Looking to see something different about the Bills in 2018? Take a closer look at the pass rush, something that they struggled at last season. This season shows more promise with the signing of Trent Murphy. Granted he’s not Von Miller, Khalil Mack or Joey Bosa but he’s an upgrade that will fit well into Sean McDermott’s system.
He missed all of last season with a torn ACL and also served a four-game suspension for violating the NFL’s performance enhancing substances policy. He went four weeks without pay so he is eligible for Week 1 for the Bills.
He broke out in 2016 with 47 tackles, 3 forced fumbles and 9 sacks. The Bills had a total of 27 sacks last season, led by Jerry Hughes and Shaq Lawson who had four each. While Murphy is more of 3-4 scheme player, it’s expected that he’ll adjust quickly to McDermott’s 4-3 scheme. He’s the type of player that the Bills need on defense. Bills fans did not see a physical defense last season with a player who set the tone in most games. Murphy has the chance to become that guy.
Murphy was one of the various defensive players brought into Buffalo by McDermott and Brandon Beane. Star Lotulelei and Harrison Phillips were brought into to stop the run which is their specialty. When it comes to pressuring the quarterback, Hughes and Murphy have the opportunity to become a dangerous pass rushing duo.
After signing a three year/ $21 mil deal with the Bills, Murphy will look to bounce back from a knee injury and serve as a key component in the Bills passing game. An experienced pass rusher along with Hughes can become very scary very quickly.
Brandon Ray is a Managing Editor for Full Press Coverage and covers the NFL and the Buffalo Bills. Follow him on Twitter at @brandon_ray79 and @FPC_Bills for Bills coverage.
