The Buffalo Bills have made a significant move to strengthen their pass rush by signing a five-time Pro Bowl edge rusher to a one-year, $12.6 million contract. While the player has been highly productive throughout his career, the signing comes with some risk due to recent injury concerns.
Since entering the league as a top draft pick in 2016, the pass rusher has accumulated 72 sacks over his career. However, injuries have limited his availability in recent seasons, as he played only five games in 2022, nine in 2023, and 14 in 2024. Despite this, at age 30, he is still younger than the veteran pass rusher he is set to replace.
Buffalo’s pass rush has been a consistent issue in key postseason losses over the past several years. Following a narrow AFC Championship Game defeat, the team’s head coach emphasized the importance of dominating the line of scrimmage. He reiterated that a strong front on both sides of the ball is crucial to long-term success and championship contention.
In an attempt to bolster their pass rush in 2022, the team signed a veteran edge rusher to a massive contract, but an injury derailed his impact. The general manager acknowledged the gamble of signing an aging player but noted that, at the time, the move was intended to help secure a Super Bowl run.
Now, the team is taking a similar chance with their new signing. His former team, which had previously given him a record-breaking contract extension, released him last week in a move to free up salary cap space. His time with that franchise saw him rack up impressive stats, including 343 tackles, 157 quarterback hits, 87 tackles for loss, and 17 forced fumbles.
His arrival in Buffalo is expected to benefit another young pass rusher, who recently signed a lucrative four-year extension. Although the younger player has shown flashes of potential, he has yet to develop into a consistent game-changer. With an experienced edge rusher now playing opposite him, he may have the opportunity to take his performance to the next level.
If the new addition can stay healthy and play at a high level, Buffalo’s defensive front could see significant improvement. His presence also shifts another edge rusher into a more specialized role, which could enhance his effectiveness.
This move is a calculated risk, but if it pays off, it could be the key to strengthening a defense that has struggled to pressure top quarterbacks in critical moments.