Los Angeles Rams Tom Pelissero of NFL Media has reported that the Buffalo Bills have reached an agreement with defensive lineman Michael Hoecht on a three-year contract, with a potential value of up to $24 million.
Hoecht made a massive leap from playing defensive tackle to start his career to playing on the edge — he lost nearly 40 pounds in order to make the transition. While he struggled in some aspects of the position, his versatility allowed the team to move him across several spots along the defensive front.
His departure will net the team a 6th or 7th-round draft pick due to the compensatory pick formula.
Los Angeles Rams Defensive Free Agent Signs With Buffalo Bills
Hoecht, 27, entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent from Brown University in 2020, signing with the Los Angeles Rams. Initially released during final roster cuts, he was subsequently signed to the Rams’ practice squad and later secured a futures contract in 2021. They then re-signed Hoecht as a restricted free agent in the previous year.
During the 2024 season, Hoecht appeared in all 17 games, recording 56 tackles, three sacks, and two pass defenses. His consistent presence and production have clearly made him a valuable asset, leading to this new contract with the Bills.