Buffalo Bills 2021 training camp preview: Interior O-line

Buffalo Bills 2021 training camp is slowly approaching. The team will hit the field at the end of July.

Before then, Bills Wire will go position-by-position and breakdown each group ahead of the team getting after it.

Next up is Buffalo’s interior offensive line:

Depth chart

Bills center Mitch Morse. Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports

2021 roster:

The big storyline

Bills running back Antonio Williams (35) is congratulated by offensive guard Ike Boettger. Credit: Mark Konezny-USA TODAY Sports

Below the surface, the middle of Buffalo's offensive line is intriguing. Morse hasn't lived up to the big pay day he scored with the Bills a few years back, but like the rest of this unit... that doesn't mean it's been bad. (Although, he did restructure his contract). The word "steady" comes to mind. Still, that does leave some room for improvement, so does anyone potentially grab a starting spot in training camp? Between our three starters here, Ford is most likely the player to lose his place, as Morse has had the center spot locked down for an extended period now and Felicano is truly the heart and soul of the entire O-line. Ford's play has been inconsistent during his brief career, as has his ability to stay healthy.

Predictions

Bills offensive tackle Cody Ford. Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports

While Ford should have to secure his position on the depth chart this summer, one fact appears to be clear. The Bills really want it to work with him and he should see a great opportunity to lock his spot as a starting guard... albeit even just for the regular season opener. Perhaps down the road that changes. A secondary storyline in this position group will be Bates. For the past few seasons, he has grabbed up a roster spot because of his versatility to play every position on the line. But will that continue? Around him is some pretty good depth talent, and we'll predict the likes of Douglas or Lamp making the final 53-man roster over him. They have a lot more starting experience over Bates. Depending on how that goes, though... the Bills might just decide to trade one of Douglas or Lamp for a late-round pick. Buffalo general manager Brandon Beane loves that. Boettger should also take a depth spot after he filled in well for Ford in 2020 when he was injured. Boettger could also potentially factor into the starter battle.

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