Opinion: Oliver is your guy at 3-tech, but give yourself options behind him

The Bills need to add multiple pieces at 3-tech.

The way Ed Oliver played in 2021, it’s pretty clear that not only is he going to continue receiving starter reps in 2022, but he’s in line for a big pay raise in the next 14 months. With that out of the way, the question of finding a platoon-worthy backup for him becomes the goal.

Financially speaking, I’d be surprised if the Bills spent a lot of money at 3-tech when they have Oliver playing 60% of the snaps. With bigger holes at 1-tech and pass rusher, they will need that money for those positions. That’s why I think a low-cost veteran will be paired with a draft pick.

The 2022 NFL Draft doesn’t have a ton of high 3-tech prospects, but a lot of draft-and-develop types. Adding one of them to be a healthy scratch throughout the season learning from a veteran free agent would be ideal.

Justin Zimmer, Buffalo’s free agent, could make a lot of sense here. He’ll be low-cost coming off his injury, he has a high motor, and can show the rookie the ropes while pushing Oliver. The only question is if he’ll be healthy enough for training camp after knee repair in mid-November.

Going into 2022 with Oliver, a developmental rookie, a low-cost veteran, and Zimmer on speed dial would be a pretty good situation for the Bills at the position, especially if they can improve the 1-tech and defensive end rooms at the same time.

Next Read

• All-22 Analysis: Ed Oliver is already the unquestioned starter
• Bills need bodies to back up Ed Oliver
• With fifth-year option, both sides will wait on new contract for Oliver
• Free agents at defensive tackle the Bills could add
• 2022 NFL Draft: Picking some depth options at 3-tech
• Opinion: Give yourself options behind Ed Oliver this offseason