Buffalo Bills: Options to replace Star Lotulelei this coming season

TAMPA, FL - OCTOBER 29: Vernon Butler #92 of the Carolina Panthers in action during a game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium on October 29, 2017 in Tampa, Florida. The Panthers defeated the Bucs 17-3. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
TAMPA, FL - OCTOBER 29: Vernon Butler #92 of the Carolina Panthers in action during a game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium on October 29, 2017 in Tampa, Florida. The Panthers defeated the Bucs 17-3. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
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Buffalo Bills
ORCHARD PARK, NY – SEPTEMBER 29: Harrison Phillips #99 of the Buffalo Bills high fives teammates before the game against the New England Patriots at New Era Field on September 29, 2019 in Orchard Park, New York. New England defeats Buffalo 16-10. (Photo by Brett Carlsen/Getty Images)

Harrison Phillips

If the Buffalo Bills coaching staff had their choice they would plug Harrison Phillips into this role and be very happy. The former third round pick was having a breakout season last year and was even starting to out-snap Lotulelei.

However, he suffered a torn ACL in Week 3 against the Cincinnati Bengals that cost him the remainder of the season. This injury is the big question mark that is going to be the deciding factor on what role Phillips has, and if he can be the starter for the Bills.

If Harrison Phillips comes into camp and is fully recovered, or able to play with no limitations, then Phillips becomes that starter next to Ed Oliver and the Buffalo Bills probably get a boost in terms of production. Phillips was showing he could provide a little more, especially getting after the quarterback, than Lotulelei.

However, if Phillips still needs to rehab and isn’t fully recovered the coaching staff is likely going to turn to this next player.

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