The 2024 NFL season kicks off Sunday for the Buffalo Bills as they face the Arizona Cardinals. With a significant roster turnover during the offseason, the Bills will need key players to step up to secure a win at Highmark Stadium.
This year brings a fresh set of questions for the Bills, with changes in the secondary and receiving corps contributing to the uncertainty. Nevertheless, with Josh Allen at the helm, Buffalo remains a formidable team.
James Cook, now in his third year, is poised for a crucial role as the lead back. After a standout season with 1,567 scrimmage yards and six touchdowns, Cook is expected to carry a significant workload. With the potential focus on the run game due to concerns in the receiving corps, Cook will be essential in both rushing and receiving, averaging five yards per carry in his career.
Tight end Dalton Kincaid, who had a promising rookie season, is another key player to watch. He finished third in team receiving yards and second in targets last season. With the departures of Stefon Diggs and Gabe Davis, Kincaid will play a more prominent role and is expected to become a top-tier NFL tight end this year.
Defensive end Greg Rousseau, who impressed during the preseason with 2.5 sacks against the Pittsburgh Steelers, is poised for a breakout season. Alongside A.J. Epenesa, Von Miller, Ed Oliver, and DaQuan Jones, Rousseau will be a crucial part of a deep defensive line. His performance will be vital as the Bills look to boost their pass rush.
One of the most compelling stories this opening weekend is Damar Hamlin’s return as a starting safety. After his cardiac arrest incident against the Cincinnati Bengals in January 2023, Hamlin is stepping into one of the starting safety positions vacated by Micah Hyde and Jordan Poyer. Despite the significant changes in the secondary, Hamlin’s previous starting experience in 2022 and his promise from that season make him a key player to watch as he resumes his career.