5 bold predictions for Buffalo Bills in 2021

2. Ed Oliver will lead Buffalo in sacks

Perhaps the biggest surprise of the offseason to date for the Bills is their front office’s decision to pass on the chance to add a big-time pass rusher in free agency. The team didn’t have a ton of cash to spend on the open market, but the fact that no Bill notched more than five sacks a season ago could have tempted the team to go all-in on a new pass-rusher.

One potential explanation for Buffalo’s decision to pass on adding a pass rusher in free agency is because they expect to see internal improvement. Ed Oliver is one member of the Bills’ defensive front who could be a breakout candidate. He’s not a defensive end who can collapse the pocket on the perimeter. Instead, he’s an inside guy who can use his quickness to produce pressure right up the gut.

The 2019 first round pick’s talent level has never been in question. For Oliver it’s always a question of whether or not his motor and technique can manage to match his athleticism. If that happens for him in 2021 the end result could be double-digit sacks for the former Houston Cougar.

A breakout season like that would be a revelation for the Buffalo defense. Oliver has the talent to make that happen, but he needs to finally commit to fulfilling his full potential on the field.