3 potential X-factors on the Buffalo Bills defense at the Atlanta Falcons in Week 6

The Buffalo Bills continue their 2025 season with a Week 6 game against the Atlanta Falcons, which will be played on the road at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Monday night.

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

Here are three potential X-factors on the Bills (4-1) defense against the Falcons (2-2) on Monday:

DT Ed Oliver

After producing one of the best games of his career in Week 1 against the Ravens, Ed Oliver was forced to miss the next four games due to an ankle injury. Signs are pointing to him being available to play Monday after being a limited participant in Friday's practice. He'd be an instant boost to the interior defensive line.

LB Shaq Thompson

Shaq Thompson has outplayed the expectations of many to start the year. He's had to step in a few times in relief of injuries and has performed well each time. Pro Football Focus grades him as the fifth-best linebacker in the NFL. With Matt Milano out and Dorian Williams returning from injury, Thompson could be a factor yet again.

CB Christian Benford

Christian Benford is due for a bounce-back game after struggling against New England last week. After facing Stefon Diggs in Week 5, he'll get another challenging matchup in Week 6 against Drake London. Returning to his level of play from last year would benefit the Bills greatly and Monday night is a good time to get on track.

This article originally appeared on Bills Wire: Bills at Falcons: 3 potential X-factors on defense in Week 6