‘In moving to a 3-4 defense, the Bills are going to need linebackers. Thompson was their best last season. He brought a toughness to the defense that elevated the entire group. He’s got experience playing in a 3-4 scheme, which is especially important with the transition the team will make under new coordinator Jim Leonhard. Thompson’s age (31) is somewhat concerning, but in a way it works to the Bills’ advantage, because he’s not likely to secure a long-term, lucrative contract on the free-agent market. Given the Bills’ minimal amount of cap space, Thompson should be affordable.’