Predicting the future of the Buffalo Bills 2023 offensive free agents
G Cody Ford
Cody Ford has been a disappointment considering his draft status. A tackle in college, many figured Ford would shift well to the guard position in the pros. However, Ford has struggled nearly in every position he has played in his career. Additionally, he has gotten ample chances to show he can perform at the NFL level, with almost 30 starts to his name.
Verdict: Go
Honestly, I am not even sure Ford makes it past training camp. Buffalo brought in some veterans at the guard position, and Ford will have to show something we have not seen in previous years to be considered for the Bills’ roster this season and in future ones.
G Rodger Saffold
A Former All-Pro and Pro Bowl guard Rodger Saffold came to the Bills after being one of the highest regarded interior linemen on the open market. At age 34, Saffold has 157 starts and has been considered one of the better guards across the NFL for almost a decade. A significant upgrade for the Bills’ offensive line, Saffold should start next to left tackle Dion Dawkins and center Mitch Morse for the Bills.
Verdict: Go
Saffold is 34 years old, and although offensive linemen seem to last longer in the NFL than most other positions, Buffalo only signed Saffold for one season, likely with the intention of finding a younger, more long-term option at the guard position.
G Ike Boettger
Ike Boettger has spent his entire career with the Buffalo Bills earning 17 starts over the first four seasons of his career. A torn Achilles late last season means Boettger will not start the season anywhere close to ready to plan. However, he could become helpful down the stretch for Buffalo if they endure injuries across the offensive line.
Verdict: Stay
Even if Boettger does not play this season due to injury, the Bills would likely bring him back to compete for a roster spot next season.
G/T David Quessenberry
David Quessenberry started all 17 games he played in for the Tennessee Titans last season. Quessenberry was a member of the Titan’s offensive line group responsible for the 5th best rushing attack in football. Quessenberry has experience at guard and tackle, making him a potentially valuable backup for Buffalo due to his versatility.
Verdict: Stay
Although Quessenberry is on a one-year deal, Buffalo could see potential in his versatility. With questions surrounding last season’s depth options, Cody Ford and Ike Boettger Quessenberry are in a prime position to show some value for the Bills. Quessenberry could easily play his way into a second year with the Bills this season.