Buffalo Bills: Grading each major offseason move

Nov 9, 2014; Orchard Park, NY, USA; Buffalo Bills defensive end Jerry Hughes (55) celebrates a sack against the Kansas City Chiefs during the second half at Ralph Wilson Stadium. Kansas City beats Buffalo 17 to 13. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports

Re-Signing of Jerry Hughes

The Buffalo Bills also came into the offseason wanting to re-sign one of their key defensive players. Jerry Hughes was one of the main cornerstones for the Bills’ impressive defense last season, and they were able to get him locked up to a new five-year, $45 million contract.

Hughes ended up recording 53 tackles, 9.5 sacks, and three forced fumbles during the 2014 season with the Bills.

Buffalo ended up ranking third against the pass and 11th against the run defensively, and want to keep that defense around for the 2015 season. Re-signing Hughes was a huge step in the right direction for them, and Rex Ryan has to be very happy with the talent that he has on the defensive side of the football this year. Hughes is just 26 years old, and is going to be a monster defensive presence for the next five years.

It will be interesting to see what type of numbers he puts up in 2015. Some players let their foot off the gas pedal a bit after getting a big payday, but Hughes can’t allow that to happen if he wants to take the next step into the “star” level among defensive players.

Jerry Hughes Contract Grade: B+

Next: Signing Disappointing WR Percy Harvin