2025 NFL Season Preview: Buffalo Bills
Football

2025 NFL Season Preview: Buffalo Bills

June 21, 2025
Devon Gallant

2025 NFL Team Preview Series: Buffalo Bills

Welcome to our 2025 NFL Team Preview Series, where we’ll dive deep into all 32 franchises ahead of the upcoming season. Whether you’re a die-hard fan, a fantasy football manager, or just looking to get up to speed before kickoff, this series breaks down everything you need to know about each team’s trajectory.

For every team, we’ll cover:

  • Coaching Staff & Philosophy – Who’s leading the charge, and what kind of system are they running?
  • Offseason Recap – Key free-agent moves, trades, and draft picks that reshaped the roster.
  • Schedule Breakdown – Matchups to watch, tough stretches, and projected win-loss record.

From Super Bowl contenders to rebuilding rosters, we’ll assess where each team stands and what lies ahead in 2025.

Buffalo Bills

Coaching Staff: Continued Stability and Defensive Evolution

Sean McDermott enters another season as head coach of the Buffalo Bills, continuing to lead a franchise that has consistently been a Super Bowl contender under his guidance. The Bills are known for their disciplined, detail-oriented approach and a philosophy built on strong defence and an explosive, quarterback-driven offence.

Offensive Coordinator Joe Brady returns for his second full season, having taken over midway through the 2023 campaign. Brady’s system is tailored to maximize Josh Allen’s dual-threat capabilities, focusing on a dynamic passing game with strategic run concepts. Notably, Brady has shown a commitment to integrating the running game more consistently, particularly utilizing James Cook effectively in the red zone and as a versatile weapon, helping Cook lead the league in rushing touchdowns. This enhanced commitment to the run game not only takes pressure off Allen but also diversifies their scoring attack. The continuity with Brady allows for further refinement and synergy with Allen, promising an even more cohesive and dangerous offensive unit in 2025.

On the defensive side, Bobby Babich takes the reins as Defensive Coordinator for his second year. Stepping into the role in 2024, Babich looks to maintain the Bills’ aggressive defensive identity, known for generating pressure and creating turnovers. With key veteran pieces returning and strategic additions, Babich aims to keep the Bills’ defence amongst the league’s best. The consistency in the coaching staff is a major asset, providing a stable foundation for the team’s championship aspirations.

2025 Offseason Recap: Navigating Departures and Bolstering the Trenches

The Buffalo Bills’ 2025 offseason, spanning from February through the NFL Draft in April, saw the team make calculated moves to address key departures and enhance depth, particularly along the defensive line and in the secondary. General Manager Brandon Beane continued his methodical approach, aiming to maintain competitiveness while managing the salary cap. He spent much of the offseason working on contract restructures and extensions as he walks the fine line of maintaining a Super Bowl calibre roster while navigating the salary cap issues that come with having one of the best quarterbacks in the league under contract.

Key Free-Agent Additions & Retentions:

