Buffalo Bills: Shaq Lawson looking to finally show what he’s capable of
By Paul Taylor
After an indifferent start to his Buffalo Bills career, defensive end Shaq Lawson is aiming to prove he belongs in the NFL.
When the Buffalo Bills drafted Shaq Lawson in 2016, they were as surprised as they were excited. After all, he was not expected to still be available when they picked 19th overall in the first round.
In terms of excitement, there was a lot to like about Lawson. Rated a four-star recruit, he played three years for Clemson.
However, it wasn’t until his junior year in 2015, when the 23-year old finally showed his true form. During that season, he finished among the nation’s leaders in tackles for a loss (25.5) and sacks (12.5).
Lawson also ranked second in the nation among defensive linemen, with 17 “stuffs”. At the end of the year, he was a Consensus All-American, first-team All-ACC selection.
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The Lake Wylie, South Carolina native was predicted to have a positive impact on a Rex Ryan defense lacking discipline. However, almost immediately there was conflicting accounts regarding a shoulder injury.
The Bills received some criticism for picking a player and not disclosing the injury issues and claiming he wouldn’t miss much time. In the end he underwent shoulder surgery, missed all of training camp and wasn’t activated until Oct. 2016.
Finally on the field, it didn’t take long for Lawson to announce his arrival. In just his second game, against the New England Patriots no less, he recorded his first career sack, along with two hits, a couple of hurries and three total tackles.
On the whole though, Lawson’s impact was limited. He finished his rookie campaign with two sacks, one stuff, one pass defense, a fumble recovery and 13 combined tackles in 10 games, albeit with just one start.
More was expected from the defensive end in his sophomore season and he was certainly given the opportunity, after being named a regular starter. However, despite making some improvements, he still didn’t quite have the desired impact.
Lawson went on to register 33 combined tackles, four sacks, two pass defenses, three stuffs, one forced fumble and a fumble recovery in 10 starts (11 overall games). However, his season was then brought to an untimely end with an ankle injury, which placed him on the injured reserve list.
As such, the former Clemson start enters his third year, with questions still surrounding what he is capable of achieving at the NFL level. At least he now seems to have more control over his weight, which was an issue, especially during his rookie year.
For his part, Lawson accepts he still has a lot to prove, but sounds prepared for the challenge. As reported by Josh Reed of WIVB, he said:
"“Alright it’s the third year, I’m a former first round pick, it’s time for me to show why I got drafted in the first round. It’s time to do my job and not let these Bills fans down and the coaches down.”"
At least Lawson is doing everything possible to improve his chances for success. Again reported by Reed, he said:
"“Since I got cleared with the ankle injury I’m doing everything right. I took care of my body, I’m eating right and doing everything a pro does to be successful.”"
In theory, Lawson will once again return to the starting lineup, opposite Jerry Hughes. As per Erik Turner of Cover1, he is the ideal base end in defensive coordinator Leslie Frazier’s 4-3 scheme.
However, the key words are ‘in theory’. There is no denying Lawson’s potential, but can he produce on a more consistent basis?
At some point, potential will become wasted talent if you don’t step up your game, whether it be in the NFL or professional sports in general. We now wait to see which direction Lawson’s career turns in his third year with the Buffalo Bills.
Next: What now for the offensive line?
What kind of season are you predicting for Lawson? Is 2018 the year he finally shows the Buffalo Bills what he’s capable of, or will he soon be moving on to pastures new? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.