Predicting the Buffalo Bills 53-Man Roster
With minicamps and OTAs now a thing of the past, the Buffalo Bills are enjoying their much-needed summer break. For some, however, one pressing question remains: Will I make the team? The Bills pride themselves on a 53-man, Super Bowl caliber roster complete with high-level backups. According to their website, their current roster boasts 89 players. This means that 36 will be cut.
The quarterback’s next man up spot is a legitimate competition heading into 2025. Mitch Trubisky was Josh Allen’s right-hand man in 2024; however, 220-pound Mike White from Western Kentucky is giving him a run for his money. Matt Parrino, a Buffalo Beat writer for Syracuse.com, observed White saying, "White was better than Trubisky this spring - it’s as simple as that. He gets the ball out faster, has more zip on his throws, and is willing to take chances to make plays.” Signing White as backup QB also frees up cap space, which could have an impact on the decision. This competition will be closely monitored at training camp as the Bills finalize their depth chart.
Next up is the running back position. With James Cook’s contract controversy shaking the team, it is unclear if the Bills will deploy a different backfield strategy. However, the team did not add any serious contenders this offseason, so their top trio will likely remain the same: Ty Johnson, James Cook, and Ray Davis. This leaves Frank Gore Jr. and Darrynton Evans off the final roster.
There were a lot of changes made to the wide receiver room this offseason, the biggest being the departures of Mack Hollins and Amari Cooper. However, loads of talent remain and are not likely to be challenged heading into 2025. This leaves stars Khalil Shakir, Keon Coleman, Joshua Palmer, Curtis Samuel, and Elijah Moore at the front of the WR room. The real question is who will take on the number one spot.
The defensive end position is a different story. Michael Hoecht is suspended for the first seven games of the season, leaving a noticeable hole in the room. His suspension gives an opportunity to Landon Jackson, who could prove himself a top-three end and earn a roster spot. A.J. Epenesa has a firm hold on one of the top spots. However, Epenesa’s deal is expiring, and he may opt for a worthwhile trade, giving Jackson the spot. It will be interesting to watch their performances in the first six games of the season.
