Free agent defensive tackle DaQuan Jones may have dropped that a hint that he's interested in returning to the Buffalo Bills for the 2024 season.
Jones was quick to celebrate the news of Marcus West's promotion to defensive line coach on social media. West, who served as assistant defensive line coach for both of Jones's seasons with the Bills, takes a step up to replace the well-respected Eric Washington, who left to join the Chicago Bears as defensive coordinator.
West, a former All-Conference USA defensive lineman for Memphis, began his coaching career in collegiate ranks. His journey included stops at Chattanooga, Minnesota and Charlotte.
Reposting the Bills' official announcement, Jones added "Hell yeah!"
"Congratulations to this man!" said Jones in a subsequent X post. "He’s going to be one of the best DL coaches this league has seen. His mindfulness is top notch and cannot wait to see his career bear fruit!"
The 32-year-old Jones has been an important piece on the interior of the Bills' defensive front since signing a two-year deal in 2022. Unfortunately, a torn pectoral injury limited his impact this past fall, causing him to miss the final 10 regular season games. The former Penn Stater fought his way back in time for the playoffs but had difficulty gaining traction against Kansas City's offensive line in a 27-24 divisional round loss on January 21.
In seven games prior to injury, Jones recorded five quarterback hits, 2.5 sacks and two tackles-for-loss against the run. The 2014 fourth-round draft pick has logged 139 NFL regular season appearances, including 133 starts.
With Ed Oliver as the lone defensive tackle under contract for 2024, the salary cap-strapped Bills are likely looking to bring Jones back at the right price.
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