Buffalo Bills: Levi Wallace’s return improves the depth at cornerback

One of the decisions the Buffalo Bills had to make this offseason was whether or not to tender restricted free agent Levi Wallace. If the Bills were to offer a right of first refusal tender it would only cost a one-year deal worth $2.13 million, which is a great deal for a player who has 35 career starts over the past three seasons.

However, the Buffalo Bills ultimately decided not to make him an offer and he became an unrestricted free agent.

The move seemingly has paid off as the Buffalo Bills announced they have re-signed Levi Wallace to a one-year deal. While the financials aren’t available it would likely be under the $2.13 million he would have made as a restricted free agent.

According to Mike Garafolo, Levi Wallace appeared focused on returning to Buffalo and didn’t even entertain any other offers in free agency.

Over the past few seasons, Levi Wallace has been given a number of chances to earn the starting job but by the end of the season he has been splitting time with veterans. In 2019, Wallace was rotating with Kevin Johnson, and this past season it was Josh Norman.

In 35 games, Wallace has 161 total tackles, four interceptions, and 20 passes defended. He also played well during the team’s playoff run this past season with 12 total tackles, one sack, and one forced fumble.

While Levi Wallace may not develop into that full-time starter, his return is certainly a positive for this defense. The Buffalo Bills certainly could use some additional depth at the position, especially if the team decides that Dane Jackson should be the starter.

By bringing back Wallace, they add a veteran cornerback that knows this defense and has started at times. This is another smart move by general manager Brandon Beane that addresses a need they had this offseason.