JUST-IN: Huge Blow As Bills Cut Ties With Veteran Defensive End Ahead of Division Showdown.

The Buffalo Bills are parting ways with veteran defensive end Casey Toohill, a move that could open the door for a rookie to take on a larger role in the defensive line rotation.

On December 17, the Bills announced Toohill’s release after he appeared in 13 games this season. His departure comes as part of a series of roster moves, which included the return of a rookie offensive lineman. While Toohill could potentially rejoin the practice squad, some analysts believe the Bills are ready to give his role to a rising rookie.

Toohill joined the Bills in the offseason to provide depth to their pass rush but struggled to make a significant impact. He played in the first 13 games of the season before missing the most recent game against the Detroit Lions due to a rib injury. Toohill recorded 14 tackles, one sack, and one pass deflection.

According to Ralph Ventre of SI.com, the return of veteran pass rusher Dawuane Smoot made Toohill’s position redundant. Ventre pointed out that in the win over the Lions, the Bills used starters Greg Rousseau and AJ Epenesa, with Smoot, Von Miller, and Javon Solomon coming off the bench. If Toohill clears waivers, the Bills may bring him back on the practice squad.

CBS Sports’ Chris Trapasso suggested that Toohill’s release could allow rookie pass rusher Javon Solomon to take on a bigger role, particularly after a strong showing against the Lions, where he even beat All-Pro candidate Penei Sewell.

Toohill’s release also created room for the Bills to bring back rookie offensive lineman Tylan Grable to the active roster after he spent time on injured reserve. Grable, the Bills’ sixth-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, impressed during the preseason and had been rising on the depth chart before an abdominal injury sidelined him in Week 3.

Grable’s return bolsters the Bills’ offensive line depth as they head into the final stretch of the season. Having already clinched their fifth consecutive AFC East title, the Bills are focused on securing a playoff spot and potentially making a Super Bowl run. Their remaining games against the New England Patriots and New York Jets will likely determine whether they can catch the Kansas City Chiefs for the No. 1 seed in the AFC.