The Buffalo Bills enter the 2024 NFL season with high expectations and a revamped roster, aiming to prove that parting ways with key veterans like Stefon Diggs, Jordan Poyer, and Micah Hyde won’t derail their championship aspirations. With quarterback Josh Allen leading the charge, the Bills are set on demonstrating their continued contender status. However, their challenge has become a bit more daunting.
In a blow to their defensive line, the Bills have been dealt a setback just hours before their Week 1 clash with the Arizona Cardinals. Veteran defensive end Dawuane Smoot, a key figure on the edge, has been ruled out for the season opener due to a toe injury. Smoot, who was listed as questionable earlier in the week, was downgraded to out on Saturday, according to Charean Williams of Pro Football Talk.
The loss of Smoot, who has played 99 games over his career and brings valuable experience to the defensive front, comes at a critical time. To fill the void, the Bills have promoted defensive end Kameron Cline and offensive lineman Will Clapp from the practice squad. Cline, who has appeared in five career games since entering the NFL in 2020, will make his debut with the Bills if he takes the field on Sunday.
The absence of Smoot is particularly impactful given his track record. Over his career, Smoot has accumulated 23.5 sacks and been a steady presence on the defensive line. His loss places added pressure on the rest of the defensive unit, especially with new defensive coordinator Bobby Babich making his regular-season debut in the booth. Babich, who was appointed in January, faces the daunting task of coordinating the defense in his first year at the helm.
As the Bills look to navigate this early adversity, the spotlight will be on their defense to rise to the occasion and support an offense that is still finding its rhythm. The Bills’ ability to adapt and overcome this injury could be pivotal as they look to establish themselves as a formidable force in the 2024 season.
