In a groundbreaking move, Ed Oliver, the dynamic defensive tackle of the Buffalo Bills, has secured his future with a lucrative four-year contract extension.
This monumental deal solidifies the Bills’ defensive line and propels Oliver into the ranks of the highest-paid interior linemen in the league. A game-changer on and off the field, Oliver’s impact is set to reverberate through Buffalo.
Bills extend Ed Oliver contract with $68 million deal
The Buffalo Bills have secured the future of their defensive line by signing a four-year contract extension with defensive tackle Ed Oliver worth $68 million.
Before reaching an agreement on this extension, the Bills faced uncertainty in their defensive tackle position beyond the 2023 season. General Manager Brandon Beane expressed his desire to avoid entering the 2024 season without a signed defensive tackle during the team’s rookie minicamp.
Beane mentioned the possibility of considering extensions during training camp, assessing the performance and commitment of the players to determine who would be the most suitable candidate for an extension.
Although the team did not address the position in the draft, they have a group of experienced veterans, including DaQuan Jones, Jordan Phillips, and Tim Settle.
Ed Oliver, 25, was initially set to play on his fifth-year option in the 2023 season. However, this contract extension provides him with long-term security and demonstrates the Bills’ faith in his abilities. Oliver had a mixed performance in the 2022 season due to a right ankle injury early on, causing him to miss several games.
Guaranteed $45 million for the Houston-based defensive tackle
With the $45 million guaranteed, Oliver now joins the ranks of the highest-paid interior defensive linemen in the league. According to ESPN Stats & Information research, this places him among the top eight for guaranteed money in that position.
Coach Sean McDermott shared that he is confident in Oliver’s abilities. The team’s senior defensive assistant and defensive line coach, Eric Washington, emphasized the importance of Oliver’s ability to anticipate and play ahead of the play rather than merely reacting.
Washington noted that Oliver has shown increased confidence and vocal leadership during the offseason, indicating his growth and commitment to the team.
“When you have the kind of talent that Ed has, you gotta understand situations, that could mean the difference in separating yourself from the opponent,” said Washington.
With this contract extension, Ed Oliver joins tight end, Dawson Knox, as the only remaining members of the Bills’ 2019 draft class still on the roster. The Bills are now well-positioned to maintain a strong defensive line with Oliver’s presence, ensuring stability and continuity for the seasons to come.
