The Bills’ missed opportunity to acquire a defensive tackle at the trade deadline may come back to bite them in the playoffs. With the NFL trade deadline now behind us, teams are set to finish the season with their current rosters. This period always brings excitement with rumors and breaking news, sometimes involving star players.
Among the major trades was star cornerback Marshon Lattimore, who moved from the New Orleans Saints to the Washington Commanders, strengthening an already formidable defense and boosting their hold on the NFC East.
The Buffalo Bills, however, were relatively quiet this time around. Following their Week 6 win over the New York Jets, they made headlines by trading for wide receiver Amari Cooper, bolstering their receiving corps. But with the team sitting at 7-2 and a clear need at defensive tackle, it was surprising that General Manager Brandon Beane didn’t pursue help in that area. The only other move Buffalo made at the deadline was releasing safety Mike Edwards.
Buffalo’s vulnerability against the run remains a glaring issue. They’re allowing an average of 123 rushing yards per game, with five games already surpassing 100 yards. Their defensive line is also thin due to injuries, with rookie DeWayne Carter and recently Dawuane Smoot on IR, and Ed Oliver missing time due to a hamstring injury. While the Bills look strong now at 7-2, this unaddressed weakness in run defense could be a liability in the playoffs, potentially allowing opponents to control the clock and limit Josh Allen’s opportunities on the field.
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