The Buffalo Bills lost their first preseason game of the year to the New York Giants this weekend by a score of 34-25. It was a surprisingly entertaining game that included a Ray Davis extra point and a few highlight-worthy plays on offense.
While Bills fans shouldn't lose any sleep over a preseason defeat, there were a few key takeaways from the first semi-real action of the year.
Players will move up and down the depth chart and establish roster spots in the coming weeks. This test won't solidify anything, but a few players stood out from the crowd.
Winners and losers from Bills' preseason loss
Winner: Ty Johnson
Is there a more valuable third-string running back in the league than Ty Johnson? He's one of Josh Allen's favorite receiving targets, and he reminded fans of his ability as a runner this weekend. Johnson ran the ball three times for 26 yards, including a first-down carry with a big stiff arm in the second quarter.
As James Cook continues to sit out, Johnson is looking more and more capable in this offense.
Loser: James Cook
Speaking of Cook, he might have lost the most in Buffalo's preseason opener. He's still in the middle of a contract dispute and decided not to play this weekend. Sean McDermott made it known after the game that he wanted Cook to play, but settled for having him participate in warm-ups.
There's no doubt that he's a quality running back, but as Ray Davis and Ty Johnson prove their competence, Cook is beginning to look less necessary for the team's future.
Winner: Tyrell Shavers
Tyrell Shavers might not be the star receiver that Bills fans crave, but he certainly made an impact in the team's first preseason game. He had two catches for 70 yards, including a bomb from Mitch Trubisky late in the first half.
As McDermott mentioned in his postgame press conference, Shavers will have to prove that he can contribute on special teams to truly determine his value. Even with an impressive preseason performance, the young receiver's roster spot isn't safe.
Loser: Brandon Codrington
When you only play one role in the NFL, you can lose your job in a heartbeat. Former undrafted free agent Brandon Codrington is at risk of seeing his spot as a kick returner slip away.
Codrington is a backup defensive back as well, but most of his work last season came as a return man. With veteran Laviska Shenault Jr. now on the roster, he may have become expendable. The Bills rotated through returners against the Giants, and Codrington failed to stand out with one kick return for 22 yards and one punt return for four yards.
Winner: Joey Bosa
The Bills might be asking a lot of Joey Bosa later in the season, but at this point, it's a win just to see him out on the field healthy. Bosa has dealt with injuries throughout his career, even extending into his short time in Buffalo.
If he can stay healthy, the veteran pass rusher could make a big impact for the team later in the season. He didn't make any game-changing plays against the Giants, but it was good to have him as an active participant.
Winner: Jordan Hancock
Rookie defensive back Jordan Hancock was all over the field on Saturday. He had three tackles and an interception that was taken away due to a penalty. Hancock's intensity stood out as he seemed to consistently find a way to get to the football.
The fifth-round pick isn't expected to play a major role this season, but he might force his way onto the field if he continues his preseason form.