The 4 Most Underrated Players on the 2024 Buffalo Bills Roster
Jakob Merkel
Reid Ferguson — Buffalo Bills, LS The 4 Most Underrated Players on the 2024 Buffalo Bills Roster
The Buffalo Bills have built a formidable roster over recent years and have become consistent playoff contenders. While stars like Josh Allen often grab headlines, several other players contribute significantly to the team's success but fly under the radar. Here are four of the most underrated players on the 2024 Buffalo Bills roster.
Matt Milano
Matt Milano is an ideal example of an underrated NFL player. Known for his exceptional tackling and playmaking abilities, Milano's breakout year was in 2022, where he recorded 99 combined tackles, 1.5 sacks, three interceptions, and a touchdown. Despite these impressive stats, Milano often does not receive the recognition he deserves by the national media.
In 2023, Milano faced a significant setback with a tibia fracture in his right leg, ending his season prematurely. Fortunately, no ligament damage affected his knee, which was a silver lining. Before his injury, Milano amassed 30 total tackles, one forced fumble, and two interceptions in just a few games. If extrapolated over an entire 17-game season, Milano was on pace to achieve 102 total tackles, seven interceptions, and three forced fumbles – a career-best projection.
The media largely overlooked the impact of Milano's injury on the Bills' defense last year. However, Milano is expected to return to full health this season, ready to showcase his talent again. His tackling technique is second to none, and while the media and analysts acknowledge his skill, they may not fully appreciate just how crucial he is to the Bills' defensive unit.
Another unsung hero of the Bills' defense is Terrel Bernard. Despite quickly being one of the most vital players, Bernard does not often get the spotlight. As a major leader and the designated replacement for Tremaine Edmunds, Bernard had major shoes to fill, and he has done so admirably.
The loss of Milano last season deprived fans of the opportunity to see the dynamic duo of Milano and Bernard together for more than a handful of games. Bernard was initially seen as a potential weak spot in the Bills' defense, but he has proven his doubters wrong with consistent, high-level play.
Bernard's leadership qualities and on-field performance make him a cornerstone of the Bills' defense. His ability to step up and perform under pressure, coupled with his often-overlooked contributions, solidifies his status as one of the most underrated players on the team.
While Quintin Morris is a name worth mentioning, Dawson Knox deserves recognition for his consistent and often underappreciated contributions to the Bills. The emergence of Dalton Kincaid, the 2023 first-round pick, shifted the spotlight away from Knox. Nevertheless, Knox remains a key player in Buffalo's tight end room.
Over the first four years of his career, Knox has been one of Josh Allen’s most reliable targets, amassing 149 receptions for 1,780 yards and 20 touchdowns. Although his production dipped last season due to injury and Kincaid’s arrival, Knox adapted by honing his traditional in-line tight end and blocker skills. Despite the increased competition, Knox would undoubtedly be a TE1 on at least half the league’s rosters.
Knox excels in both receiving and blocking roles, making him an invaluable asset to the Bills' offense. Even though he may no longer be the primary focus at the tight end position, Knox's talent, and reliability ensure that he will continue to play a significant role in the upcoming season, with more "angry runs" likely to come.
Long snappers rarely get the recognition they deserve, but Reid Ferguson is an exception worth noting. Ferguson’s consistency and reliability are unmatched – in fact, it’s hard to recall a single bad snap from him in any game, warm-up, or practice.
Ferguson’s role might not be glamorous, but it is crucial. A single lousy snap can change the outcome of a game, and Ferguson's flawless execution ensures that the Bills' special teams operate smoothly. His perfect performance record speaks volumes about his skill and dedication, making him an underrated but essential player on the roster.
The Buffalo Bills' success is not just a result of their star players but also the contributions of these underrated athletes. Matt Milano, Terrel Bernard, Dawson Knox, and Reid Ferguson each bring unique strengths to the team, often without the hype they deserve. As the 2024 season gets closer, keep an eye on these players who consistently make a difference, often where you don’t realize it.