Report: Bills to bring back familiar DT after release from Browns

The Buffalo Bills are expected to re-sign veteran defensive tackle following his recent release from the Cleveland Browns, as reported by Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com. Jefferson, who previously played for the Bills during the 2020 season, was let go by the Browns on Tuesday. Now 31, he contributed 23 tackles, three sacks, and 30 pressures (according to PFF) during his initial stint with Buffalo, playing around 50% of the defensive snaps. Since then, he’s had stints with the Las Vegas Raiders in 2021, Seattle Seahawks in 2022, New York Jets in 2023, and Cleveland in 2024, where he registered six tackles in five games before his release.

Although he may be in the latter part of his career, Jefferson could bolster Buffalo’s defensive line, which has been lacking in interior pass rush, with only three combined sacks from the defensive tackles over nine games. His addition could help offset the absence of rookie DeWayne Carter, who is sidelined with a wrist injury.

While Jefferson may not drastically improve the team’s run defense, which has struggled with an average of 4.8 yards allowed per carry, his familiarity with the Bills’ system as a rotational three-tech could be advantageous.

With recent roster changes, including Dawuane Smoot’s move to injured reserve and the release of safety Mike Edwards, Buffalo likely has the roster space for Jefferson without needing a corresponding move.