caliber player but noted concerns about his age, as he approaches 30 and is recuperating from a season-ending injury. Additionally, Holder pointed out the departure of Tyrel Dodson, who filled in admirably for Milano, in free agency.
Given these circumstances, Holder stressed the importance of acquiring another linebacker, suggesting Shaquille Leonard as a viable “insurance policy” for Milano. Leonard, a three-time All-Pro and former Defensive Rookie of the Year, struggled during the previous season, recording only 88 total tackles and one sack in 12 games. He faced challenges with injuries and hinted at the possibility of retirement following the season’s conclusion, acknowledging the need to carefully assess his health and performance before making any decisions about his future in the league.
Facing the possibility of his NFL career winding down, Leonard appeared introspective about the offseason ahead. Despite the uncertainties, he expressed satisfaction with his football journey, acknowledging the privilege of being among the select few to play the sport they love. For Leonard, maintaining a positive outlook and gratitude for the opportunity to play has been paramount.
Should Leonard decide to continue his career, his experience could offer valuable veteran leadership to the Buffalo Bills. The team recently parted ways with cornerback Tre’Davious White and safety Jordan Poyer, both key contributors on the field and influential figures in the locker room. Leonard’s presence could help fill the leadership void left by their departures, bringing a seasoned perspective to guide and inspire his teammates.
New Linebacker Help for the Bills
The Bills have taken steps to bolster their linebacker corps by selecting Washington linebacker Edefuan Ulofoshio with a fifth-round draft pick. As Ralph Ventre of SI.com’s Bills Central pointed out, the rookie may initially make his mark on special teams as he transitions to the NFL.
Ventre highlighted Ulofoshio’s early contributions on special teams during his freshman year in college, where he showcased his knack for making impactful plays by forcing fumbles on two separate kick returns in his debut game. Ulofoshio’s standout performance in the 2022 Alamo Bowl also earned him recognition as the team’s Coaches’ Special Teams Player of the Week.