Getty Image
Buffalo Bills Defensive Tackle Ed Oliver found himself in the midst of controversy after he bragged about taking out a Jets quarterback from a game.
This came about when Bills fans called for Oliver to be replaced by Jets star defensive tackle Quinnen Williams, sparking a heated debate among football enthusiasts.
The controversy unfolded on Instagram, where fans discussed Quinnen Williams’ ongoing contract negotiations with the Jets. In the comments section, Bills fans expressed their desire for Williams to join their team, suggesting that Oliver should be let go. They stated, “If he hits the market, move on from Ed Oliver, get him in Buffalo.”
https://twitter.com/nfldov/status/1659189807833305088
In response to these comments, Oliver himself chimed in with a boastful remark. Referring to a hit he made during Week 14 of the 2022 season on Jets quarterback Mike White, Oliver wrote, “Dang, I put the Jets QB out of the game. What more do you want, lol?”
The hit in question occurred on December 11, 2022, during a game between the Bills and the Jets. Following the game, White was taken to the hospital with a rib injury. The incident served as a painful reminder of the physicality and risks associated with playing professional football.
https://twitter.com/nfldov/status/1658937064673648644
Ed Oliver, who was selected as the 9th overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, has experienced both highs and lows throughout his career. While he has displayed potential and been a somewhat reliable presence on the Bills’ interior defensive line over the past four years, his performances have been inconsistent at times. Nevertheless, the Bills have shown confidence in Oliver’s abilities by exercising his 5th-option last year year to retain him for the 2023 season.
Standing at 6’1″ and weighing 287 pounds, Oliver is considered undersized for his position. However, his agility and quickness compensate for any physical limitations, making him an asset to the team. With 14.5 career sacks to his name in his first four seasons, Oliver’s performance has been solid, although some may argue that it falls short of the expectations set for a top 10 draft pick.
Regardless of the outcome, this incident serves as a reminder that players must exercise caution when discussing their actions on and off the field, as their words can have significant implications for their reputation and the public’s perception of them.