Shaq Thompson Back for Buffalo | NFL News

0:00It's September 2nd. NFL News Today starts now. AI powered and game ready. I'm Cory with the story. The Buffalo Bills are bringing back veteran Shaq Thompson to their practice squad. And it's not just for his leadership. Head coach Joe Brady and General Manager Brandon Bean see him as a player who can still contribute on the field. Thompson was crucial last year, stepping into a big role due to injuries and showing he can perform at a high level. This move is significant because the bills are implementing a new defensive system that emphasizes versatility. They want a defense that can adapt and surprise opponents by changing up their formations. Thompson's ability to play multiple positions, whether on or off the ball, in space or in different schemes makes him a perfect fit for this. Philosophy. General Manager Brandon Bean highlighted Thompson's professionalism and intelligence, noting that even defensive coaches who had had met him before were immediately impressed. Thompson himself feels his body is ready for the season after missing the offseason programs

1:03and training camp, believing it allowed him to prepare, effectively for the long grind. Thompson isn't coming in expecting to be an immediate leader. He understands he needs to earn that respect by putting in the work with his teammates on the field. He acknowledges that missing early sessions means he has to build trust and establish himself with players he hasn't worked with as closely. For now, Thompson will start on the practice squad. The bills have the flexibility to elevate him to the active roster up to three times before they need to make a permanent decision about signing him to the main team.