The best Bills player who’s discussed the least is Jerry Hughes, which, on the surface, is why he’s the club’s most vital x-factor for the 2016 season.
The soon-to-be 28 year old will be one of the defensive centerpieces for Rex Ryan’s defense, entrusted with the distinction of primary edge-rusher on the overwhelming majority of his snaps.
We often hear about Ryan’s defense being a “hybrid,” not exactly a 3-4 nor a 4-3. That’s true. Remember, also, that the NFL is in “nickel” — an extra cornerback — about 65% of time now anyway.
But at its core, Ryan’s scheme gives most of its players typical 3-4 responsibilities, and outside linebackers are the obvious play-makers in that front.