The Buffalo Bills’ pass rush has been a major talking point early in the 2024 season. After some questions arose during the offseason, particularly with the departure of Leonard Floyd to the San Francisco 49ers, the defensive line has stepped up in a big way. Now, just two games into the season, it’s clear that the Bills have a top-tier pass rush.

One of the standout performers so far has been Greg Rousseau, who has elevated his game to a whole new level in his third year. Rousseau’s size, athleticism, and technique have been on full display, and he has become a dominant force on the edge. He has been consistently getting pressure on opposing quarterbacks, collapsing pockets, and forcing errant throws. His ability to disrupt plays has been key to the Bills’ defensive success so far.

What’s even more encouraging is the performance of Von Miller, who is looking better with each passing week. After battling through a torn ACL and it’s recovery, Miller has returned to form and has been an impact player in crucial moments. His combination of experience and explosiveness is something every team would love to have, and the Bills have been using him smartly, allowing him to be fresh and effective when it matters most. While it’s still early in the season, Miller’s continued improvement bodes well for Buffalo, as he has the ability to take over games and mentor younger players like Rousseau in the process.

While the Bills’ pass rush was somewhat of a question mark heading into the season, it’s quickly becoming one of the team’s strongest units. The combination of Rousseau’s development, Miller’s resurgence, and the consistent play of Ed Oliver in the middle has transformed the defensive line into a nightmare for opposing offenses. Through the first two weeks, the Bills have generated a significant amount of pressure, consistently putting opposing quarterbacks in uncomfortable situations.

This pressure has translated into results, with the Bills registering six sacks through two games. But perhaps even more impressive than the sack numbers is the sheer amount of disruption the defense is causing. The constant pressure is forcing quarterbacks to get rid of the ball early, leading to off-target throws and turnovers. Buffalo’s defense has already snagged three interceptions, tied for fourth in the league, and many of those have come directly as a result of the pass rush forcing bad decisions.

One area where the Bills could still improve is their run defense, which has been solid but not spectacular. However, the run defense has done enough to put opposing offenses in second-and-long and third-and-long situations, which is exactly when Buffalo’s pass rush is most dangerous. When teams are forced to throw in obvious passing situations, Rousseau, Miller, and company are able to pin their ears back and get after the quarterback, and they’re doing so at an elite level.

Looking ahead, the Bills will face the Jacksonville Jaguars in a prime-time matchup on Monday Night Football. The Jaguars’ offensive line will have its hands full trying to contain Buffalo’s pass rush, and if Rousseau and Miller continue to build on their early-season success, it could be a long night for Jacksonville. Rousseau’s size and power paired with Miller’s speed and experience create a lethal combination that few teams are equipped to handle.

It’s only been two weeks, but the signs are incredibly promising for the Bills’ defense. If Rousseau keeps playing at this level and Miller continues to improve each week, Buffalo could have one of the most dangerous pass rushes in the league. And in a conference loaded with top-tier quarterbacks, having a dominant pass rush will be critical to the Bills’ success as they push toward their ultimate goal—a Super Bowl championship.

Go Bills!