With Super Bowl LX in the rearview, the Buffalo Bills are wasting no time turning the page. The mission is clear: build a roster that can not only return to the big game but finally bring a Lombardi Trophy to Western New York for the first time in franchise history. But the road ahead is anything but smooth.
Cap Crunch and the Beane Blueprint
Buffalo enters the 2026 offseason staring down a tight salary cap situation, currently projected to be $7.4 million over the limit. That puts general manager Brandon Beane in a familiar but unenviable position-needing to get creative with contracts, restructures, and potential cuts to free up space.
It’s a high-wire act that Beane has walked before, but this offseason carries extra weight. The core of the roster is aging, and the window to maximize Josh Allen’s prime isn’t going to stay open forever.
Beane’s first order of business? Deciding the futures of 22 unrestricted free agents and three restricted free agents.
That list includes some major contributors on both sides of the ball-defensive end A.J. Epenesa, linebacker Matt Milano, defensive tackle DaQuan Jones, and veteran cornerback Tre’Davious White, just to name a few.
Each decision will have ripple effects across the depth chart, and the Bills can’t afford many missteps.
Offensive Line Uncertainty
Unlike recent years, the offensive line isn’t a sure thing heading into the offseason. Buffalo risks losing both center Connor McGovern and left guard David Edwards to free agency.
That’s a potential blow to a unit that’s been one of the league’s most consistent in protecting Allen and opening up the run game. If either-or both-walk, the Bills will need to prioritize reinforcements quickly, whether through the draft, free agency, or internal development.
A New Look on Defense
Defensively, change is already underway. Jim Leonhard steps in as the new defensive coordinator, bringing with him a 3-4 scheme that will reshape how Buffalo lines up and attacks.
That shift alone could lead to significant roster turnover, especially in the front seven. Linebackers like Shaq Thompson and Milano will need to adapt, while the pass rush-an area that’s lacked consistency-could see new faces brought in to fit Leonhard’s aggressive style.
The Bills have invested heavily in their defensive line in recent years, and the success of the Super Bowl champion Seahawks only reinforces the value of building from the trenches. But now it's about finding the right pieces to fit a new system. Edge rushers who can stand up and drop into coverage, interior linemen who can two-gap-Buffalo’s scouting department has its work cut out.
The Josh Allen Window
Of course, everything ultimately revolves around No. 17.
Josh Allen remains one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in the league, but even he can’t do it alone. The Bills have flirted with adding a true No. 1 wide receiver to pair with Allen in recent offseasons, but haven’t quite pulled the trigger.
Could this be the year they finally go big? Whether it’s a trade, a splash signing, or a bold draft move, giving Allen a top-tier weapon on the outside could be the missing piece.
And speaking of the draft, Buffalo holds the 26th overall pick. That’s not premium territory, but it’s a spot where impact players can still be found-especially if Beane is willing to move up or down the board. Wide receiver, offensive line, and pass rush all figure to be in play, depending on how free agency shakes out.
Leadership Reset
The coaching staff has a fresh look as well. Joe Brady steps into the head coaching role, and early feedback from around the league has been positive.
Former NFL quarterback Chase Daniel praised the trio of Brady, offensive coordinator Pete Carmichael, and Leonhard for their potential to bring balance and innovation to both sides of the ball. Brady’s offensive mind is well-regarded, but now he faces the challenge of managing the entire operation-something that will test his leadership from Day 1.
Injury Watch and Rookie Updates
Injury news will also play a role in shaping the offseason. Rookie cornerback Dorian Strong, who showed promise before going down, recently provided a positive update on his recovery. His return could bolster a secondary that may look very different depending on what happens with veterans like White.
Looking Ahead
Buffalo knows the stakes. The AFC remains a gauntlet, and the Super Bowl champion Seahawks have set a new bar for defensive dominance and roster depth.
The Bills aren’t far off-but the margin for error is razor-thin. Every decision this offseason-from cap management to draft picks to scheme fits-will help determine whether Buffalo is a contender in 2026 or just another team chasing shadows in a loaded conference.
The pieces are there. The quarterback is elite.
The front office has experience. Now it's about execution.
The Bills' offseason is officially underway-and it’s one that could define the next chapter of the Josh Allen era.