Joey Bosa to Begin 2025 on the Bench? Buffalo Bills’ Bold Defensive Strategy Turns Heads
The Buffalo Bills made a massive splash in the 2025 NFL offseason by acquiring Pro Bowl edge rusher Joey Bosa on a one-year, $12.6 million deal following his release from the Los Angeles Chargers. The move electrified fans and sent a clear message: Buffalo is all-in on making a serious Super Bowl push this season.
However, early predictions suggest Bosa may not be in the starting lineup when the season kicks off.
According to Bleacher Report’s Matt Holder, Bosa could begin the 2025 campaign as a rotational piece rather than a starter, with the Bills opting to manage his workload after an injury-riddled 2024 season. Holder noted, “Epenesa will have to fend off free-agent signing Joey Bosa, who Buffalo might want to keep on a pitch count to begin the season.”
Injury Concerns May Limit Early Impact
Although Bosa earned a Pro Bowl nod last year, he struggled with multiple injuries that limited his snap count. The Bills are likely to take a cautious approach with their new defensive weapon, prioritizing longevity over immediate full-time action.
That said, don’t mistake a bench role for a lack of impact. Bosa is expected to play a pivotal part in high-leverage situations, especially on third downs and in crunch time. His presence alone can shift offensive game plans and open up lanes for fellow pass-rushers.
A.J. Epenesa: The Unexpected Starter
Veteran edge rusher A.J. Epenesa, who had a quietly strong 2024 campaign with six sacks and eight tackles for loss, is currently projected to start opposite Greg Rousseau. Epenesa’s growth and familiarity with the defensive scheme give him an edge, but with Bosa breathing down his neck, competition is bound to bring out the best in both players.
Mentorship & Depth: Buffalo’s New Defensive Identity
Beyond stats and starting roles, Bosa’s true value may lie in his ability to mentor younger defenders like Epenesa and Rousseau. His playoff experience and locker room presence bring intangible benefits to a squad hungry to finally get past the Kansas City Chiefs, who once again ended Buffalo’s postseason run in the AFC Championship.
Head coach Sean McDermott now has the luxury of depth and flexibility across the defensive front. With Von Miller in decline and Bosa in town, the Bills could roll out creative pass-rushing packages, making them one of the most unpredictable defenses in the league.
Eyes on the Super Bowl: Can Bosa Be the X-Factor?
While the benching narrative may grab headlines, the Bills are likely playing the long game with Bosa. As the season progresses, expect his snap count to rise—especially when it matters most. With Super Bowl aspirations, Buffalo is betting on Bosa being fresh and dominant when January football rolls around.
Joey Bosa may not start Week 1, but his role with the 2025 Buffalo Bills is far from minor. Whether it’s disrupting quarterbacks or guiding the next generation of pass-rushers, Bosa’s impact could be exactly what Buffalo needs to finally get over the hump.