  • Josh Allen (QB) – Agreed to terms on a new six-year, $330 million deal with $250 million guaranteed, keeping him in Buffalo through 2030. This massive extension is the cornerstone of their long-term plans.
  • Joey Bosa (EDGE) – Signed a 1-year, $12.6 million deal ($12M guaranteed). A significant addition to the defensive line, Bosa brings a high-upside pass-rushing presence on a team-friendly, prove-it deal.
  • Joshua Palmer (WR) – Signed a 3-year, $36 million contract with $18 million guaranteed. A consistent receiver from the Chargers, Palmer adds reliable hands and veteran presence to the wide receiver room.
  • Michael Hoecht (EDGE) – Signed a 3-year contract worth up to $24 million. Hoecht brings versatility and depth to the defensive line.
  • Larry Ogunjobi (DT) – Signed a 1-year, $8.3 million contract with $8 million guaranteed. A proven interior defensive lineman, Ogunjobi adds experience and production to the defensive front.
  • Ty Johnson (RB) – Re-signed on a 2-year, $5 million deal. His versatility in the backfield makes him a valuable component of the Bills’ offensive scheme.
  • Elijah Moore (WR) – Signed a 1-year deal with a max value of $5 million. Moore brings speed and playmaking ability to the receiver corps.
  • Laviska Shenault Jr. (WR/KR) – Signed a 1-year deal. Shenault adds a dynamic return specialist and a versatile offensive weapon.
  • Darrick Forrest (S) – Signed a 1-year deal. Forrest provides depth and special teams value in the secondary.
  • Damar Hamlin (S) – Re-signed on a 1-year, $2 million deal. Provides depth and remains a strong locker room presence.
  • Terrel Bernard (LB) – Agreed to a four-year extension worth $50 million, including $25.2 million guaranteed. Locks up a rising star at linebacker.
  • Christian Benford (CB) – Signed a four-year, $76 million extension. A key retention for the secondary, solidifying the cornerback position.
  • Greg Rousseau (DE) – Signed a four-year, $80 million extension that includes $54 million guaranteed at signing. Secures a crucial pass-rusher for the long term.
  • Khalil Shakir (WR) – Signed a four-year extension worth up to $60.2 million, including $32 million guaranteed at signing. Demonstrates the Bills’ commitment to his role in the offence.
  • Tre’Davious White (CB) – Signed a 1-year deal worth up to $6.8 million. Returns to Buffalo after being released in 2024, providing veteran experience and a familiar face to the secondary.
  • Dane Jackson (CB) – Signed a 1-year deal. Adds further depth and competition to the cornerback room.
  • Darrynton Evans (RB) – Signed a 1-year, $1.21 million deal. Provides depth in the backfield.
  • Kendrick Green (OG) – Signed a 1-year contract, adding to offensive line depth.

Key Departures (February 2025 – June 2025):

  • Kaiir Elam (CB) – Traded to the Dallas Cowboys in March for a 2025 fifth-round pick and 2026 seventh-round pick.
  • Micah Hyde (S) – Retired in January.
  • Tommy Doyle (OT) – Retired in February.
  • Sam Martin (P) – Released in March, later signed with the Carolina Panthers.
  • Von Miller (EDGE) – Released in March. (Reported he plans to play in 2025, but not with Bills).  
  • Will Clapp (C) – Signed with the New Orleans Saints in March.
  • Mack Hollins (WR) – Signed with the New England Patriots in March.   

2025 NFL Draft Recap: Defensive Reinforcements

The 2025 NFL Draft, held from April 24-26, 2025, saw the Buffalo Bills utilize their draft capital to prioritize defensive backs and defensive linemen, while also adding some offensive depth. General Manager Brandon Beane made several strategic moves, including trades, to position the team for future success. The Bills ultimately made nine selections in total, with a clear emphasis on bolstering their defence.

  • Round 1, Pick 30: Maxwell Hairston, CB, Kentucky The Bills used their original first-round pick to select Hairston, a long and athletic cornerback. Hairston brings impressive ball skills, having tied a Kentucky record with three career interceptions returned for touchdowns and leading the SEC with five interceptions in 2023. He immediately injects talent and competition into a secondary that has seen some veteran departures.
  • Round 2, Pick 41 (from CHI): T.J. Sanders, DT, South Carolina The Bills traded up to acquire this pick and selected Sanders, a disruptive interior defensive lineman. Sanders brings excellent athleticism, a quick first step, and the ability to penetrate opposing backfields, addressing a crucial need for the Bills’ defensive line. He was named 2nd team All-SEC in 2024.
  • Round 3, Pick 72 (from CHI): Landon Jackson, EDGE, Arkansas Continuing their focus on the defensive front, Buffalo selected Jackson, a high-upside edge rusher. Jackson boasts an impressive blend of size and burst, capable of setting the edge against the run and offering strong pass-rushing potential. He earned second team All-SEC honors in 2024.
  • Round 4, Pick 109: Deone Walker, DT, Kentucky Another strong addition to the defensive interior, Walker is a massive presence at 6’7″ and 331 pounds. He is a powerful run-stuffer who can demand double teams and open opportunities for other pass rushers. He was a two-time team captain at Kentucky.
  • Round 5, Pick 170: Jordan Hancock, CB, Ohio State Hancock adds further depth and competition to the cornerback room. He’s a technically sound player with good instincts, capable of playing both outside and in the slot. He brings versatility to the secondary.
  • Round 5, Pick 173: Jackson Hawes, TE, Georgia Tech A well-rounded tight end prospect, Hawes is primarily known for his blocking prowess, providing an immediate upgrade in that area. He also offers reliable hands, adding depth behind Dalton Kincaid.
  • Round 6, Pick 177: Dorian Strong, CB, Virginia Tech Strong adds another athletic cornerback to the mix, further emphasizing the Bills’ commitment to bolstering their secondary. He’s demonstrated strong coverage abilities throughout his college career.
  • Round 6, Pick 206: Chase Lundt, OT, UConn Lundt is a developmental offensive tackle with good size. He projects as a player who can be molded within the Bills’ system, providing long-term depth on the offensive line.
  • Round 7, Pick 240: Kaden Prather, WR, Maryland A developmental wide receiver with good size (6’4″, 205 lbs) and contested-catch ability, Prather is a potential diamond in the rough. He’ll compete for a roster spot and aims to develop his route-running skills.

