The Buffalo Bills had already established a significant lead in the AFC East by Week 9, and their victory over the Miami Dolphins nearly sealed their divisional dominance. While the win wasn’t essential for maintaining their top position, it provided extra leverage, making it an opportune moment to consider potential changes to their defensive strategy.
Consistently, opposing teams have exploited the Bills’ defense, averaging an alarming 4.8 yards per carry against them. Buffalo ranks 17th in total yardage, allowing an average of 333 yards per game. A key factor in the defense’s lackluster performance has been the underwhelming play of the defensive front. Injuries have also played a role, yet the performance of certain healthy key players indicates that a change is necessary. With the Bills firmly in control of the division, this is an excellent chance for the coaching staff to integrate new talent and gain valuable experience as they aim for a deep playoff run.
The defensive front four has struggled significantly, with the exception of defensive end Greg Rousseau, while the performances of others, such as DaQuan Jones and Ed Oliver, have been lackluster. Dawuane Smoot’s upcoming surgery and placement on injured reserve adds to the woes. A.J. Epenesa has shown flashes of talent but remains inconsistent, Casey Toohill’s contributions have been minimal, and Von Miller’s effectiveness has diminished.
Looking at the secondary, while Damar Hamlin represents an inspiring narrative, he is not seen as a long-term solution at safety. This raises concerns about his playing time over a future prospect at the position.
The central argument is that head coach Sean McDermott should increase the playing time for the team’s rookie defenders, particularly DeWayne Carter (when healthy), Javon Solomon, and Cole Bishop. While this would be a non-issue if the defensive line or safeties performed well, they have not during the first half of the 2024 season, making a switch to younger players with potential a more appealing option. Providing these rookies with experience now could benefit the team in the playoffs and beyond.
Although Bishop hasn’t impressed in limited action, the team believes he could be a foundational player at safety. Playing him over those who aren’t likely to be long-term starters would allow for vital development. Solomon, with four quarterback hits, two sacks, and one forced fumble in just 41 defensive snaps, showcases immense potential—so why is he seeing fewer snaps than Toohill?
While it’s acknowledged that the rookies would make mistakes, addressing these now would prove beneficial in the long run. The defense’s underperformance makes it impractical to dismiss the idea of changes, especially when promising players are buried on the depth chart behind less effective, non-essential ones. It may be wise for the Bills to discover what they have in these rookies rather than head into the playoffs with an inconsistent and uninspiring lineup.
