Michael Hoecht has very limited snaps in a Buffalo Bills uniform, yet he has found a way to become a fan-favorite already. His tenure in Buffalo did start out a little rough as after news broke that the plan was for him to sign with the Bills, Brandon Beane reported that Hoecht, along with defensive tackle Larry Ogunjobi, were going to be suspended for the first six games of the season last year.
Hoecht and Ogunjobi had both violated the league's PED policy, and the Bills defense were set to start the season without them both. After six weeks went by, the Bills got them back but Hoecht's time with the team was limited as he only played in two games due to tearing his achilles last year against the Kansas City Chiefs.
However, Hoecht managed to impress Bills Mafia with his motor that he showed off against the Carolina Panthers. In his one full game of last season, Hoecht recorded 3 total tackles along with 1.5 sacks and a forced fumble. Hoecht managed to get half a sack the following week against the Chiefs, but his season ended after tearing his achilles.
When it comes to an achilles injury, players have to be very careful rehabbing it because any small mistake could lead to big consequences. Luckily for Bills fans, Hoecht seems to be ahead of schedule based on what Joe Brady told the press during mandatory minicamp.
Joe Brady gives great update about EDGE Michael Hoecht
According to Andy Young from Spectrum News 1, Brady spoke with the media and said that the Bills “almost have to slow down Michael Hoecht in his comeback from a torn achilles tendon last November.”
Hoecht was seen participating in position drills during minicamp, per Young, which is a great sign for him potentially being ready for Week 1. Although nothing is guaranteed, having Hoecht on the field in the rotation is great for the defense.
Joe Brady says the #Bills almost have to slow down Michael Hoecht in his comeback from a torn achilles tendon last November.
— Andy Young (@AndyYoungTV) June 10, 2026
Hoecht hit the next stage in his return to action, participating in positional drills at mandatory minicamp. #BillsMafia pic.twitter.com/NnlM5fpKmk
With the new defensive scheme under Jim Leonhard, the Bills are going to be dependent on rushing the quarterback and playing with an aggressive mindset. Hoecht showed Bills fans a glimpse of what kind of player he can be, but now they need him to stay healthy and be part of this defensive turnaround that the team desperately needs.
With training camp coming up next month, Hoecht will have the chance to show the coaching staff that he can contribute right from the start, but it is up to the staff to make sure that he is 100% ready to go from a big injury not even a year ago.
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