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Buffalo Bills: Predicting roles for the reserve/future contract signings

By Caleb Holfoth

ORCHARD PARK, NY - AUGUST 08: Christian Wade #45 of the Buffalo Bills runs in the back field during the fourth quarter of a preseason game against the Indianapolis Colts at New Era Field on August 8, 2019 in Orchard Park, New York. Buffalo defeats Indianapolis 24 -16. (Photo by Brett Carlsen/Getty Images)
ORCHARD PARK, NY - AUGUST 08: Christian Wade #45 of the Buffalo Bills runs in the back field during the fourth quarter of a preseason game against the Indianapolis Colts at New Era Field on August 8, 2019 in Orchard Park, New York. Buffalo defeats Indianapolis 24 -16. (Photo by Brett Carlsen/Getty Images) /
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Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Christian Kirk (13) catches a pass while defended by Buffalo Bills cornerback Dane Jackson (30) during the third quarter at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Ariz. Nov. 15, 2020.Buffalo Bills Vs Arizona Cardinals /

DT Brandin Bryant

At age 27, the Buffalo Bills are Brandin Bryant’s fifth team in the NFL. Bryant also spent two seasons in the CFL after a year away from football. Making one appearance for Buffalo last season Bryant is a nose tackle type player who had a very successful college career at Florida Atlantic University.

Bryant is a player who will likely not make the team because of the return of nose tackle Star Lotulelei. Bryant is probably the least likely player signed to a future/reserve to make the 2021 53-man roster. Bryant is essentially just a camp body at this point for Buffalo and if the Bills add another defensive tackle in the draft Bryant is essentially a non-factor.

Projection: Cut

CB Dane Jackson

Dane Jackson not only has a very good chance of making the Buffalo Bills 53-man roster but even can crack the starting lineup if he can beat out Levi Wallace for the starting corner position across from star Tre’Davious White.

Jackson showed both good and bad play for the Bills last season in his five appearances recorded one interception and five passes defended. While Jackson did show positives he also allowed two touchdowns and a passer rating of 96.3 when targeted, per Pro Football Reference. General manager Brandon Beane indicated in his post-season press conference that Jackson would compete for a starting role. While this does not guarantee Jackson a spot on the roster he is very likely to make it after the promise he showed last season.

Projection: 53-Man Roster

S Josh Thomas

Josh Thomas made two appearances for the Buffalo Bills during the 2020 season after he was signed as an undrafted free agent after the 2020 NFL draft. Thomas was a two-time team captain at Appalachian State where he helped lead the team to a 54-12 record over his five seasons.

Without a preseason Thomas did not get to show much in-game play to the coached. Regardless coach Sean McDermott felt confident enough in Thomas to call him up from the practice squad for two games during the season.

Next. 4 players the Bills could trade away during the 2021 NFL Draft. dark

The Bills only have four safeties on the roster as of now and while they may add one during or after the draft Thomas may be a surprise player to make the 2021 53-man roster. Thomas will have a chance to play as preseason games will return this season and with strong play, Thomas can supplant his role as a backup safety.

Projection: 53-Man Roster

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