One area that the Buffalo Bills have been weaker in the last couple of seasons is the defensive line. The Bills have not been able to produce a defensive line like they once did in 2013-2014 with Mario Williams, Kyle Williams, Marcell Dareus, and Jerry Hughes. It is a unit that has had consistent rotation players up until Ed Oliver came to town, who became a rising star last season. However, part of the reason why Oliver has grown in the last two years is because of DaQuan Jones.
Since arriving in Buffalo, Jones has been a solid run-stopper in the middle of the defense. However, a torn pec in Week 5 last season took him out until Week 17 which hurt the Bills against the run. His presence makes a huge difference as far as scheme, which we will now get to see under Bobby Babich. Jones won’t put up the big numbers, but he does take on the double teams that will allow the linebackers to fly in and make the plays.
One great advantage that Jones has going into 2024 is the star emergence of Ed Oliver, who is coming off a career year last season without Jones for most of the season. Putting the two tackles on the same line, knowing their high potential, Bills fans are in for a big treat when they take the field.
Before free agency, the Bills and Jones agreed on a two-year extension. Bringing Jones back is a key factor into building up the run-defense, along with helping the development of rookie DeWayne Carter. As long as Jones stays healthy, he will once again do the tough work while others shine. If Jones is able to create a pass rush as well, it will be an added bonus to this defense who already has a pressuring defensive tackle in Ed Oliver.