Bills agree to terms with a do-everything defensive lineman capable of lining up all over the place
Buffalo decided to get a utility knife for the defensive line in free agency, bringing in Michael Hoecht, the former Los Angeles Ram that has played everywhere from defensive tackle, to edge, to linebacker, and has even dropped back into coverage.I'm curious to see how the Bills deploy him, but they got themselves an asset […]
Buffalo decided to get a utility knife for the defensive line in free agency, bringing in Michael Hoecht, the former Los Angeles Ram that has played everywhere from defensive tackle, to edge, to linebacker, and has even dropped back into coverage.
I'm curious to see how the Bills deploy him, but they got themselves an asset to help improve their defensive front, a key area that needs addressing.
At 6'4" 310 lbs, Hoecht has the size to play up and down the line. Los Angeles got so funky with him that they would occasionally line him up in coverage against the slot, they'd line him up all over the linebacker depth, at both ends, and at defensive tackle. That versatility is likely something that the Bills are excited to bring into the room while they sort out how best to deploy him.
Hoecht plays with a ton of juice and a very high motor, often making an impact on special teams as well, including blocking two extra points and a field goal last season. Bills fans should be thrilled about an athletic do-everything defender that can make his presence felt in a variety of ways. He finished the 2024 season with 56 tackles and 3.0 sacks. The Bills certainly aren't signing him for the pass rush upside.
This doesn't fully solve what the needs along the defensive line. Buffalo likely is still looking for a nose tackle and more high-upside pass rush help, but Hoecht is a great depth get that can contribute in multiple phases.
Buffalo still has work to do, but their two early free agency agreed-to deals with Josh Palmer and Hoecht fill direct holes on the roster and help make them a more dynamic and balanced roster than what they had last year.
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