The Buffalo Bills squandered a historic performance from quarterback Josh Allen on Sunday, falling short in a 44-42 loss to the Los Angeles Rams, unable to prevent them from reaching the end zone.
The defeat significantly hurt Buffalo’s chances of overtaking the Kansas City Chiefs for the top overall seed, although the team remains focused on solidifying its playoff position after securing the AFC East title last week.
One analyst has proposed that the Bills should consider strengthening their defense by adding an All-Pro defensive back who is currently seeking his next opportunity.
Bills Urged to Sign Former Rival
Alex Ballentine of Bleacher Report recommended that the Buffalo Bills consider signing 31-year-old free agent cornerback Xavien Howard, formerly with the Miami Dolphins. Ballentine suggested that Howard’s addition could bolster the Bills’ defense, positioning them as serious contenders for a Super Bowl run.
“Perhaps this is the week that makes the Bills take a serious look at bringing in another defensive back,” Ballentine wrote. “This is a team that is dangerously close to putting together a Super Bowl run, but it just has a few tweaks to make.”
Ballentine emphasized that signing Howard would be “a fairly cheap way to attempt to push the Bills over the top at this point.” He also highlighted Howard’s strong performance in his most recent NFL season, where he allowed a passer rating of just 81.3 when targeted in 2023.
While the Bills’ defense has performed well for much of the season, they have struggled against high-powered offenses, conceding 44 points to the Los Angeles Rams and 35 to the Baltimore Ravens.
Bills Brought Back Another Veteran Defensive Back
The Bills have taken steps to strengthen their secondary by re-signing veteran safety Micah Hyde to the practice squad. Hyde had previously hinted at the possibility of returning to Buffalo, and general manager Brandon Beane had expressed openness to the idea.
Head coach Sean McDermott clarified that Hyde’s addition is intended to provide depth rather than address performance issues within the current safety group.
“Just to set expectations, Micah is in a practice squad role,” McDermott told ESPN. “We’re fully confident in Taylor Rapp, Damar Hamlin, Cole Bishop, and Kareem Jackson. They’ve all been doing a great job in their current roles, which won’t change. Micah’s here as part of the practice squad, and it’s good to have him and his family back.”
Hyde appeared enthusiastic about his new position, focusing on mentoring younger players. The Bills can also elevate Hyde to the active roster for up to three games in the regular season and potentially in the playoffs.
“I wanted to come back and contribute in any way I can,” Hyde said. “Whether it’s helping younger players navigate the NFL or assisting veterans on the field, I’m here to support. This is a new role for me, and I’m ready to embrace and excel in it.”
Leave a Reply