Buffalo Bills 2024 Preview

The 2024 NFL season is right around the corner, and fans are buzzing with anticipation. One team that always finds itself under the microscope is the Buffalo Bills.

After a season that left them questioning what could have been, the Bills are back and ready to prove they belong among the NFL’s elite. But can they maintain their status, or will the changes on both sides of the ball be too much to overcome?

Let’s dive into the key insights for the Bills’ upcoming season.

Key Insights and Team Overview

The Bills are coming off a solid 2023 campaign, but they’ve faced significant roster changes that could impact their performance in 2024. Here’s what you need to know:

Offensive Changes

Wide Receiver Shake-Up:
- Stefon Diggs and Gabriel Davis Departed: Diggs and Davis were crucial to the Bills’ passing attack, combining for over 1,800 yards and 16 touchdowns last season. Their departure leaves a significant void.
- New Additions:
  - Curtis Samuel: Coming over from Washington, Samuel is a reliable but less explosive option compared to Diggs.
  - Keon Coleman: The rookie wideout brings potential, especially in contested catch situations, but it’s a big ask for a first-year player to fill such large shoes.
Josh Allen‘s Challenge:
- Without Top Targets: Josh Allen is now tasked with leading the offense without his top two receivers from last year. Allen threw for over 4,000 yards and 29 touchdowns in 2023, but his 18 interceptions were a concern. Can he cut down on turnovers while elevating a less experienced receiving corps?
- James Cook‘s Expanded Role: Cook had a breakout year as a runner, rushing for over 1,100 yards. He’ll need to continue that momentum and also contribute more in the passing game to help offset the losses at wide receiver.
Offensive Line Stability:
- Four Returning Starters: The O-line remains mostly intact, which should help Allen stay upright and give the running game some consistency. The biggest question mark is replacing center Mitch Morse, who was a key figure in protecting Allen.

Defensive Adjustments

Secondary Overhaul:
- Goodbye to Jordan Poyer and Micah Hyde: The Bills lost both starting safeties, who were essential to their defensive schemes. Their replacements, Mike Edwards and rookie Cole Bishop, will have big shoes to fill.
- Cornerback Shuffle: Tre’Davious White‘s departure is less of a blow since he only played four games last season. However, the secondary remains a bit of a question mark with so many changes.
Pass Rush Questions:
- Von Miller‘s Health: After going sackless in 12 games last season, the Bills are hoping for a bounce-back year from Miller. Without Leonard Floyd, who led the team with 10.5 sacks, the pressure is on for guys like Ed Oliver and Greg Rousseau to step up.
Linebacker Stability:
- Matt Milano‘s Return: Milano missed most of last season due to injury, and his return could be a game-changer for the defense. If he can stay healthy, the Bills’ linebacker corps could be one of the best in the league.

Season Outlook

With all the changes, the Bills’ floor and ceiling for wins in 2024 are pretty far apart. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:

Win Total Floor: 8 Wins
- Why? The departure of key playmakers on offense and the secondary could lead to more inconsistency. If the offense struggles to find rhythm and the defense can’t replicate last year’s success, the Bills could end up with a disappointing record.
Win Total Ceiling: 11 Wins
- Why? If Josh Allen can elevate his game, cut down on turnovers, and get strong contributions from his new weapons, the Bills can still be a force in the AFC. A healthy Von Miller and Matt Milano on defense could also make a big difference.

Final Thoughts

The Buffalo Bills are in a transition year, with plenty of potential but also significant risks. They have the talent to compete at a high level, but it will require Josh Allen to play at an MVP level and for the defense to adjust quickly to its new pieces. Whether they hit their ceiling or fall to their floor will depend on how well they adapt to these changes.

Key Points Recap

Josh Allen faces a big test without his top two wide receivers from 2023.
Curtis Samuel and Keon Coleman will need to step up as new targets.
The offensive line is stable, but the center position is a question mark.
The secondary has undergone major changes, with both starting safeties gone.
Von Miller’s health and the performance of the pass rush will be crucial.
Matt Milano’s return from injury could significantly boost the defense.
Win total projection: 8 to 11 wins, depending on how well they adjust to roster changes.

Buckle up, Bills fans—this season could be a wild ride!

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