Buffalo Bills defensive tackle Star Lotulelei has reportedly filed a volunteer opt out for the 2020 season, according to NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo.
Lotulelei was scheduled to make just north of $8 million this season, with $4.5 million of that guaranteed. He’ll now receive a $150,000 stipend instead and the final two years of his contract are pushed to the 2021 and 2022 season.
With Lotulelei now out of the mix for the Bills defensive line that has added significant depth inside and outside, free agent acquisition Vernon Butler will likely assume a much larger role in 2020.
Here’s what Bills general manager Brandon Beane said about the line in April.
“Competition and versatility is probably the two words I would say up front. We got experience as well,” he said. “I like some of these pieces. … I think (defensive tackle) Quinton Jefferson can go inside and can go outside. Vernon can play a one or a three. So as many guys as you can get just like on the o-line that can play more than one spot, that does help us. You know we like to rotate eight-nine guys in the game. Not every team does it that way that’s just, that’s our style.”
The Bills have built their line to be able to withstand a substantial loss like Lotulelei will be. He’s started all 16 games the past two seasons for Buffalo and was likely their Day 1 starting one technique when camp opened.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to [email protected].