Last year’s offseason saw Brandon Beane, Buffalo Bills general manager, make a big move by signing Von Miller, the pass-rusher. However, Beane has warned that this year will be slightly different — no exceptionally big splashes.
That doesn’t mean there haven’t been any moves made, though. In fact, Jeffrey Rusert of Jefferson County reports that Beane and coach Sean McDermott have signed a few free agents that are guaranteed to impact the incoming season.
Defensive Tackle: Jordan Phillips
The Buffalo Bills were in need of a strong defensive tackle, and they wanted nothing more than to re-sign Jordan Phillips for another year. After all, he’s a worthy veteran with glittering results.
That said, 6’6″, 30-year-old Phillips has a substantial injury history, which presents a possible risk for the Bills. He’s recently had offseason surgery on his rotator cuff, and has only played three full regular seasons during his entire nine-year run.
Defensive End: Shaq Lawson
Since Von Miller ended his season early due to a knee injury, the Bills had to add another free agent to their defensive end. And Shaq Lawson fit the bill.
The 6’3″ 265lb player started six games for the Bills last year, with an average of 3.5 sacks in the final four games. This was a notable improvement from his performance during his Jets season, ending with nine quarterback hits instead of five.
Ultimately, there isn’t much risk with bringing the player back on his one-year short-term deal. He’s well known by the coaching staff and purportedly feels comfortable in the building.
Cornerback: Dane Jackson
Originally, the Bills had a round tender on the restricted free agent cornerback Dane Jackson. However, after just a couple of days, they signed him for a one-year deal, lowering his hit from the otherwise $2.7 million. The lowered cap, however, gives Jackson a few guarantees.
In the upcoming season, he will offer depth to the outside corner alongside fellow players Kaiir Elam and Tre’Davious White.
The risk with Jackson comes from the extra guarantees included in his contract. Regardless, this one-year deal fits the Bills’ theme quite nicely.
Safety: Jordan Poyer
Before becoming a free agent, the 6’0″ safety expressed excitement for exploring the market. However, he evidently didn’t find the deals he was expecting. Thus, the soon-to-be 32-year-old is back with the Bills for another two years.
His return has filled a massive hole at safety, and he’s set to be opposite Micah Hyde, a player he’s been starting with since 2017.
Even though the team still needs to add depth here, the Bills only lost one game with Poyer on the field last season!
Wide Receiver: Trent Sherfield
In keeping with the one-year theme, Trent Sherfield, the 6’0″ 219lbs wide receiver, is back to bolster the depth of the special teams and wide receiver room. This move addresses a clear need right off the bat.
Although, analysts mention that the team should still pack this position more by finding a fit at No. 2 receiver, particularly since Gabe Davis’ contract runs out after this season.
