Terrel Bernard

Opportunity emerged in the Buffalo linebacker corps in 2023, some of which was expected after the departure of Tremaine Edmunds. However, some was also unforeseen as Matt Milano was lost for a significant portion of the campaign. It was unclear who would emerge to fill those voids initially, but Bernard emphatically answered the call. After playing 109 defensive snaps in his rookie season, he increased that mark to 943 while also posting 143 total tackles in 2023. There is some risk that 2023 third-round pick Dorian Williams pushes Bernard for snaps, but initial reports suggest Williams will remain a reserve linebacker for the time being. There is downside in Bernard's projection as a result of Williams' presence, so monitoring the news during training camp will be important.

A 2022 third-round draft pick, Bernard didn't see a lot of action as a rookie, but it looks as though the 24-year-old will be counted on as a starting linebacker for the Bills in 2023 following the free-agent departure of Tremaine Edmunds. In 16 games (including one start) last season, the Baylor product was only in on 22 tackles, but if he's able to stick as a starter this year, the 6-1, 224-pounder could be a decent source of tackles for those in IDP leagues.