These Surprise Bills Player Helped Their Roster Chances With Strong Play Against Browns

The Buffalo Bills improved to 2-0 on the preseason as they defeated the Cleveland Browns on the road in Week 2. It was a game that got off to a slow start after the two teams were forced to head to the locker room for roughly an hour due to a lightning delay.

Buffalo had to stop midway through their opening drive, but had no problem picking back up and scoring a touchdown to take a 7-0 lead. They struggled defensively on the opening drive, allowing Cleveland to tie it up at seven.

From there, it was all Buffalo as they wound up winning by a score of 31-7. Of course, the outcome in the preseason isn't the main focus. Instead, it's all about players fighting for a spot on the roster. That said, here's a look at every player who improved their odds of making the 53-man roster this weekend.

Kani Walker, CB

Buffalo Bills cornerback Kani Walker tackles Cleveland Browns running back Raheim Sanders. | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

He was a stud in Week 1 against the Panthers, and that was the case once again in Week 2 against the Browns. Walker has been praised for his coverage, even recording a pick against Carolina.

This week, he showed he's willing to get physical as he delivered a hard hit on Raheim Sanders to force a fourth down on the opening drive. He still showed off his coverage skill, even recording a pass breakup to start the third quarter, knocking down a Deshaun Watson pass intended for Malachi Corley.

Trent Sherfield, WR

Buffalo Bills wide receiver Trent Sherfield catches a pass as Cleveland Browns cornerback Tre Avery defends. | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Trent Sherfield made an 18-yard reception right before the weather delay, but made sure to pick up where he left off once the teams were back on the field. Sherfield was targeted on the first snap following the delay, and again hauled it in, this time for a 17-yard gain. He finished with 54 yards on four receptions on four targets, making sure to put himself in play for a spot on the 53-man roster.

Ian Wheeler, RB

Buffalo Bills running back Ian Wheeler runs with the ball against the Carolina Panthers. | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Ian Wheeler was one of the more impressive players on the field in Week 1 against the Panthers after rushing for 41 yards and a touchdown on seven attempts.

This week, he was just as impressive, running hard while showing no hesitation to seek out contact. Wheeler ended his day with 56 yards on 14 carries. He also showed he can be a weapon in the passing game with 21 yards on two receptions.

Ja'Mori Maclin, WR

Buffalo Bills wide receiver Ja'mori MacLin makes a catch in the fourth quarter against the Carolina Panthers. | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Late in the first half, Ja'Mori Maclin caught a 37-yard pass that was a dime from Kyle Allen. This led to a touchdown right before the half, giving the Bills a 14-7 lead. After a Tyler Bass field goal, Maclin made another big play, catching a pass over the middle of the field from Shane Buechele and turning it into a 71-yard touchdown.

Shane Buechele finds Ja'Mori Maclin and he takes it 71 YARDS

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Te'Cory Couch, CB

Buffalo Bills defensive back Te'Cory Couch makes a catch during Minicamp at Highmark Stadium. | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Kani Walker isn't the only defensive back who made noise on Saturday. Former UDFA Te'Cory Couch turned heads as well, recording three tackles and one pass breakup. What really stood out, however, was his leaping interception off Deshaun Watson in the third quarter. The Bills don't have elite depth at cornerback, which is why players such as Walker and Couch have hope following their showing this preseason.

Frank Gore Jr., RB

Shane Buechele hands the ball off to Buffalo Bills running back Frank Gore Jr. against the Carolina Panthers. | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Ian Wheeler wasn't the only running back who impressed in this one, with Frank Gore Jr. also standing out. Gore showed off his speed and quick burst, ripping off an 11-yard run followed by an 18-yarder in the third quarter. Gore finished with 54 yards on nine attempts. It won't be easy for either Wheeler or Gore to make Buffalo's roster, but they're both making it difficult to waive them.

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