The linebacker position is one that isn’t often discussed for the Buffalo Bills with Tremaine Edmunds and Matt Milano at the top of the depth chart. However, the team certainly seems to be doing their due diligence and according to Justin Melo met with linebacker Troy Andersen at the NFL Combine.
Andersen is an interesting player as he played quarterback, running back, and linebacker during his time at Montana State early in his career. In 2018, Andersen would have 1,195 passing yards, 1,412 rushing yards, and 21 rushing touchdowns.
He would move to the defensive side of the ball full-time in 2019 and in his final season with the Bearcats was named Big Sky Defensive Player of the Year. He would finish the season with 147 total tackles, 14 tackles for a loss, two sacks, and two interceptions.
Buffalo Bills always value versatility when looking at players
There is no question that the Buffalo Bills have always valued versatility when looking at their players. However, that has usually meant a player who could play tackle or guard on the offensive line or defensive end or defensive tackle on the defensive line.
Andersen is different in that he probably primarily plays linebacker in the NFL but could be used as a running back on occasion, given the right situation.
For the Bills’ defensive scheme, they want players who show athleticism and the ability to move sideline to sideline. Andersen certainly brings that, along with good size at 6’4″ and 235 pounds.
While versatility is important, it also creates a challenge in that Andersen is somewhat inexperienced at the position. He would likely need some time to get up to speed on learning the position.
If the Buffalo Bills were to draft Troy Andersen, he could potentially become the replacement for A.J. Klein, who has been that primary backup/third linebacker the past few seasons but was released this offseason.