Linebacker Matt Milano wants to run it back with the Buffalo Bills.

Adam Schefter of ESPN reported the Bills have signed Milano to a four-year, $44 million deal that includes $24 million guaranteed. The 26-year-old was set to be a free agent next week, but will instead return to Buffalo to anchor the front seven.

Milano missed six games in 2020, but he made an enormous impact down the stretch.

The former Boston College standout had 2.0 sacks, 22 solo tackles, three tackles for a loss and five quarterback hits in the final five games of the season. Milano had 18 combined tackles and three passes defended in Buffalo's two playoff wins, as well.

Milano backed up his words with action in the playoffs. He boldly declared Buffalo's defense would be able to contain Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson after the 2019 NFL MVP ripped the Tennessee Titans on the ground in the Wild Card round. Milano was right on the money.

Jackson rushed nine times for just 34 yards. He completed just 14 of 24 pass attempts and threw a pick-six that changed the course of the game. Milano had a little something in store after that one.

RECOMMENDED (Article Continues Below)
Javon Foster, Dominick Puni, Brenden Rice in the middle, Derek Carr and GM Mickey Loomis around them, and Buffalo Bills wallpaper in the background

Enzo Flojo ·

Of course, the Bills were subsequently crushed by the Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC Championship.

Perhaps this was a bit of an overpay for the Bills. But Buffalo already needed to beef up its run defense, and Milano should help matters in that area if healthy. He can also pressure the quarterback or drop into coverage, which is huge factors if the Bills want to make another deep playoff run.

The Bills might not have gotten over the hump in 2020. Still, Sean McDermott's group has the feel of a team on the rise. Milano wants to be part of that rise.