Overview
- The Bills hired Jim Leonhard from the Denver Broncos to take over play-calling and begin a base 3-4 defensive overhaul.
- At OTAs Leonhard outlined role shifts that move outside linebackers to play like defensive ends, tuck traditional ends inside, and align tackles beside the nose tackle.
- Leonhard told reporters he plans to give Ed Oliver more freedom to chase one-on-one matchups and create more interior pressure if Oliver returns to full health.
- The coaching staff sees veteran additions Bradley Chubb and C.J. Gardner-Johnson as fits for the new scheme and as pieces that can accelerate defensive improvement.
- Early work at OTAs is focused on installing terminology and testing competitions such as Dorian Williams for a starting linebacker spot while trainers monitor recovery timelines ahead of training camp.