ORCHARD PARK, NY – The day Bills Mafia has been whispering about in hushed tones has finally arrived. Shaq Lawson, the fiery defensive lineman and Buffalo’s prized first-round pick from the 2016 NFL Draft, is back in the fold. Signed to the practice squad on Tuesday morning, this marks Lawson’s third tour of duty with the team that launched his pro career. And let me tell you, the entire AFC is officially on notice – the Bills’ defense is about to get a whole lot meaner.
For those who need a refresher, Lawson burst onto the scene as a Clemson standout, selected 19th overall by Buffalo in 2016. He quickly became a symbol of grit and tenacity, embodying the blue-collar ethos that defines Western New York football. Over his initial stint, he racked up sacks, disrupted backfields, and brought an infectious energy that rallied teammates and terrified opponents. Sure, his journey took him elsewhere – brief stops with the Jets, Dolphins, and most recently a one-game cameo with the Panthers in 2024 – but like a boomerang, he always finds his way back to One Bills Drive.
“We love Shaq,” head coach Sean McDermott said with a grin that could light up Highmark Stadium. “He brings great energy. He’s always been one of our tougher players, and he’s not afraid to mix it up.” McDermott’s words aren’t just coach-speak; they’re a testament to Lawson’s unbreakable spirit. At 31, he’s not the raw rookie anymore – he’s a battle-tested veteran who’s seen the highs and lows of the league. And right now, with the Bills’ defensive line ravaged by injuries, his return couldn’t be more timely.
Let’s face it: Buffalo’s D-line has been a patchwork quilt this season. Starters like Ed Oliver, Michael Hoecht, DeWayne Carter, and Landon Jackson are all sidelined on injured reserve, forcing rookies like TJ Sanders into unfamiliar roles on the edge – with predictable struggles. Veterans Jordan Phillips and second-year edge rusher Javon Solomon have been thrust into more snaps than ideal, and according to Pro Football Focus, they’ve ranked among the team’s lowest-graded defenders. It’s been a rough ride, but Lawson’s arrival injects a dose of reliability and ferocity that’s been sorely missing.
In his last go-around with the Bills in 2023, Lawson played 33.3% of the snaps and, while the stats didn’t always pop, his presence was felt in the trenches. He may not have lit up the box score, but his ability to draw double-teams and create opportunities for others is invaluable. Fast-forward to now: after being released by Carolina in late October 2024, Lawson’s been honing his craft, waiting for the call. And when it came, he answered with the same fire that made him a fan favorite.
“It’s always great to see ex-players come back, especially with the energy he brings to the table. Everybody loves him in the building,” McDermott added. “We’ll see how he rolls here and gets himself more acclimated to football shape.” Translation? Expect Lawson to ramp up quickly and potentially suit up as early as Sunday’s clash in Pittsburgh. The Steelers – and the rest of the AFC – better brace themselves.
Of course, Lawson’s not the only new face on the practice squad. The Bills also inked defensive lineman Morgan Fox a couple of weeks ago, a 31-year-old undrafted gem who carved out a solid career with the Rams and Chargers, amassing 15.5 sacks over the past three seasons. Fox brings his own brand of production, but Lawson’s history with Buffalo gives him an edge in familiarity and motivation. This isn’t just a roster move; it’s a homecoming with unfinished business. Lawson has 4.5 sacks in the last three years, but don’t let the numbers fool you – he’s got a score to settle, and the Bills’ playoff push is the perfect stage.
Bills fans, rejoice! In a league where loyalty is rare, Buffalo’s penchant for reunions – think Jordan Phillips and his multiple chances – is a refreshing throwback. Lawson’s return isn’t just about bolstering the line; it’s about reigniting the passion that propelled this team to AFC East dominance. As the postseason looms, the message is clear: Shaq is back, he’s hungry, and the AFC better watch out. The Bills are reloading, one familiar face at a time. Go Bills!