Can Sean McDermott rebuild the Bills' defense?

Things are shaking upfor the Bills in a big way this month. With the roster and staff turnover, even the small stuff feels brand new.Taron Johnson, a veteran nickel corner and a steady presence in the secondary, summed it up best: "It's definitely different. But it's exciting."

The Buffalo Bills have seen significant changes, with Josh Allen and Von Miller the only remaining team captains from last year's squad. Gone are the long-term staples like Tre'Davious White, Jordan Poyer, and Micah Hyde, who were part of the team when Sean McDermott took over in 2017.

These departures signal a new chapter for the Bills. Josh Allen has embraced the changes, making a conscious effort to build relationships with the new players. "I've been more intentional about sitting with different guys in the cafeteria and getting to know them and their families," Allen said. "I truly believe that having those relationships off the field pays dividends on the field."

Allen's efforts are echoed by McDermott, who recently organized a team-bonding day during OTAs. Players were split into groups and visited 12 schools in western New York, interacting with students in various ways, from chatting with high school athletes to participating in an elementary school reptile show. "I believe a big part of this is our players learning from the students and their questions," McDermott explained. "It's mutually beneficial for both sides."

Defensive focus amidst off-oield bonding activities

Despite these off-field bonding activities, the main focus remains on the field, particularly on the defense. The Bills added depth across the board in the draft, but McDermott has yet to decide who will call the defensive plays this year-himself or first-time defensive coordinator Bobby Babich. The decision will come during camp, with Babich getting a chance to practice with scripted sessions early on. A major question mark hovers over the potential return of Micah Hyde, who is contemplating retirement or a return to the Bills. Meanwhile, the team addressed the safety position by drafting Cole Bishop in the second round. Bishop will compete for a starting role alongside free-agent g Mike Edwards, who is currently sidelined with a shoulder injury, and re-signed Taylor Rapp.

The Bills also picked up cornerback Daequan Hardy in the sixth round, primarily as a returner. The cornerback position appears stable with Christian Benford and Rasul Douglas projected as starters and 2022 first-round pick Kaiir Elam providing depth. At linebacker, the Bills added Edefuan Ulofoshio in the fifth round, bolstering a position hit hard by injuries last season. Matt Milano continues to rehab from a season-ending injury, with limited on-field time alongside Terrel Bernard, the team's starting middle linebacker. McDermott mentioned that Milano is "on schedule" but likely won't be seen on the field until closer to training camp.

The draft also brought depth to the defensive line with DeWayne Carter (third round) and Javon Solomon (fifth round). Carter has already impressed, knocking down a during 11-on-11 drills. Questions remain about AJ Epenesa's growth after being re-signed to a two-year deal and Von Miller's ability to regain his former glory.

As the Bills navigate this new era, the blend of fresh talent and seasoned leadership aims to build on past successes while paving the way for future triumphs.