Buffalo Bills have a new, special weapon that can help Josh Allen and the offense in some of the biggest moments of a game
The Buffalo Bills added an intriguing player that can help the offense get even better at one of the league’s most unstoppable plays.
It’s a new era in Buffalo with Joe Brady at the helm and the Bills offense should end up as the main beneficiaries of the switch from Sean McDermott to the first-time head coach.
The Bills made some notable additions on that side of the ball during the offseason, but there’s one under-the-radar move that could really help Josh Allen and Co. come out on the winning side of some high-leverage situations.
And that’s the addition of fullback Ben VanSumeren. The former Philadelphia Eagle came into the league as a linebacker, but has pretty much converted into a fullback over the course of his first three seasons. The idea is he’ll replace the highly-effective Reggie Gilliam, who departed for the AFC East-rival Patriots.
It’s a lowkey, yet highly-valued role that can really help the Bills convert short-yardage situations in crucial moments during a game. And, there’s also the fact VanSumeren has inside knowledge of the Tush Push, which help Buffalo make its own version even better.
“But fullback/linebacker Ben VanSumeren has a real chance to fill a notable vacancy. The Bills this offseason lost their only fullback, Reggie Gilliam, to the Patriots — a departure that will be felt in the locker room as much as in short-yardage situations…
“… Also of note: Buffalo is a tush-push team, making VanSumeren’s past experience in Philly that much more compelling.”
Tim graham
The Athletic
VanSumeren suffered a season-ending injury during the Eagles’ season-opening kickoff last year, but is fully recovered. He brings an interesting skill set to the table and has had plenty of good moments playing fullback. For instance, just go back and watch the Eagles’ Week 7 matchup against the Giants in 2024. VanSumeren helped spring Saquon Barkley for a 41-yard run that would’ve gone the distance if not for a good play by Tre Hawkins III.
He then helped Kenneth Gainwell break off gains of 14- and two-yards on the next two plays. In all, VanSumeren’s efforts allowed the Eagles to gain 58 yards on the ground through three consecutive plays.
VanSumeren is the kind of addition that won’t stand out on paper, but can really hit home during games and that’s what matters most. He should provide quality snaps on a consistent basis and it’ll help the Bills in some of the biggest moments of a game.
And when considering we’re talking about a team that’s been unable to get over the hump, that’s a big deal.