2. Why DE Javon Solomon is feeling comfortable in Year 2
Second-year defensive end Javon Solomon is feeling lighter this training camp. The defensive end is getting the hang of Buffalo’s playbook, which is helping his confidence grow.
“Just the ability to be comfortable in your own skin and your own abilities,” Solomon said of the difference in his sophomore season. “Going out there performing and knowing that if I mess up, I’m going to get coached up. If I make a great play, I’m going to get coached up.”
The coaching has helped Solomon flash during training camp. The DE has showcased his get off, ability to pressure the quarterback and run-stuffing ability on multiple occasions. Solomon credits this play to a better understanding of the defense.
“My second year feels like a night and day difference (from the first),” Solomon shared. “Being able to understand the scheme, the playbook, your teammates, being able to play off each other, it’s a different feeling. Now the pressure is relinquished a little bit, and I can put focus into other things.”
The Troy product, who had 16 sacks in 2023, is focusing on production in his second season. While finishing plays so they turn into sacks is important, Solomon is keying in on how he starts.
“The biggest thing for me is preaching how I start,” Solomon said of turning pressures into sacks. “Reading my tackles, reading the shot clock, being dialed into the situation to feel it out. And then when you get a chance, you have to be able to have certain moves.”
Solomon finished his rookie season with two sacks, six quarterback hits and three tackles for loss. The DE is keeping this year’s preseason goals simple.
“If I’m better than I was the day before, that’s the biggest thing for me,” Solomon shared. “I constantly wake up with that mentality.”