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via Getty

via Getty

The retirement talks of Brandon Shell, the great nephew of Pro Football HOF tackle Art Shell, have been announced to the Bills Mafia. The veteran offensive tackle, who had played seven seasons and was on the verge of entering his eighth, had signed with the Bills on June 1 this year during the NFL free agency.

Shell was listed as the primary backup to starting Right Guard Spencer Brown and Dion Dawkins on the team’s depth chart. However, he had already indicated his retirement plans when he was absent from practice on Tuesday, signaling his intention to retire from Josh Allen’s squad for good.

Brandon Shell’s sudden announcement

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Shell’s retirement deals a blow to the Bills’ offensive line, which was already thin. His retirement plans came as a bit of a surprise given his relatively young age and extensive experience, without major injuries throughout his career. Brandon Shell had started 61 out of the 70 games he played in the NFL. He appeared over seven seasons with the New York Jets (2016-2019), the Seattle Seahawks (2020-2021), and the Miami Dolphins (2022).

A fan humorously indicates their profound surprise and astonishment at the news of Brandon Shell’s retirement, using a play on words on his surname, “I for one am shell shocked” Fans quickly engaged with the Bills Mafia situation following the unexpected retirement news of OT Brandon Shell, responding with evident surprise.

Fans take on the Bills mafia roster?

This comment suggests a positive aspect by comparing the timing of Brandon Shell’s retirement to halftime in a game: “At least he didn’t do it during halftime”

Another comment expresses a mix of relief and sarcasm: “Thank god we got Spencer Brown 🙄

One fan reacts to the news of Brandon Shell’s retirement has increased worries about the depth of the tackle position: “Wowwww. Tackle depth even more of a concern”

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A simple, straightforward exclamation of disappointment as someone wrote: “Oh no!!”

The fan sought information from someone named Joe about available experienced offensive tackles in the free agent market: “Joe, Do you know who are some of the experienced OT’s still on the open market at this time?”

Brandon Shell’s retirement news sparked a mix of humor and anxiety among fans. They showed surprise, relief, and concern while also inquiring about potential replacements, thus underscoring how the team’s tackle depth is affected. Reportedly, the workouts with the two offensive linemen, Quinton Barrow and Garrett McGhin, are off to a good start.

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However, the Bills might need to add another offensive lineman before the season begins. Notably, USA Today’s Jeff Risdon wrote that Barrow could have the potential to play a backup role in the NFL. The Bills may also explore other options, such as signing a free agent like Dennis Kelly or trading for a tackle like Morgan Moses.

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