It is game day for the Buffalo Bills, as they’ll take on on Los Angeles Rams tonight in the kickoff to the 2022 NFL season. What are the Bills coaches saying about tonight’s season opener with the roster and depth chart set? 

“…Still Going Through The Process” At the Second Cornerback

The Bills have listed first-round rookie Kaiir Elam as starting cornerback opposite Dane Jackson. But don’t pencil him in to start just yet. Defensive coordinator Leslie Frazier said they are still in the process of figuring out who will start at the second cornerback spot but didn’t rule out fellow rookie Christian Benford getting playing time on Thursday night. McDermott echoed this statement Tuesday, stating they are not ready to name a starting corner. Could both cornerbacks see time? It wouldn’t be the first time Sean McDermott and Leslie Frazier rotated cornerbacks throughout a game. Don’t be surprised if both rookies get into Thursday’s game. Both defenders had great preseason and training camps, especially Benford, one of the most surprising players in the preseason.

Not the first time the Bills have rolled with a rotation at CB.

I'm in the camp we continue to see much more of the same from the back 7 that we have seen for years and we'll see a bunch of off coverage zone from this unit.

I'm comfortable with a rotation until Tre returns. https://t.co/j9Sefg1MID

— Aaron Quinn (@AaronQuinn716) September 6, 2022

Running Back Touches to “Unfold Naturally”

The Bills’ depth chart has James Cook listed as the third running back, but given his draft status, Bills fans will be eager to see him with the ball in his hands. Offensive coordinator Ken Dorsey said Jame Cook’s role will “unfold naturally” throughout the game. What this means remains to be seen, but we can assume that, despite his depth chart status, he will be active on gameday. The Rams’ defense is known for their “two high” safties that try to limit downfield throws for the quarterback. Look for Buffalo to involve Jame Cook in the underneath passing game to try to draw the safeties down and open up the downfield passing attack.

Additionally, Dorsey has discussed the importance of yards after catch throughout the preseason. This is a stat the Bills finished 18th in a year ago. Getting the ball into his hands could serve to improve this area. 

Injuries

The Bills roster seems healthy, as can be going into Thursday’s game. Jordan Poyer, Isaiah McKenzie, and Tim Settle are all on track to play, according to Sean McDermott on WGR. The only question mark is Quintin Morris has not practiced in the first two practices of the week.