3 free agents the Buffalo Bills could still add to improve offensive line
By Kevin Devine
David Edwards looks to rebound from injury in 2023
The next player is one that the Buffalo Bills actually had in for a visit in former Los Angeles Rams guard David Edwards. He missed most of the 2022 season due to twice being placed into the NFL concussion protocol. He was designated to return by the Rams in November, before being shut down for the remainder of the season. Still just 26 years old, Edwards hits free agency at an inopportune time given his injury history and the depth of the current free agent class.
Edwards was a four-year starter for the Rams with experience at both guard spots after being a late-round draft pick, and will be looking to re-establish both health and value in 2023. He will likely be available on a short-term deal, probably settling for just one year with an eye toward returning to free agency next offseason at 27 years old.
Edwards is not someone the Buffalo Bills should count on to be a starter, but with five established linemen already projecting to be starters, he makes sense for them as a multi-positional backup and rotational piece. Skill-wise he may be the top remaining free-agent, and with size, tools and a history of excelling in both pass and run blocking could add a level of versatility that the Bills currently lack.
Edwards earned just $2.79 million last season, and likely won’t receive much of a raise from that. Given the Buffalo Bills salary cap situation, he could provide a starting-caliber backup on a short, affordable contract and be a steal late in free agency.