The Buffalo Bills are heading into a pivotal offseason-one that could define the early stages of the Joe Brady era. With a new head coach at the helm and a fresh offensive direction taking shape, the Bills are also staring down a critical list of pending free agents.
And while turnover is inevitable in the NFL, not every departure needs to happen. In fact, some players are simply too important to let walk.
Here’s a closer look at five free agents the Bills would be wise to keep in the fold-players whose value goes beyond the stat sheet and into the DNA of Buffalo’s identity.
C Connor McGovern: The Anchor in the Middle
One of the biggest reasons Buffalo’s offense found its rhythm late in the 2025 season? Stability up front. And at the center of that-literally and figuratively-was Connor McGovern.
After sliding over from guard to center under the guidance of offensive line coach Aaron Kromer, McGovern didn’t just adapt-he thrived. His chemistry with Josh Allen was immediate and essential, especially as Joe Brady’s offense leaned more on rhythm and timing. McGovern was second only to O’Cyrus Torrence in offensive snaps last season, a testament to both his durability and his importance.
Yes, the Bills have a potential successor in Sedrick Van Pran-Granger, but there’s a difference between potential and proven trust. McGovern has earned that trust.
He’s a key cog in the run game, a steady communicator in pass protection, and a calming presence for a quarterback who thrives when the pocket is clean. If Buffalo is serious about keeping their offensive momentum going, McGovern should be a top priority.
LG David Edwards: Quietly Dominant
David Edwards might not be a household name, but inside the locker room and on the game film, his impact is undeniable. After signing a modest deal, Edwards delivered far more than expected, locking down the left guard spot and forming one of the league’s most cohesive interior trios alongside Torrence and McGovern.
Edwards finished second in total offensive snaps for the Bills in 2025-just behind Torrence and just ahead of McGovern. That kind of availability matters.
So does the chemistry the three linemen built over the course of the season. The Bills’ interior line was a strength, both in protecting Allen and opening lanes for James Cook.
The market will likely recognize Edwards’ value, but Buffalo should make a serious effort to keep him from testing it. Continuity on the offensive line is hard to come by, and the Bills already have it. No need to start over.
LB Shaq Thompson: Veteran Glue in a Shifting Defense
Injuries tested the Bills’ depth at linebacker and nickel corner throughout 2025, and time and again, Shaq Thompson stepped in and stabilized things. He brought energy, leadership, and, most importantly, consistency-something that’s been a theme among Buffalo’s most valuable pieces.
With a new defensive staff coming in, the scheme is likely to evolve. But that doesn’t mean the Bills should hit reset on every position.
Thompson offers a rare blend of experience and versatility, and he’s still playing at a high level. He’s also more affordable than many of his peers on the open market, making him a smart value play.
Buffalo already has younger pieces in Terrel Bernard and Dorian Williams, but Thompson could be the bridge between the present and the future. A one-year deal would allow him to mentor a rookie, contribute in multiple roles, and keep the linebacker room steady during the transition. If he’s open to returning, the Bills should absolutely make it happen.
FB Reggie Gilliam: The Unsung Enforcer
Reggie Gilliam doesn’t get a lot of headlines, but ask anyone in the building-he matters. In an era where fullbacks are nearly extinct, Gilliam has carved out a niche in Buffalo as a tone-setter. Whether it’s clearing paths for James Cook or giving Josh Allen just enough space to sneak through on a short-yardage play, Gilliam does the dirty work that keeps drives alive.
Yes, his presence on the field can tip the defense off to certain play calls. But here’s the thing: they still couldn’t stop him. That’s how effective he was in 2025.
On top of his offensive contributions, Gilliam is a standout on special teams and a reliable option in goal-line situations-especially on the now-famous “tush-push.” A one-year deal keeps the door open for flexibility while retaining a player who’s earned his spot.
WR Brandin Cooks: Trusted When It Counted
Brandin Cooks wasn’t part of the Bills’ plans at the start of 2025, but by the end of the season, he was one of Josh Allen’s most trusted targets. In a wide receiver room full of question marks, Cooks brought something Buffalo desperately needed-speed, separation, and veteran savvy.
When the lights were bright, Allen looked Cooks’ way. That trust doesn’t develop overnight, and it’s not easy to replicate. With no guarantee the Bills will find a better option in free agency or the draft, bringing Cooks back makes a lot of sense.
There’s also a potential wildcard in the mix: new offensive coordinator Pete Carmichael Jr., who coached Cooks during some of his best years in New Orleans. That familiarity could help seal the deal. And let’s be honest-who wouldn’t want another shot at a Super Bowl run with Josh Allen?
The Bottom Line
Change is coming in Buffalo, but not every piece needs to be replaced. In fact, the Bills would be wise to double down on the players who quietly held things together during a season of transition. From the trenches to the second level to the skill positions, these five free agents offer a mix of consistency, leadership, and fit that’s hard to find-and even harder to replace.
If Buffalo wants to hit the ground running in 2026, retaining this core group could be the smartest move they make all offseason.