Update on the Bills’ unrestricted free agents

Here is an update for each of the Bills who were unrestricted free agents entering this offseason. 

Bills defensive end Shaq Lawson. Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports

Signed with another team

Shaq Lawson

Lawson had his most successful season as a Bill last year, registering a career-high 6.5 sacks. He registered 108 total tackles and 16.5 sacks in his four years at One Bills Drive. A first-round pick in 2016, his fifth-year option was not picked up by Buffalo prior to this year.

However, the Bills will still see Lawson twice a year, as he signed a three-year, $30 million contract with the Miami Dolphins. Lawson was the final draft pick of former general manager Doug Whaley remaining on the Bills’ roster.

Jordan Phillips

Phillips had a breakout campaign in 2019, recording 9.5 sacks, third among interior defensive linemen behind the Rams’ Aaron Donald. He was a force in the middle of the line, causing havoc on opponents’ offensive lines. He recorded a career-high three sacks in Week 5 against the Tennessee Titans.

A fan favorite for his exuberant on the field, Phillips heads to Arizona after signing a three-year, $30 million contract with the Cardinals.

CB Kevin Johnson

Johnson was a depth cornerback for Buffalo last year. He played in all 16 games for the second time in his five-year career, recording 36 total tackles and five passes defensed. His veteran presence helped his earn a starting nod the Wild Card playoff matchup against the Houston Texans. Johnson saw some time in a rotation with Levi Wallace as Buffalo’s No. 2 cornerback.

Johnson reportedly signed a one-year $3.5 million contract with the Cleveland Browns.