Michael Hoecht

Hoecht has the versatility to be more than a pure hand-in-the-dirt rusher, which fits this new defense nicely. His season hinges on whether the Achilles lets his quickness fully return.

Strengths: Versatility, edge experience, effort, scheme flexibility and rush-package value.

Weaknesses: Returning from a major Achilles injury and may need workload management early.

Hoecht is a projection until the Achilles is fully behind him, but the player is worth betting on. He had two sacks and a forced fumble in just two early Bills games before the injury, and his 2023 season showed he can bring both tackle volume and pass-rush value. I have him at a six because this is a real recovery test, not a minor absence. If the burst returns, he can be a versatile and disruptive piece of the front.

Strengths: He has a strong, versatile frame, active hands and a track record of producing tackles as well as sacks. Hoecht can rush from the edge, work inside on passing downs and play with a physical edge against the run.

Weaknesses: A torn Achilles is a serious concern for any rusher whose game needs burst and bend. His 2025 sample was only two games, so the comeback must prove both health and sustained effectiveness.