Orchard Park, N.Y. (WGR 550) - One theme that’s been pretty evident this offseason by Buffalo Bills decision makers is doing more to keep quarterback Josh Allen healthy, and allow him to take fewer hits.
After signing guards Connor McGovern and David Edwards in free agency, they continued to add to the group in charge of that by drafting massive Florida guard O’Cyrus Torrence with their second round choice in the 2023 NFL Draft.
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The 6-foot-5, 330-pound, Greensburg, Louisiana native did not allow a single sack in college football, playing three years at Louisiana before transferring to Florida and starting 11 games in 2022 for the Gators. That’s even more impressive considering he faced some of the nation’s top defensive linemen while playing for the Gators in the SEC.
During his introductory Zoom call with the Buffalo media after being drafted 59th overall on Friday, Torrence said playing in the SEC has prepared him well for the next level because of the different body types and strength of players he’s had to face.
That includes Georgia All-American Jalen Carter, who was held to just one assisted tackle when the two teams played in October.
Not only did Torrence not allow a sack throughout his college career, he wasn’t called for a single penalty last season either. That's an indication he plays with sound technique.
Torrence will come to Buffalo as a guard, but he said he’s able to play tackle, if needed. He’ll represent immediate competition for starter Ryan Bates, or wind up a swing interior lineman, giving the Bills more depth and flexibility as they continue to give their star quarterback more protection.
That's something Torrence is excited about being a part of.
"I'm very much looking forward to blocking for Josh Allen,” he said. “What offensive lineman doesn't want to do that?"
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