Home » Bills Starter Drops ‘Breaking News’ on Buffalo’s Latest Signing

Bills Starter Drops ‘Breaking News’ on Buffalo’s Latest Signing

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The Buffalo Bills have been diligently reconstructing their roster in preparation for the upcoming 2024 NFL season. Following the abrupt release of several key veterans to address salary cap issues, the team found themselves with numerous positions to fill.

One significant move amidst this process was the re-signing of defensive tackle DaQuan Jones to a two-year, $16 million contract. Joe Buscaglia of The Athletic emphasized Jones’ importance, particularly noting the scarcity of starting options in the defensive tackles room.

Despite concerns arising from the lack of signings in the defensive tackle position during the initial two weeks of free agency, the Bills made a notable announcement on Saturday, March 23. DaQuan Jones took to social media platform X to reveal that Buffalo had secured his backup in Austin Johnson, formerly of the Los Angeles Chargers.

Jones’ announcement regarding the signing of Austin Johnson brought relief to the team and its supporters, as it addressed a critical need and added depth to the defensive line ahead of the forthcoming season.

Bills DT DaQuan Jones expected to play Sunday against Patriots - Buffalo Rumblings

Following DaQuan Jones’s announcement on social media platform X regarding Austin Johnson’s signing with the Buffalo Bills, Johnson responded with a light-hearted comment, saying, “😂😂😂 Alright Mr. Schefter lmao.”

Subsequently, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport confirmed the news approximately 20 minutes later, stating, “Sources confirm: Austin Johnson is signing a 1-year deal with Buffalo to play alongside former teammate DaQuan Jones. The deal is worth up to $4M.”

The connection between Johnson and Jones goes back to their college days at Penn State in 2013. Jones was selected by the Tennessee Titans in the fourth round of the 2014 NFL draft, while Johnson was drafted by the Titans in the second round of the 2016 NFL draft. The two players were teammates until Johnson joined the New York Giants in 2020. Following his stint with the Giants, Johnson signed a two-year, $14 million contract with the Los Angeles Chargers in 2022. Now, they are set to reunite once again as teammates with the Buffalo Bills.

Austin Johnson confirmed his move to Buffalo on his Instagram Stories and took a moment to acknowledge DaQuan Jones with a shout-out. Reposting the news announcement, Johnson wrote, “And yes @dqj_90 is the best recruiter out 😂😂” along with two laugh-cry emojis. This playful interaction highlights the camaraderie between the two players and adds a touch of humor to the announcement of Johnson’s signing with the Buffalo Bills.

Austin Johnson was Called the ‘Perfect’ Backup for Bills DT DaQuan Jones

While the Buffalo Bills missed out on signing Arik Armstead, analysts were delighted to learn about Austin Johnson’s move to Orchard Park.

Sal Capaccio of WGR 550 highlighted the significance of addressing the defensive tackle position for the Bills during the offseason. He noted that before the recent signings, the Bills had only Ed Oliver and Eli Ankou under contract for the 2024 season. With the re-signing of DaQuan Jones and the addition of Austin Johnson, Capaccio emphasized the improvement in depth at the position, although there’s still work to be done in terms of numbers.

Capaccio also pointed out Johnson’s versatility, highlighting his ability to play nose tackle or even defensive end in a 3-4 scheme, but primarily serving as a defensive tackle in a 4-3 alignment. This versatility adds value to the Bills’ defensive line, allowing for flexibility in defensive schemes.

Kevin Siracuse of Built in Buffalo echoed the sentiment, praising the addition of Austin Johnson as the ideal backup for DaQuan Jones at the 1-technique position.

Johnson’s statistics over the past two seasons with the New York Giants demonstrate his productivity on the field, with 69 total tackles, 3 passes defensed, 1 forced fumble, 1 fumble recovery, and 1 sack in 25 games. During his tenure with the Giants, spanning 33 games and 17 starts, Johnson amassed 90 total tackles, 1 forced fumble, 1 fumble recovery, 2 passes defensed, and 4.5 sacks, showcasing his ability to make an impact on the defensive line. Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 314 pounds, Johnson brings size and experience to the Bills’ defensive front.

DL Austin Johnson signs one-year deal with the Buffalo Bills - Buffalo Rumblings

The Bills Defense Will Look Very Different in 2024

Amidst a flurry of roster changes, the Buffalo Bills made significant moves, including parting ways with key players such as Tre’Davious White, Siran Neal, Jordan Poyer, and Leonard Floyd. Additionally, All-Pro safety Micah Hyde is contemplating retirement.

In response to these departures, the Bills re-signed safety Taylor Rapp to a three-year, $10.6 million contract and acquired safety Mike Edwards from the Kansas City Chiefs. These moves aim to bolster the team’s depth and talent in the secondary.

Furthermore, Buffalo extended cornerback Taron Johnson’s contract, making him the highest-paid nickel corner in the league. This demonstrates the Bills’ commitment to solidifying their defensive backfield.

On the defensive front, the Bills signed linebacker Nicholas Morrow to fortify their linebacker corps. However, linebacker Tyrel Dodson opted to sign with the Seattle Seahawks, marking a departure from Buffalo’s roster.

Overall, these roster changes reflect the Bills’ proactive approach in reshaping their team for the upcoming season, ensuring depth and competitiveness across various positions on both sides of the ball.

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