Terrel Bernard made a memorable entrance into the NFL Draft in 2022, highlighted by Kyle Brandt’s dynamic announcement of the Bills’ third-round pick, which turned out to be Bernard. Despite having Tremaine Edmunds and Matt Milano as established starters, doubts lingered about Edmunds’ return due to cap constraints. Ultimately, Buffalo’s decision to draft Bernard proved astute as Edmunds departed for the Chicago Bears.
The linebacker position posed significant uncertainty leading into last season’s training camp. Bernard appeared poised to win the starting role over Tyrel Dodson until a late hamstring injury sidelined him just before preseason. Dodson’s subsequent poor performance solidified Bernard’s status as the Week 1 starter without having played a preseason snap.
Fans can celebrate Bernard’s starting role, as he demonstrated immense value to Buffalo’s defense in his debut season. Filling Edmunds’ shoes, Bernard exceeded expectations with 143 tackles, 9 QB hits, 6.5 sacks, 3 interceptions, and 5 pass deflections.
A critical factor was Bernard’s ability to excel despite Milano’s absence for much of the season and DaQuan Jones’ role in absorbing double teams to create opportunities for linebackers. Bernard’s impact was sorely missed in the playoffs against the Kansas City Chiefs due to an injury sustained the previous week.
Entering his second season as a starter, Bernard has the chance to further develop, now under defensive coordinator Bobby Babich, who previously coached him as linebackers coach. With Milano expected back on the field for more games, Bills fans anticipate Bernard and Milano wreaking havoc on opposing offenses once again.
Projected stats for Bernard include 125 total tackles, 5 sacks, 4 interceptions, and 3 forced fumbles.
