Exclusive: Buffalo Bills bring back two familiar faces on the defensive line

With two major injuries on their defensive line, the Buffalo Bills have decided to bring back some familiar players. On Wednesday, the team announced the signings of Jordan Phillips and Quinton Jefferson to the 53-man roster.

Phillips, recently released by the Dallas Cowboys, appeared in only two games with one tackle. Meanwhile, Jefferson started this season with the Cleveland Browns, playing in five games with one sack and six tackles.

Both veteran linemen have had a slow start in 2024, which left them available, but returning to Buffalo might provide the spark they need. Phillips, especially, has often excelled with the Bills, a point he acknowledged on Wednesday:

“For sure, mostly because I’m an acquired taste, and they like my taste (here), you know what I’m saying?”

This marks Phillips’ third stint with the Bills, where he has played in 54 games, starting 19. Jefferson, who played with Buffalo in 2020, appeared in all 16 regular-season games that year.

“I had some options, but I definitely wanted to come back here,” Jefferson said on Wednesday. “I’m familiar with everyone, there’s a winning culture, they know me and my skill set, and it seemed like the right fit.”

Bills quarterback Josh Allen expressed enthusiasm about their return, saying, “I’m glad to have those two back. They’ve been great in the locker room and will make an immediate impact on the field.”

While it’s unclear if they’ll be ready for Sunday’s game against the Colts, the Bills may have no choice due to injuries. Phillips added, “I just want to give them enough to stick. I want to finish my career here… whatever I have to do, I’ll do it for the team.”