What It Means:

The Bills' decision to add linebacker depth is a response to Friday's knee injury suffered by Reggie Ragland (torn ACL), and a definite sign that they're worried about him. Spikes sat out 2015 following a hit-and-run arrest that resulted in a four-game suspension. He worked out for the Miami Dolphins on Wednesday before returning to Buffalo on a one-year pact. Like his fellow signing, Hawthorne is a two-down run stuffer at inside linebacker.

Spikes tallied 54 tackles, one sack, and a forced fumble in 16 games for Buffalo in 2014. Hawthorne played for the New Orleans Saints in 2015, racking up 33 total tackles in a part-time reserve role. Both will likely slot in behind Zach Brown for the time being. Buffalo ranked 16th in Adjusted Defensive Net Expected Points per play last season.