Corey

Liuget

Liuget’s absence is a hit to Buffalo’s defensive line depth. Also inactive are RB T.J. Yeldon, WR Duke Williams, TE Tommy Sweeney, OT Ty Nsekhe, OG Ike Boettger, and DB Dean Marlowe.

Liuget busted after signing a big deal with the Chargers a few years back, so he’s likely headed for a limited role along the defensive line, assuming he can make the Raiders roster on short notice. The defensive tackle went on a ton of visits this offseason, but he wasn’t able to walk away with a contract until two weeks before the season.

As The Athletic’s Joe Buscaglia points out, the Bills have been worried about their D-line depth. 29-year-old Liuget made three starts for the Raiders earlier this season. If he carves out a role in Buffalo, he will probably max out as a 15-20 snap player.

The 29-year-old had his 2019 option declined by the Chargers at the start of the offseason and has visited the Jaguars, Seahawks, and Giants in addition to Arizona. Liuget hasn’t been a difference-maker for multiple years after signing a big extension with the Bolts a few years back.

He visited with Seattle last week but left without a deal. Liuget should find a new team after the draft.

They also met with ex-Colts DL Al Woods. Liuget has been making the rounds the last few weeks but has yet to land a deal. He may have to wait until after the draft to resurface.

After the Chargers declined Liuget’s 2019 option, he became a free agent, but he’d be open to a reunion “if the money is right.” Chargers GM Tom Telesco also remains open to re-signing Liuget, but as long as it’s a lower salary since Liuget has missed time due to injury and suspension. Liuget tore his quad and underwent surgery in late November, but he claims that he will be 80-90% in just two more months.

He’ll become a free agent in March. Liuget has struggled with injuries and suspensions the last two years, missing 14-of-32 games. He’s hasn’t lived up to his contract when on the field, making it an easy decision to move on from his $9.5 million cap hit. Chargers GM Tom Telesco didn’t rule out re-signing Liuget at a lower salary.

He’s facing a 6-9 month recovery. Liuget will likely miss most of the Chargers’ offseason program (assuming he keeps his roster spot), but should be back in time for Week 1. Liuget totaled 14 tackles, 1.5 sacks and one forced fumble over 206 defensive snaps this season.

It is a tough break for a player who missed the first four games of the season due to suspension. Owed $8 million in salary and bonuses next year, Liuget will likely be cut or restructured this offseason.