The Buffalo Bills retooled this offseason by moving toward a younger, more cost-effective roster. However, after only drafting just one defensive end in the 2024 NFL draft, Buffalo may bring back a trusted veteran.
In assessing “Every Team’s Biggest Need” on Monday, May 13, Bleacher Report’s Alex Ballentine urged the Bills to reunite with defensive end Jerry Hughes Jr.. Hughes played in Buffalo for nine seasons before signing a two-year, $10 million contract with the Houston Texans in 2022.
“The defense will turn a new chapter in 2024,” Ballentine wrote. “Multiple veteran starters are gone, but the Bills did a good job of targeting affordable stopgap options. That being said, they could still use depth at two of the most important positions. Bringing back Jerry Hughes would be a cheap way to give them some depth on the edge.
“Von Miller was reduced to a rotational role last season and the Bills have to replace Leonard Floyd’s production.” While Hughes turns 36 in August, he still has a lot left in the tank.
Over the past two seasons, he registered 67 total tackles, 13 quarterback hits, 12 sacks, 3 forced fumbles, and 1 interception. SI’s Cole Thompson wrote ahead of free agency, “After leading Houston with 9.5 sacks in 2022, Hughes moved into a rotational role behind (2023 Defensive Rookie of the Year Will) Anderson and (Jonathan) Greenard.
“Despite missing the playoffs, Hughes managed to finish the regular season with three sacks and six tackles for losses. He’ll be 36 this offseason but still offers depth value for the right price.”
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