Bills Hit With Setbacks as NFL Season Nears
The Buffalo Bills have consistently flirted with Super Bowl contention in recent years, claiming the AFC East title five straight times. Despite their regular season dominance, the team has only reached the AFC Championship twice—and fallen short both times.
With hopes high for a breakthrough in the 2025 season, not everyone shares the optimism. The Athletic’s Mike Jones labeled the Bills as one of the most overrated teams heading into the upcoming season, predicting another year of unfulfilled Super Bowl aspirations.
Concerns Center Around the Defense
Jones pointed out that Buffalo enters the season with the third-best Super Bowl odds, trailing only the Eagles and Ravens. Quarterback Josh Allen will lead the team as the reigning MVP, and the Bills have posted six consecutive double-digit win seasons. However, Jones believes key issues could derail their campaign.
“There’s still uncertainty around James Cook’s contract situation,” Jones noted, referencing the two-time 1,000-yard rusher. “But the bigger concern is a defense that was hit hard by injuries in 2024 and may struggle again.”
Additionally, the Bills face personnel setbacks before the season even begins. Defensive linemen Michael Hoecht and Larry Ogunjobi are suspended for six games due to PED violations. Free agent addition Joey Bosa—seen as a vital piece for the pass rush—has already dealt with a calf injury, though he’s expected back for training camp. “Facing quarterbacks like Mahomes and Lamar Jackson with a shaky defense is a tough ask,” Jones wrote.
Draft Focuses on Defensive Rebuild
Buffalo has been let down by its defense in recent playoff runs—strong during the regular season, but faltering under postseason pressure. The front office aimed to patch those holes in the 2025 NFL Draft, investing heavily in defensive talent.
The Bills selected defensive tackle T.J. Sanders in the second round, defensive end Landon Jackson in the third, and defensive tackle Deone Walker in the fourth. Head coach Sean McDermott is hopeful the rookies can contribute quickly, especially with experienced veterans helping guide them.
“We’re really excited about those young guys,” McDermott said. “They’re integrating into a group with a mix of seasoned players and fresh talent. The defensive line is going to set the tone for us.”
While optimism remains within the organization, outside analysts like Jones suggest that unless the defense comes together, the Bills could once again fall short of their ultimate goal.
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