BREAKING: Bills Re-calls 4 stars under radar for another big roles

This offseason has been eventful for the Buffalo Bills, marked by significant moves and numerous headlines. Early on, the team released long-time veterans such as Mitch Morse, Tre’Davious White, and Jordan Poyer, while starters like Gabe Davis, Micah Hyde, and Leonard Floyd departed in free agency.

In a major move, the Bills traded their top receiver, Stefon Diggs, to the Houston Texans. This trade created historic dead cap but appeared necessary for all parties involved. Amidst these changes, the team continues to pursue their fifth straight AFC East title, generating plenty of discussions.

However, amidst all the headlines, several players have been overlooked or not discussed enough this offseason. These players are poised to play significant roles in the upcoming season and deserve more attention.

4 Bills who are under-the-radar this offseason that will play big roles

O’Cyrus Torrence

The focus on the offensive line has been centered around the vacancies at center and left guard following Mitch Morse’s departure. Currently, the plan is for Connor McGovern to shift from left guard to center, with David Edwards stepping in as the starting left guard.

Additionally, Dion Dawkins signed a contract extension, and Spencer Brown underwent shoulder surgery this offseason after an injury against the Chiefs in the playoffs. This leaves O’Cyrus Torrence, who has flown under the radar this offseason, which could be beneficial as he enters his second season.

Torrence, a second-round pick last year, secured the starting right guard position and started every game. He performed admirably on the interior of the offensive line, and the Bills coaching staff will be looking for him to maintain that level of play in 2024.

Terrel Bernard

Last year, all eyes were on Terrel Bernard and other linebackers as the Buffalo Bills searched for Tremaine Edmunds’ replacement. The former first-round pick departed in free agency to join the Chicago Bears, leaving the Bills without a clear replacement.

Initially, the competition for the linebacker position included Bernard, Tyrel Dodson, and A.J. Klein, with the situation remaining uncertain until Week 1, especially as Bernard missed much of the preseason due to injury.

Any initial concerns were quickly dispelled as Bernard excelled early in the season and maintained high performance throughout his first year as a starting linebacker. He ended the season with three interceptions, three fumble recoveries, and 6.5 sacks.

With veterans like Micah Hyde and Jordan Poyer no longer on the roster, there will be increased pressure on Terrel Bernard to step into a leadership role for the defense.

A.J. Epenesa

A.J. Epenesa was a significant topic early in the offseason due to his impending free agency after playing out the final year of his rookie contract last season. The Bills, facing limited cap space, had to choose between retaining Epenesa or Leonard Floyd, who led the team in sacks last year.

Ultimately, the Bills opted to re-sign their former second-round pick to a two-year, $12 million deal. Epenesa’s inclusion on this list is due to his projected role as a starter this season, marking the most substantial opportunity of his career thus far.

While Von Miller has garnered much attention at the position, the former All-Pro, coming off a challenging season and recovering from a torn ACL in 2022, secured a new contract. However, Miller is expected to primarily serve as a situational pass rusher due to his age, with the coaching staff likely aiming to manage his workload to preserve his effectiveness.

Consequently, Epenesa is poised to take on a more prominent role, potentially starting opposite Greg Rousseau—a development that hasn’t received enough attention this offseason.

Christian Benford

 

Christian Benford finds himself in a similar position to A.J. Epenesa, with numerous storylines surrounding his position this offseason. By the end of the upcoming season, he could emerge as the Buffalo Bills’ top cornerback.

During this offseason, the Bills released former first-round pick Tre’Davious White and lost Dane Jackson in free agency. Additionally, Rasul Douglas was absent for the entire OTA period, and there are lingering questions about whether Kaiir Elam can fulfill his potential as a first-round draft pick.

The linchpin of the cornerback position, however, is Christian Benford, a former sixth-round pick entering his third season with the Bills and second as a starting cornerback. He earned the starting job out of training camp last year and started 14 games, recording two interceptions and defending 10 passes.

With another year in the Bills’ defensive system and added experience as a full-time starter, Benford is poised to further develop and solidify himself as a cornerstone at the cornerback position. His growth and performance will be crucial for the Bills’ defense this season.