The Buffalo Bills selected linebacker, Matt Milano with one of their fifth round picks. The unknown rookie could be a crucial addition to the roster.
Matt Milano was found in the backfield of opposing offenses more than once during his tenure at Boston College. Although undersized, Milano looks like an absolute rocket bursting through offensive lines to make a tackle. Because of that, it was easy to tell he would be a worthwhile special teams player.
Milano played safety in high school and won Central Florida Defensive Player of the Year honors. During his first few years at Boston College, Matt Milano rarely saw the field. Not being given anything, he had to work to earn his playing time.
Things changed his final two years, playing 94% of the team’s defensive snaps.
The Boston College alum is one of those blue collar players you hear about. Cliches were thrown at him on draft day such as “high motor” and “gritty,” and they all hold true.
Milano is used to working for what he wants, so he gets another chance here in Buffalo.
He may not have a huge impact in the Buffalo defense right away because of his size and the competitiveness currently at the position. But if I saw him on the field would I be surprised? No.
The area where he will immediately make his impact is special teams. Players such as Milano, special teams are where they make their money. Special teams contributions make a player diverse, and more valuable to a roster. The more things you can do, the less expendable you are.
Buffalonews.com commented on the current state of the Bills’ special teams:
"“While there will be significant turnover, the Bills did manage to re-sign a pair of players in linebacker Lorenzo Alexander and safety Colt Anderson who figure to play key roles on special teams. Linebacker Ramon Humber, who led the team with 336 snaps and 12 tackles, is also back, while draft picks Matt Milano and Tanner Vallejo are projected to be immediate contributors.”"
Zay Jones and Tre’Davious White will have more opportunities to contribute towards the team this year. Some of Matt Milano’s work will go unnoticed this year, but it will be interesting so see how to team utilizes him in the future.
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