Newly signed Buffalo Bills linebacker Akin Ayodele will not dress for the Bills' season opener Sunday against the Miami Dolphins, according to head coach Chan Gailey. With just two days to prepare for the opener, it was unlikely that Ayodele would have been versed enough in George Edwards' defensive scheme to contribute.
With fellow linebackers Reggie Torbor (chest) and Antonio Coleman (hamstring) also ruled out for the opener, the Bills will play just seven healthy linebackers in their new 3-4 scheme. Chris Ellis will start in place of Torbor at outside linebacker. Aaron Maybin will continue to rotate in as a situational pass-rusher. Keith Ellison and Arthur Moats will back up starting inside linebackers Paul Posluszny and Andra Davis. Keep in mind, also, that the Bills have been using strong safety Bryan Scott in a traditional linebacker responsibility in nickel packages.
Buffalo used 4-3 looks frequently throughout the preseason, and with numbers low at linebacker to start the season, don't be surprised if more of those looks are folded into the game plan.
Free safety Jairus Byrd, who practiced all week after missing most of the preseason following groin surgery, was cleared to play on Sunday.
H/T: Mark Ludwiczak, CBSSports.com