With Jordan Phillips now officially a member of the Arizona Cardinals, the Buffalo Bills needed to bolster their defensive tackle rotation. They’ve found their man, signing former Seattle Seahawks defensive lineman Quinton Jefferson. Per NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport, the team is lining up a two-year contract for Jefferson.
Jefferson, who played as a 3-4 defensive end for Seattle’s scheme, projects inside as a defensive tackle in Buffalo’s. The 6’4” 290-lb Jefferson can join the three-technique rotation with Ed Oliver, but has the versatility to play on the edge or as nose tackle in certain subpackages.
Originally a fifth-round pick in the 2016 NFL Draft, Jefferson’s career began from the bench. he worked his way into a starting role in his third season, and over the past two years, he’s appeared in 30 games, starting 24. In that time, he has 51 tackles, nine tackles for a loss, 6.5 sacks, five passes defended, and two fumble recoveries.
With Oliver, Jefferson, Star Lotulelei, Vincent Taylor, and Harrison Phillips, the Bills once again have a full complement of defensive tackles with starting experience. Check another box off the offseason needs checklist.