Evaluating the Buffalo Bills’ Defensive Ends: Depth, Needs, and Potential Additions
Under head coach Sean McDermott, the Buffalo Bills have struggled with consistency in their pass rush. Early in his tenure, this was partly due to a defensive scheme that emphasized maintaining gap integrity over aggressive edge rushing, as well as a lack of high-end talent at the position.
In recent years, general manager Brandon Beane has made significant efforts to bolster the defensive line. However, while some players have found success, the unit has been inconsistent—often failing to deliver in crucial moments. The Bills registered just 37 sacks last season, a sharp decline from the 53 they recorded in 2023.
With the recent release of veteran Von Miller, Buffalo enters free agency with only three defensive ends on the roster. Their attempts to land top-tier edge rushers like Maxx Crosby and Myles Garrett were thwarted by contract extensions, forcing the Bills to explore alternative options to fortify their defensive front.
Who Will the Bills Target?
Buffalo could add reinforcements through free agency, the draft, or a combination of both. In this breakdown of the Bills’ defensive end group, we assess their current players and explore potential additions.
A.J. Epenesa
- Contract Status (2025): Signed; final year of a two-year, $12 million deal ($7.487M cap hit, $4.148M dead cap)
- Age: 26 (27 on 9/15/2025)
- 2024 Stats: 39 tackles, 8 TFL, 6 sacks, 11 QB hits, 2 pass breakups, 2 forced fumbles, 1 safety
Epenesa has established himself as a reliable rotational piece but lacks consistency. Over the past three seasons, he has recorded at least six sacks annually but tends to have streaky production, with sacks coming in bunches rather than being spread out over the season. He has yet to record a playoff sack in 12 postseason appearances. While a mid-level extension could be considered after the season, the Bills may also allow him to walk in 2025.
Gregory Rousseau
- Contract Status (2025): Signed four-year, $80 million extension (cap hit TBD)
- Age: 25 (4/5/2025)
- 2024 Stats: 53 tackles, 8 sacks, 24 QB hits, 16 TFL, 3 pass breakups, 3 forced fumbles, 1 fumble recovery
Buffalo made a major commitment to Rousseau, rewarding his potential with a long-term deal. He started last season strong with three sacks and a forced fumble in Week 1 but managed just seven sacks in the next 18 games (including playoffs). Though inconsistent in pass-rushing production, Rousseau is a dominant run defender with disruptive length. The Bills are banking on him taking the next step toward elite status.
Dawuane Smoot (UFA)
- Age: 30 (31 on 3/2/2026)
- 2024 Stats: 16 tackles, 5 TFL, 1.5 sacks, 4 QB hits, 2 forced fumbles, 1 pass breakup
Smoot provided a veteran presence and solid run defense but wasn’t a game-changer as a pass rusher. If Buffalo wants a cost-effective rotational piece, they could bring him back on a low-cost, one-year deal, likely under $2.5 million.
Javon Solomon
- Contract Status (2025): Signed; second year of a four-year rookie deal ($1.02M cap hit)
- Age: 24 (25 on 1/17/2026)
- 2024 Stats: 13 tackles, 3 TFL, 2 sacks, 6 QB hits, 1 forced fumble, 1 fumble recovery
A highly productive college pass rusher, Solomon spent most of last season on special teams while adjusting to the pro game. He has the athletic upside to push for increased playing time and could be a candidate to take over some of Miller’s snaps.
Casey Toohill (UFA)
- Age: 28 (29 on 8/22/2025)
- 2024 Stats: 20 tackles, 2 TFL, 1 sack, 1 QB hit, 1 pass breakup, 1 fumble recovery
Toohill provided depth but isn’t a long-term solution. The Bills will likely move on in an effort to improve the unit.
How Many Edge Rushers Do the Bills Need?
Buffalo likely needs at least two, if not three, additional edge rushers to complete the group. The easiest move would be re-signing Smoot, given his run defense and ability to play inside on passing downs. Beyond that, the Bills must decide whether to prioritize the draft or free agency for their pass-rushing needs.
Potential Draft Targets
With three picks in the first two rounds (Nos. 30, 60, and 62), the Bills could invest in a young pass rusher. Possible targets include:
- Princely Umanmielen (Ole Miss): A twitchy, athletic edge rusher who fits Buffalo’s recent draft preferences but may not last until Round 2.
- Bradyn Swinson (LSU), Nic Scourton (Texas A&M), Mike Green (Marshall): Strong, long edge defenders who can stop the run and rush the passer.
- Late-round options: Tyler Batty (BYU) and Fadil Diggs (Syracuse) could provide developmental depth.
If the Bills are concerned about rookie learning curves, they might consider drafting multiple defensive ends to hedge their bets.
Could the Current DEs Step Up?
Buffalo hopes Solomon can emerge as a more consistent contributor in his second season. While expecting double-digit sack production may be unrealistic, increased playing time could allow him to become a disruptive presence.
Exploring the Free-Agent Market
The Bills could also turn to free agency for reinforcements, with several intriguing options available:
- Veterans: Khalil Mack (returning to his college roots at Buffalo), Josh Sweat (Super Bowl champion), and Charles Omenihu (conference rival).
- Reclamation projects: Former first-rounders like Payton Turner, K’Lavon Chaisson, or Clelin Ferrell could be low-risk signings.
If Buffalo wants a proven impact player, a trade might be their best bet. One intriguing option is Trey Hendrickson, given his connection to Bills senior defensive assistant Ryan Nielsen from their time in New Orleans. However, acquiring him would likely require a significant contract extension.
The Bottom Line
The Bills will be active in bolstering their pass rush this offseason. Whether through free agency, trades, or the draft, they must find ways to improve a unit that has lacked consistency. With a combination of veteran additions and young talent, Buffalo hopes to finally build a defensive front capable of dominating in key moments.
