It’s expected that the Bills’ $17 million starter will be replaced by a rookie
The Buffalo Bills' preseason performance against the Pittsburgh Steelers on August 19 lacked commendable aspects, particularly in the offensive line.
A notable exception in the performance was rookie O’Cyrus Torrence.
O’Cyrus Torrence was chosen as the 59th overall pick in the 2023 NFL draft by the Buffalo Bills.
This selection raised questions about the future of the Bills' current right guard, Ryan Bates.
Ryan Bates had signed a significant four-year, $17 million contract the previous year and earned a respectable grade of 61.8 from Pro Football Focus for his 2022 NFL season.
Spectrum News 1 reporter Jon Scott expressed doubts about whether Bates would maintain his starting position with the arrival of O’Cyrus Torrence.
O’Cyrus Torrence's impressive performance in the first two preseason games suggests he may become the starting right guard.
After the Bills' 27-15 loss to the Steelers, Sal Capaccio of WGR 550 believed Torrence had likely secured the starting right guard position.
Ryan Talbot of NYUp.com also praised Torrence, noting his exceptional performance as the only standout offensive lineman.
Talbot concluded that the competition for the right guard position seemed to have come to an end.