Buffalo Bills: Updated 53-man roster projections after minicamp
Defensive Line (10)
Defensive End: Jerry Hughes, Mario Addison, A.J. Epenesa, Greg Rousseau, Carlos Basham Jr., Efe Obada
Defensive Tackle: Star Lotulelei, Ed Oliver, Vernon Butler, Harrison Phillips
For the defensive line, I have the Buffalo Bills keeping six defensive ends but only four defensive tackles. I believe this possible with some of the versatility the defensive ends bring as the Bills could slide Carlos Basham Jr. or Efe Obada inside to rush from the defensive tackle position on passing downs.
The coaching staff has always rotated frequently along the defensive line so this combination is enough to still give them that flexibility. It also helps reduce the snaps of veterans like Jerry Hughes and Mario Addison, which should help improve their effectiveness.
On the interior, the biggest question is whether or not Harrison Phillips can take that next step and be more of a force as a one-tech while rotating with Star Lotulelei. If Phillips struggles, it wouldn’t be surprising to see him being one of the final cuts with him entering the final year of his rookie contract.