Between now and the end of August, TGS will offer up a quick snapshot of every NFL team heading into the 2016 regular season. Today, the Buffalo Bills.
2015 in a nutshell: They avoided a second consecutive non-losing season for the first time this century, finishing 8-8. Quarterback Tyrod Taylor boosted the offense, but a defense that was elite in 2014 really struggled as they extended their playoff drought to 16 seasons.
Why 2016 could be different: Second year for head coach Rex Ryan, who is joined by brother Rob. And maybe they won’t be docked a league-high 1,249 penalty yards this time.
Major additions: Highly-touted top draft picks Shaq Lawson and Reggie Ragland, both of whom should play major roles in the front seven as rookies.
Major losses: They retained veteran offensive linemen Cordy Glenn and Richie Incognito but parted ways with veteran defenders Mario Williams and Leodis McKelvin.
Breakout watch: Young stud receiver Sammy Watkins had 1,000 yards and nine touchdowns last season, but by his standards he’s yet to break out. Watch for that to happen in Year 3.
Position to watch: The defensive line was a major, major strength two years ago. But Williams struggled in 2015 and is now gone, and Lawson is dealing with a shoulder injury. After leading the league with 54 sacks in 2014 they had only 21 in 2015, so they’ll need vets Jerry Hughes and Marcell Dareus to step it up, along with the youngsters.
Prediction: Even with Tom Brady suspended early, this is the Patriots’ division. But if Taylor can keep it rolling, they’ll contend for a playoff spot.
