Buffalo Bills: 5 predictions heading into free agency

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ORCHARD PARK, NY – NOVEMBER 24: Shaq Lawson #90 of the Buffalo Bills celebrates his sack during the second half against the Denver Broncos at New Era Field on November 24, 2019 in Orchard Park, New York. Buffalo beats Denver 20 to 3. (Photo by Timothy T Ludwig/Getty Images) /

Bills will let Jordan Phillips and Shaq Lawson walk

This may not be a bold prediction but the Buffalo Bills will let Jordan Phillips and Shaq Lawson walk this offseason. Both players are coming off career years, with Phillips registering 9.5 sacks and Lawson adding 6.5 sacks of his own, and should strike significant pay days on the free agent market.

For the Bills though, it doesn’t make sense for them to compete to try and bring them back. The Bills depth at defensive tackle is still relatively good even if they lose Phillips. The Bills will have Ed Oliver, Star Lotulelei and Harrison Phillips at the top of their depth chart and can bring in another tackle, either a lower tier free agent or in the NFL Draft for that fourth spot.

As for defensive end, the depth isn’t great and there is still some concern around production with down years for Jerry Hughes and Trent Murphy. However, there should be some solid pass rushers likely available when the Bills are on the clock to replace Lawson and sign a free agent or two to round out the depth at the position.

The Bills defense certainly benefited from having both on the field but money can be spent more wisely at another needs.

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