Buffalo Bills: Why Ed Oliver is poised for a breakout sophomore campaign
By Daniel Bruce
Coming off a strong rookie season, Ed Oliver will be looking to add some consistency to become an even greater force for the Buffalo Bills in 2020.
The 2019 9th overall selection in the NFL Draft, Ed Oliver played up to his billing in his first year with the Buffalo Bills but has the potential to take his game to a whole other level.
The extended offseason due to COVID-19 can be tough on some players and Oliver is an example of that. In May, Oliver was arrested for driving while intoxicated (DWI) and that is not the way a young player wants to make the headlines for.
Past related suspensions, like Jets tight end Chris Herndon who violated the league’s policy on substance abuse, received a four-game suspension that year, so it’s likely Oliver faces a possible suspension in 2021.
On the field, the future star defensive tackle should have plenty to give for 2020, after having a long offseason to improve his strength, quickness and receive help from the coaching staff, the improvement should be clear.
With the departure of Jordan Phillips, Oliver shouldn’t have to worry about fighting for snaps with a veteran, while the Bills did add Quinton Jefferson at 3-technique, expect him to be a rotational lineman.