The Buffalo Bills' defense is anticipated to be one of the league's top units this season, featuring young talents paired with established Pro Bowl players. However, the team faces significant challenges as they prepare for the upcoming year. The suspensions of defensive linemen Michael Hoecht and Larry Ogunjobi have raised concerns about the depth and effectiveness of the defensive line. Additionally, the Bills made a substantial investment in their defense during the draft, selecting six defensive players out of nine total picks, indicating a clear focus on strengthening this area.

On top of these suspensions, the absence of edge rusher Joey Bosa due to injury further complicates the situation. The combination of recent suspensions and injuries has led to a cloud of uncertainty hanging over the defensive unit, making it clear that despite their potential, performance and cohesion will heavily depend on how quickly the team can adapt to these setbacks.

The Buffalo Bills have made significant moves to fortify their front seven ahead of the new season, most notably acquiring superstar edge rusher Joey Bosa. Alongside him, they have brought in Larry Ogunjobi and Michael Hoecht. However, both Ogunjobi and Hoecht will face six-game suspensions due to performance-enhancing drug violations at the start of the 2025 season, raising concerns about depth. The Bills also drafted three defensive linemen in the 2025 NFL Draft to help address this challenge.

Sports Illustrated’s Gilberto Manzano suggests that a partnership with three-time Pro Bowler Za'Darius Smith could provide a strong solution for the Bills, despite Smith’s recent decline in performance. Integrating Smith into the roster could significantly bolster their defensive line, especially in light of the suspensions and increased reliance on rookie players.

The Buffalo Bills significantly revamped their defensive line during the first week of free agency with the acquisitions of Larry Ogunjobi, Joey Bosa, and Michael Hoecht. However, all three players will be sidelined for most of the offseason. Bosa is nursing a calf injury, while Ogunjobi and Hoecht face suspensions due to violating the league's PED policy. Hoecht acknowledged his mistake, stating he informed the Bills about his suspension before signing to ensure transparency. Despite the setbacks, when fit, Hoecht is expected to be a versatile asset for the Bills, contributing immediately upon his return.

Derrick Harmon, selected by the Pittsburgh Steelers as the 21st overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, has signed a four-year, fully guaranteed contract worth $17,973,604. This marks a significant milestone as he becomes the 20th first-round pick to ink a deal, ahead of the typical schedule for rookie signings.

The choice of Harmon, a defensive tackle from Oregon, raised eyebrows as many anticipated the Steelers would opt for a quarterback. With defensive tackle Montravius Adams released and Larry Ogunjobi departing for free agency, Harmon is poised to join the starting lineup alongside Keeanu Benton and the legendary Cameron Heyward.

The Buffalo Bills are positioned as strong Super Bowl contenders following an impressive 2024 season that nearly saw them conquer the Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC Championship. Quarterback Josh Allen, last season's MVP, remains pivotal to their success. The team bolstered its defense with key acquisitions including Joey Bosa, Larry Ogunjobi, and Michael Hoecht, while prioritizing defense in the draft with their first five picks. This strategic focus sets the stage for a serious Super Bowl run in the upcoming season.