5 breakout stars to watch for Buffalo Bills in 2021

Ed Oliver

This is the name Bills fans hope makes the step towards success in 2021. Ed Oliver has star power after he was selected in the first round of the 2019 NFL Draft. He was solid last season, but 2021 is a very important year for him. The Bills will decide whether he deserves a fifth-year option that will make him a very rich man based on his performance in 2021.

His sack numbers dropped in 2020, but the Bills defensive line is expected to take a step forward in 2021. That will open things up for Oliver to beat blocks and get to the quarterback. The Bills added Efe Obada for depth on the line, and they are expected to address the other defensive tackle position in the draft.

Oliver’s underlying numbers looked good in 2020, but he’s only been solid and hasn’t really taking the next step forward. He had 35 QB pressures, according to Pro Football Focus. With other players on the inside taking away those double teams, he should be adding sack numbers to those pressures. If he’s able to make those sacks to stop a running back in his shoes in a big spot, it will only help him in the long run to building on what he already has as a player.

Oliver will be a key player for the Bills defense this season, and the coaches will look to make him a star. He could be downright disruptive with a little scheming and additions to his game. Oliver might become one of the better defensive tackles in the game. He has the talent. He just needs a little help.