The Buffalo Bills are making headlines around the NFL as the countdown to Week 1 continues to wind down. Locking down plans for a new stadium, the franchise plans to build a brand new building on top of the current grounds on Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park. With construction estimated to be complete by 2025, the team may be searching for a new home for multiple seasons. Strapped up against the cap as they open training camp at the end of the month, the Bills could have multiple veterans fighting for roster spots.
Set to count for nearly $9.4 million in 2021, edge rusher Jerry Hughes will be fighting for his spot on the roster as the Bills are strong at defensive end after drafting both Gregory Rousseau and Carlos Basham Jr. in April. Veteran wideout Cole Beasley could also be a cap casualty as the team saves over $4 million in cap space if they cut ties with the 32-year-old. The Bills have as much depth at the wide receiver spot as any team in the league, with Emmanuel Sanders joining Stefon Diggs and Gabriel Davis and could decide to move on from Beasley.
Will Emmanuel Sanders Enjoy a Resurgence in Buffalo?
True. Sanders signed with the Bills in the offseason after they released John Brown in a cap-saving move. Appearing in 14 games for the New Orleans Saints last year, he recorded 61 receptions for 726 yards and five touchdowns. However, the SMU alumn averaged just 11.9 yards per catch, the lowest total of his 11-year career. Figuring to be a key contributor to Buffalo’s potent passing attack, look for the former third-round pick to join Diggs, Beasley, and Davis as the four primary targets for offensive coordinator Brian Daboll.
In a much more vertical offense with Allen at the helm, look for him to excel with opposing defenses focused on slowing down Diggs and Beasley. He remains one of the finest route runners in the league. Maintaining the ability to win in on the inside and out, look for Sanders to put forward one of the finest years of his career next season.
Can Isaiah Hodgins Make an Impact after Missing his Rookie Season?
True. Hodgins missed his entire rookie year after undergoing shoulder surgery. The Bills drafted him in the sixth round of the 2020 Draft. Successful during his first two years at Oregon State, the 22-year-old recorded 1,151 yards and seven touchdowns while averaging nearly 12 yards per catch. However, the San Jose native truly made his mark during his senior season with the Beavers. Racking up 86 catches, he hauled in 13 touchdown grabs while amassing over 1,100 yards receiving.
He is a forgotten member amidst one of the deepest receiver groups across the NFL. The 6’3 wideout has already earned the praise of his coaches and teammates throughout his offseason training program. As talented as they come with natural body control and easy hands at the catch point, look for Hodgins to thrive in Buffalo’s pass-heavy offense if he can stay healthy next season.
[pickup_prop id=”6512″]
Does Buffalo need to Extend Josh Allen Before the Start of the Season?
True. Allen has been one of the brightest young stars in the NFL since he was drafted seventh overall in 2018. Improving in each of his first three years in the league, he has seen his completion percentage rise from 52.8 percent during his rookie year to 69.2 a season ago. Up for the league-wide MVP award in 2020, the Wyoming alumni set new team records with 4,544 passing yards and 37 touchdown passes. Expected by many to reset the quarterback market when inking his next deal, both the Bills and their franchise signal-caller have remained in contact as the offseason progresses.
Making their intentions clear to lock up Allen to a long-term deal, look for both parties to work together throughout the summer. Adamant on helping the team out by spreading out his cap hits in the middle of their super bowl window, look for Lamar Jackson‘s deal to be the next building block in negotiations. With past extensions to Tre’Davious White and Dion Dawkins getting done in early August, look for general manager Brandon Beane to get a deal done with him in the next few weeks.
[pickup_prop id=”5393″]
Should Levi Wallace be a Lock to Start Opposite Tre’Davious White?
False. Enjoying an up and down campaign with the team a year ago, Wallace appeared in 12 games. Missing time with an ankle injury while also spending time on the Covid-19 list, he racked up 48 tackles, eight pass breakups, and two interceptions. Re-upping with the Bills in the offseason on a one-year deal, he has struggled in spots during the last two seasons, leading to grades of 60 and 66, according to Pro Football Focus.
Still looking to find a reliable No. 2 cornerback opposite of White, Buffalo enters next season with Wallace set to battle second-year man Dane Jackson. Showing strongly in limited fashion last season, Jackson recorded 15 tackles and an interception in two starts. With the quickness, fluidity, and ball skills to be a starter at the defensive back spot in the NFL, look for him to challenge for the No. 2 cornerback spot.
Check us out on our socials:
Twitter: @PTSTNews and @TalkPrimeTime
Facebook Page: Prime Time Sports Talk
Join our Facebook Group: Prime Time Sports Talk
Instagram: @ptsportstalk
Follow Chris Gallagher on Twitter @ChrisGally06
Main Image Credit:
Embed from Getty Images
