Bills sign safety Jordan Poyer to practice squad, reuniting after Dolphins stint: "The reunion was first reported by NFL reporter Jordan Schultz."
The Buffalo Bills have signed veteran safety Jordan Poyer to their practice squad, marking a noteworthy reunion with the player who was instrumental in the team's resurgence over the past several years.
Why it matters: Poyer's return is significant for the Bills as they reassess their safety depth, particularly with second-year player Cole Bishop slated to start alongside veteran Taylor Rapp.
- Poyer brings extensive experience and leadership to a position that has faced scrutiny this offseason.
- His familiarity with the system and previous success in Buffalo can provide immediate benefits to the defense.
What's new: After being released by the Bills in March 2023, Poyer signed a one-year, $2 million contract with the Miami Dolphins before returning to Buffalo.
- During his time with the Dolphins, Poyer recorded 98 tackles and played 96% of the team's defensive snaps in 2021, showcasing his durability and effectiveness on the field.
- This signing mirrors the Bills' decision to add former teammate Micah Hyde to their practice squad last season.
By the numbers: Over 12 seasons in the NFL, Poyer has established a solid resume, recording:
- 24 interceptions
- 904 tackles
- 12 sacks
- 57 passes defended
- 9 forced fumbles
These statistics underscore his ability to impact games defensively while providing valuable insights for younger players.
Yes, but: While Poyer is a proven asset, questions remain about his health, especially after he missed five games last season due to injury.
- Having only missed nine games in the past eight seasons indicates his overall resilience, but the Bills will need to monitor his fitness closely moving forward.
What to watch: As training camps approach, keep an eye on how Poyer integrates into the current defensive scheme under coordinator Leslie Frazier.
- The Bills operate primarily out of a 4-3 base defense, which typically emphasizes strong safety play—Poyer’s skill set aligns well with these requirements.
The bottom line: Jordan Poyer's experienced presence on the practice squad could bolster the Bills' secondary as they aim for another deep playoff run, making this reunion both timely and pivotal for the team's aspirations.
