The Buffalo Bills announced this week that they are elevating defensive tackle Eli Ankou and wide receiver Jalen Virgil from the practice squad to the active roster for Sunday’s game. This move provides the team with depth in key positions, addressing both the defensive line and receiver corps as they head into another crucial matchup. Here’s a closer look at the impact of each player and what this decision means for the team.
Eli Ankou: Adding Depth to the Defensive Line
Eli Ankou, a 6-foot-3, 325-pound defensive tackle, is known for his physicality and ability to anchor the interior of the defensive line. Originally signed as an undrafted free agent in 2017, Ankou has had stints with multiple NFL teams, including the Cleveland Browns, Dallas Cowboys, and Indianapolis Colts. His journeyman experience has equipped him with adaptability, making him a reliable plug-and-play option for the Bills.
Ankou has been part of the Bills’ practice squad since last year, where he’s had time to integrate into the team’s defensive schemes. His elevation suggests that the Bills are looking to strengthen their interior defense, especially against the run. With several defensive linemen dealing with injuries or workload concerns, Ankou provides the rotation needed to keep the starters fresh and maintain a solid front. His size and strength should help clog up running lanes, forcing opponents to rely on the passing game—a strategy that favors the Bills’ strong secondary.
Ankou’s ability to make an impact on limited snaps could also relieve pressure on star defensive linemen like Ed Oliver, giving the team a deeper rotation. This elevation is likely to be situational, but if Ankou performs well, he could potentially earn more game-day activations in the future.
Jalen Virgil: Speed and Special Teams Contributions
On the offensive side, wide receiver Jalen Virgil brings an element of speed and versatility to the Bills’ wide receiver group. Virgil, a rookie out of Appalachian State, was initially signed by the Denver Broncos as an undrafted free agent before joining the Bills. Known for his 4.3-second 40-yard dash speed, he possesses the athleticism to stretch the field and open up passing lanes for quarterback Josh Allen.
While Virgil may not see a large number of offensive snaps, he is likely to contribute immediately on special teams, where his speed can be a major asset. His elevation indicates that the Bills are looking for a spark in their return game or additional options in kick coverage. Special teams coach Matthew Smiley has emphasized the need for disciplined and explosive play in this phase, and Virgil’s skill set aligns well with these goals.
If called upon offensively, Virgil could provide a deep-threat option to keep the defense honest. His presence might also create mismatches in three- and four-receiver sets, complementing the talents of players like Stefon Diggs and Gabe Davis.
The Bigger Picture
With these elevations, the Bills are showcasing their commitment to flexibility and depth across all units. As the season progresses and injuries mount, being able to draw from a well-stocked practice squad can be crucial. Ankou’s experience and physicality in the trenches, combined with Virgil’s speed and potential in both the passing game and special teams, provide the Bills with targeted depth.
By promoting Ankou and Virgil, Buffalo is not only addressing current needs but also assessing the potential of these practice squad players for future contributions.
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