With several defensive linemen potentially going in free agency, the Buffalo Bills will need to search elsewhere for replacements. Fortunately for them, there are players who might be a good fit for what they’re attempting to achieve.
The Bills might add some youth to their aging defensive line, as Bleacher Report stated in a recent article breaking down each team’s free agency requirements. Furthermore, with some of those older players on expiring contracts, it might not be a terrible idea to look for a younger player who can commit to them long-term.
Solomon Thomas, a defensive lineman for the New York Jets, could be that guy. While he is already 28 years old, he is still much younger than DaQuan Jones and Jordan Phillips, both of whom are in their 30s. Furthermore, Thomas’ versatility might be a valuable asset for a Bills club looking to maintain its top-10 defense.
“The Bills’ defensive line will undoubtedly look different in 2024.” DaQuan Jones, Tim Settle, Jordan Phillips, and Poona Ford all have contracts expiring, and the Bills could benefit from bringing in younger players. Jones and Phillips are both in their forties, but Solomon Thomas is only 28. “The defensive lineman can line up on the inside or outside and has been productive as a pass-rusher for the Jets this season,” the Bleacher Report article stated why the Bills should consider Solomon.
Solomon will most likely receive more incentives while playing for a Bills squad that is ready to lose defensive depth. That means he may have the opportunity to begin and build a larger role.
In terms of Buffalo, he could be a low-cost alternative who can assist stabilize their defense. Of course, it’s unclear whether the Jets will let him leave, but the Bills may potentially try to lure him away from the Big Apple.
Other Free Agent Needs for the Buffalo Bills
The Buffalo Bills have an excellent combination of offense and defense, which has allowed them to remain in the hunt for the playoffs in 2023. They can, however, be inconsistent at times, as evidenced by their tight 24-22 victory over the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 16.
The Chargers were able to stay in the game thanks to a Josh Allen interception and a number of fumbles, but blunders like that might cost them in the postseason.
Having said that, the Bills could use some help in other ways. They may bring in more wide receivers for Allen to throw to, as well as an edge-rusher and interior defender.
Darnell Mooney, Tyler Boyd, Gabe Davis, Michael Thomas, and DJ Chark might all be good wide receiving choices for the Bills, but they’d have to pay a lot to get them.
It remains to be seen what the Bills will do, but if they can keep their present core and make some upgrades along the way, the organization and its fanbase should be in for some exciting days.
