The Buffalo Bills aren’t short on veteran leadership. Whether it is coming from offensive superstars like quarterback Josh Allen or receiver Josh Allen, veteran stalwarts on the back end, or free agent acquisitions, Buffalo is trotting out a lot of established NFL talent.
In doing so, the Bills are one of the oldest teams in the league, and that comes with a different brand of locker room dynamics. An example of that came this week when running back Latavius Murray, the oldest player at his position in football, called a players-only meeting.
In doing so, he attempted to rally the troops and help them find a rhythm before a tough schedule down the stretch. At 5-4, Buffalo cannot afford to grow cold as the autumn progresses.
It seems that the meeting went well, with minimal rumors of discord between Bills. Another one of their critical veterans, center Mitch Morse, spoke to the media about Murray’s impact on Friday.
“Latavius has been doing this for a very long time at a high level,” Morse said. “A guy who commanded respect just by his demeanor and his ability to … be that consummate pro. He’s also very personable, easy to talk to. When you have a guy that kind of embodies all of those characteristics, you’re gonna have a guy that can bend the ear of a team.”
According to Morse, Murray’s message was appreciated. The Bills know that tripping over their own feet, particularly in a game they’re supposed to win, could be devastating to their playoff odds.
Murray has struggled this season, especially in the red zone, where Buffalo has tasked him with power through defenders and slithering into the end zone. Thus far, however, he has just two scores on the ground to go with 42 attempts and 147 yards. Murray has surely had an impact on the younger back, James Cook, but neither has been particularly effective between the tackles.
His playing time may be threatened by the recent signing of running back Leonard Fournette, but his value in the locker room could keep him on the roster.
“A guy who’s just been here for not even a whole year has assimilated into this locker room beautifully and taken a leadership role,” Morse said.
Murray’s impact on those around him could be showcased on Monday when the Bills host the mediocre Denver Broncos.
More must-reads: