We have just two preseason games left before we learn who will be on the Buffalo Bills’ final 53-man roster for the regular season. Over these two games, the coaching staff will have to start penciling in starters and roster spots before making it official, if they haven’t already.
This is the perfect time for any under-the-radar players to shine and show why they deserve to suit up on gamedays in the regular season. Last week’s preseason game against the Giants, there were a lot of highs but a great amount of lows as well. It’s a new week but instead of being at home, the Bills will be in Chicago to take on the Bears.
There are four players that Bills fans should be keeping a close eye on, as all four of them could potentially lock up a roster spot if they shine on Sunday night.
4 Bills who could lock up roster spot vs. Bears in Week 2 preseason game
LB Joe Andreessen
This kind of feels like it’s already a lock, seeing as how Joe Andreessen was on the roster last year and has been very impressive throughout the summer. Last Saturday against the Giants, he was tied for the second most total tackles with five (along with Cam Lewis) and he had one behind the line of scrimmage.
If Andreessen can continue his productivity, it would be nearly impossible not to consider him a lock for the final roster for Week 1.
WR Tyrell Shavers
If Tyrell Shavers doesn’t make the final roster, I will be very surprised. He can be a deep threat, while also playing inside the numbers. He’s shown flashes here and there. Against the Giants, he had a massive 58-yard reception that helped put the Bills in field goal range to get three points before the end of the first half.
You could make the argument for both sides on him making the final roster. However, if he has another highlight reel and has a big impact against the Bears, the Bills can no longer ignore the idea of finding him a roster spot.
CB Ja’Marcus Ingram
It seems like the Bills will need the extra help in their secondary, whether it’s at cornerback or safety. Whether it’s because of inconsistent play or injuries, the Bills always seem to be signing defensive backs or calling them up from the bench.
Luckily, Ja’Marcus Ingram is no stranger to the Bills and has familiarity with the defense. Despite the Bills going heavy in the secondary this offseason, Ingram still has a fighting chance at earning a roster spot and this game against the Bears could help improve his chances.
WR Laviska Shenault Jr.
Much like Shavers, Laviska Shenault Jr. is a versatile wideout who is also a contributor on special teams. In the first game, Shenault had just one catch for 17 yards. However, he averaged 31 yards per kick return on special teams.
The Bills’ coaching staff values versatility and unless Shenault completely disappoints to the point where it’s unforgettable, he has the upper edge to take a roster spot from someone else who may deserve it more.