3 potential X-factors on the Bills defense vs. Patriots in Week 4

The Buffalo Bills continue their 2026 NFL season with a matchup against the New England Patriots at home at Highmark Stadium in Week 4. It will be a 1 p.m. kickoff.

While game plans, coaching, and strategy will play a part, but sometimes a big emphasis will sit with some individual players. In terms of the Bills defense, who could those be?

Walker has been listed on the Bills' injury report for the first time this season with a quad injury. He has only been limited and it is expected he will play against the Patriots. Walker has been the key cog for Buffalo's defense that allows a lot of other players, such as pass rusher Greg Rousseau, to shine.

Hopefully Walker can continue to impact games like he has been.

Williams is a downhill linebacker that can help stuff an opposing run game. If the Bills defense slows down the Patriots' rushing attack, that will put emphasis on quarterback Drake Maye, who has struggled at the start of this season.

If cornerback Christian Benford (foot) is in a walking boot this week. If he can't go, Igbinosun will step into his starting part. Even though the second-round rookie has performed well, an opposing offense will certainly try to pick on the replacement player in the passing game.