The Buffalo Bills revamped their team this offseason with a shift towards a younger and more budget-friendly roster. Despite only selecting one defensive end in the 2024 NFL draft, Buffalo is considering bringing back experienced player Jerry Hughes to bolster their defensive line. In a recent analysis of each team’s primary needs, Bleacher Report’s Alex Ballentine suggested that reuniting with Hughes would be a prudent move for the Bills. Hughes, who spent nine seasons with Buffalo before joining the Houston Texans in 2022, could provide valuable depth on the edge for the team. While the Bills have made efforts to fill gaps left by departing veteran starters, adding Hughes could offer additional support at key positions like defensive end, especially in light of Von Miller’s reduced role and the need to replace Leonard Floyd’s contributions. Despite turning 36 in August, Hughes is seen as still having significant potential to contribute to the team.
During the last two seasons, he recorded a total of 67 tackles, 13 hits on quarterbacks, 12 sacks, 3 forced fumbles, and 1 interception. Cole Thompson of SI highlighted before free agency that Hughes, who led Houston with 9.5 sacks in 2022, transitioned to a rotational role supporting Will Anderson and Jonathan Greenard. His move to Texas was logical for the Sugar Land native, with Bills Mafia sending him off with good wishes. Hughes expressed his gratitude to Buffalo on Instagram after deciding to join the Texans in free agency, thanking the Pegula family, teammates, coaches, staff, and Bills Mafia for the wonderful nine years. He left Buffalo as the team’s fourth all-time sack leader and led in pass rush win rate during his final season. The Bills added Javon Solomon, a defensive end from Troy, in the fifth round of the 2024 NFL draft. Solomon, despite being undersized at 6-foot-1, led the FBS in sacks last season, demonstrating his potential impact. He emphasized that his height won’t hinder his performance and drew inspiration from successful undersized players like Elvis Dumervil. Solomon aims to excel and make a difference in the NFL.
