As the Buffalo Bills shift into offseason mode, the front office is staring down a pivotal stretch. Big decisions loom-some straightforward, others far more complicated. From evaluating pending free agents to scanning the market for potential additions, the Bills are entering a period that could shape their immediate future and long-term direction.
At the heart of it all is a familiar face: linebacker Matt Milano. For the first time in his career, Milano is set to hit free agency. And while his name has long been synonymous with Buffalo’s defensive identity, there's now a real possibility that his time in Western New York could be coming to a close.
Milano’s Uncertain Future in Buffalo
Milano’s recent seasons have been marred by injuries, limiting his availability and forcing the Bills to make a tough call. They restructured his contract, effectively shaving a year off and setting him up to hit the open market in 2026. That move may have signaled the beginning of the end for his time in Buffalo.
But here’s the thing: when healthy, Milano can still ball. He’s a rangy, instinctive linebacker who can cover ground, defend the pass, and bring pressure when needed.
Even in a season where Buffalo’s defense struggled across the board, Milano stood out. He finished third on the team in total tackles (67) and added 3.5 sacks-trailing only Greg Rousseau and DaQuan Jones in that department.
In what was essentially a contract year, Milano proved he’s still got something left in the tank.
So where could he land if the Bills decide to go in a different direction?
Potential Landing Spots for Matt Milano
Tennessee Titans
The Titans are in a bit of a transition. Outside of Jeffery Simmons, their defense is thin, and they’re closer to a rebuild than a playoff push.
But that’s exactly why a player like Milano could be valuable. He brings postseason experience-he’s made the playoffs in all but one season-and he still has the ability to play sideline-to-sideline.
For a team trying to establish a new defensive identity, Milano could be a stabilizing force in the middle of the field.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Tampa Bay’s 2025 season was a tale of two halves. They started hot at 6-2, then stumbled down the stretch, finishing 8-9 and missing the playoffs.
Despite the late-season collapse, they kept head coach Todd Bowles in place-a decision that signals a continued emphasis on defense. Bowles has a track record of building strong defensive units, and Milano fits the mold of the kind of player who could thrive in his system.
The Bucs have a solid offensive core, but their defense needs immediate help. Milano’s ability to contribute right away-and mentor younger players-would make him a strong addition in Tampa.
Dallas Cowboys
Even when Micah Parsons was still in Dallas, the Cowboys’ defense had its share of inconsistencies. After trading Parsons to the Packers, the unit lost its biggest playmaker and struggled to find its footing. Dallas made moves to shore things up-adding Logan Wilson and Quinnen Williams-but the linebacker room still needs help.
Milano could be the answer. He’s got the coverage skills to handle tight ends and backs out of the backfield, and he brings the kind of experience and leadership that would complement a defense trying to re-establish itself.
Buffalo Bills
Of course, there’s still a path for Milano to stay in Buffalo. The Bills have re-upped with him before, and they could do it again-especially if they see him as a veteran leader who can help bridge the gap while younger players develop.
Despite the injuries, Milano was one of the few bright spots on a defense that struggled from start to finish. If the Bills are looking for continuity and leadership in the locker room, bringing him back for at least one more season makes a lot of sense.
What Comes Next
Milano’s future is one of many storylines to watch this offseason, but it’s a particularly meaningful one for a Bills team that’s trying to stay competitive in a loaded AFC. Whether he stays in Buffalo or finds a new home, Milano’s next move will be worth watching-not just for what it means for him, but for what it signals about the direction of the teams involved.
He’s not the flashiest name on the market, but make no mistake: Matt Milano still has plenty to offer.