The Buffalo Bills are piecing together their practice squad right now, and one name, Shaq Thompson, is already raising eyebrows after a veteran move to skip all of OTAs and training camp. It’s a bold play, but given how valuable these deep roster spots have become, Thompson’s immediate impact could be huge as the season kicks off. With practice squads now 16 players strong and allowing seasoned vets, these aren’t just prospects anymore, they are legitimate pieces ready to contribute for up to three games.
Greg Dortch Is the Bills’ Answer to a Problem That Won’t Quit
You wanna talk about fixing a headache? The Bills’ punt return game has been a mess for seasons, and Greg Dortch looks like he might be the guy to finally clean it up. Dortch, 28, just got released by the Lions after signing with them in March. But before that, he spent five years with the Cardinals, catching 145 of 191 targets for 1,310 yards and 10 touchdowns. What’s even wilder is that he played the last three of those years under Drew Terrell, who’s now the Bills’ receivers coach. Talk about a familiar face!
But it’s Dortch’s return game that really has the Bills’ attention. He returned 99 punts for an 8.9 average and 75 kickoffs for a 23.6 average with Arizona, all under special teams coordinator Jeff Rodgers, who is also now with Buffalo. They tried Ray Davis, but a muffed punt against the Steelers was a flashing red light. Even with five receivers on the 53-man roster, Dortch could get called up for good if he crushes it in the return game. This ain’t just a practice squad filler, this is a potential game-changer for a unit that desperately needs one.
Shaq Thompson’s No-Brainer Return Is a Masterclass in Timing
If you missed it, linebacker Shaq Thompson joined the Bills just last season and was, honestly, probably their most consistent linebacker. He racked up 56 tackles, a forced fumble, and a sack, mostly stepping in for an injured Terrel Bernard. So, when he came back to the team after skipping all the offseason work and training camp, it felt like a no-brainer. The guy fits in perfectly, and even with a new defense this year, his skill set just clicks.
We know Terrel Bernard is the definite starter at one spot, but he’s been battling injuries for two years and is dealing with it again this summer. Dorian Williams will probably start Week 1, and rookie Kaleb Elarms-Orr might even get a look, but the Bills needed a veteran presence. Thompson is that guy. He’s an ideal pickup for depth and immediate impact, and it’s clear the team knows what they are getting even after his late arrival. These players might be on the practice squad for now, but watch out, they’re ready to make noise as the season gets underway.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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