The Buffalo Bills are heading into the offseason just a move or two away from finally breaking through to the Super Bowl. In recent years, they’ve come close to reaching the big stage, only to fall short. With Josh Allen leading a roster stacked with talent, the team is on the verge, but there are still areas that need addressing. As NFL free agency approaches next week, Buffalo decided to take care of business with one of their own first. The team handed defensive end Greg Rousseau a significant contract extension—four years, $80 million.
The move shows how much the Bills value Rousseau, but it’s sparked debate over whether he’s worth that kind of investment. Matt Verderame of Sports Illustrated wasn’t a fan of the deal, giving it a C- grade and laying out his concerns.
“While the signings of both Khalil Shakir and Terrel Bernard received high marks, this one carries more risk,” Verderame noted. “Rousseau is a solid player—he’s posted 25 sacks and 66 quarterback hits over his first four seasons—but he’s never had more than eight sacks in a single year. On a contending team, he’s more of a complementary pass rusher than the top guy.”
Verderame did point out there’s still reason for optimism, given Rousseau’s age and potential. “He’s only 25, so there’s time for him to develop,” he continued. “But with $54 million guaranteed—fifth-most among all defensive ends—that’s a big gamble based on what he’s produced so far.”
Rousseau’s 2024 campaign saw him suit up for 16 games, recording 53 tackles, eight sacks, three forced fumbles, one fumble recovery, and three passes defended.
