Bills GM Brandon Beane named the surprising defensive player he believes could take the biggest step forward under Jim Leonhard’s new scheme.
When Brandon Beane was asked which player could benefit the most from the Buffalo Bills' defensive changes this season, he didn't hesitate with his answer.
"I'll give you a name," he said during an appearance on ESPN's This is Football. "It's not going to be a top name, but Javon Solomon."
While Buffalo's defense will feature several new faces and a new coordinator in Jim Leonhard, Beane believes the third-year edge rusher may be uniquely positioned to take advantage of the new scheme.
Solomon entered the NFL with an impressive collegiate résumé but spent much of his rookie season learning behind edge rushers like Von Miller and Joey Bosa, and now Bradley Chubb. Rather than being thrust into a major role immediately, he had the opportunity to develop while watching established veterans.
Beane pointed to that experience as an important part of Solomon's growth. Beane also believes that foundation, combined with Leonhard's defensive philosophy, could create more opportunities for Solomon to make an impact this season.
The Bills won't ask Solomon to replace any one player on the defensive front. Instead, they'll look for him to carve out a larger role within a rotation that has long been a hallmark of Buffalo's defense.
"[He's a guy] that's been a savant trying to pick up the nuances of this game," Beane added, stating that he views him as an eventual dedicated pass rusher for the team. "I think he's gotten off to a really good start for us. I'm not saying a starter or anything like that, but a guy that I think the scheme change probably helps the most on our defense."
Since being a fifth-round pick out of Troy in 2024, Solomon has played in 31 of a potential 34 regular-season games. While he's had some defensive snaps, he's primarily spent time on special teams. When given the chance on defense, he has shown flashes of potential with 30 tackles and three sacks.
If things go the way Beane hopes, he could see that number flip a bit in 2026.
