Preseason Week 2 will see the Buffalo Bills face the Chicago Bears, providing another chance for the Bills coaching staff to assess both individual abilities and how players respond in game situations. The matchup is considered a significant opportunity for several players who are either returning from injury or seeking to secure a spot on the roster.
Cole Bishop, a second-year safety, recently returned from a quad injury and may have his playing time limited. Despite missing important practice time for the second straight summer, Bishop needs to demonstrate effective communication with fellow safety Taylor Rapp and show his ability to read plays in the passing game.
Defensive end Michael Hoecht has been making an impact during recent practices, particularly in Buffalo’s pass rush. As a free agent addition, he is expected to maintain that level of performance during the game, especially since playing time could become more limited once the regular season begins.
Tight end Keleki Latu has drawn attention over the past week by scoring a highlight touchdown during a joint practice against Chicago. Continued strong performances could make him an option for either the main roster or practice squad.
Wide receiver Elijah Moore is also gaining notice as Curtis Samuel and Khalil Shakir remain out with injuries. Moore’s skills have made him a potential replacement, highlighted by his run-after-catch play on a tunnel screen in joint practice. Coaches are interested in seeing if he can continue to extend plays during tonight’s game.
Rookie defensive tackle T.J. Sanders has shown quickness at the line of scrimmage so far this preseason. His performance against established players like Pro Bowl guard Jonah Jackson and All-Pro Joe Thuney will be closely watched as an indicator of his potential contribution to Buffalo’s defensive front.
The Bills-Bears preseason game will be broadcast nationally on FOX at 8 p.m. EST.