Key Draft Storyline: Rebuilding The Defence Was The Priority

The Buffalo Bills’ 2025 NFL Draft was unequivocally a statement of intent on the defensive side of the ball, representing the biggest storyline of their draft haul. With six of their nine selections dedicated to defence, including their first five picks, General Manager Brandon Beane and Head Coach Sean McDermott sent a clear message: reinforcing the defence was paramount after an offseason that saw some key veteran departures.

This investment directly addresses identified needs, particularly along the defensive line and secondary. Following the retirement of veteran safety Micah Hyde and the expiration of contracts for players such as Rasul Douglas and Austin Johnson, the Bills brought in an influx of young talent to bolster their defensive backfield with picks like Maxwell Hairston and Jordan Hancock. The emphasis to build along the trenches was evident with three defensive linemen – T.J. Sanders, Landon Jackson, and Deone Walker – chosen within their first four picks. This commitment to building a formidable defensive front aligns perfectly with McDermott’s long-standing philosophy of pressuring the quarterback and stopping the run.

While the Bills also extended core offensive players like Josh Allen and Khalil Shakir in the offseason, the draft’s strong defensive tilt suggests the team believes its offence is well-positioned, allowing them to dedicate significant draft capital to fortifying the defence. This strategic approach highlights a clear vision: to maintain their identity as a dominant defensive unit capable of competing against the AFC’s elite offences and finally making a Super Bowl run.

Offseason Summary

The Buffalo Bills’ 2025 offseason was marked by strategic moves aimed at both long-term financial health and immediate roster improvements. While there were some notable departures via trades and expiring contracts, General Manager Brandon Beane aggressively addressed key areas with his draft class, particularly on defence. The focus on defensive line and secondary talent, combined with extensions for foundational players like Josh Allen, Terrel Bernard, Christian Benford, Greg Rousseau, and Khalil Shakir, demonstrates a belief in their current core. The additions of veteran free agents like Joey Bosa, Joshua Palmer, and Larry Ogunjobi also provide immediate impact. This offseason set the stage for a new chapter in Buffalo, aiming to maintain their elite status and finally break through in the challenging AFC.

2025 Schedule Breakdown & Win-Loss Prediction

Following a transformative offseason, the Buffalo Bills enter 2025 with a retooled roster and renewed determination. Their schedule features a challenging slate, including tough divisional matchups and several high-profile non-conference games. Navigating this schedule will test their depth and ability to integrate new talent. But the Bills remain a strong contender with Josh Allen leading the charge.

Weeks 1–4: Starting Strong

  • Week 1: vs. Baltimore Ravens (SNF)
  • Week 2: at New York Jets
  • Week 3: vs. Miami Dolphins
  • Week 4: vs. New Orleans Saints

Outlook: After a tough test on Sunday Night Football in week one, the Bills should be able to put it on cruise control for the next three weeks. Divisional wins against the new look Jets, a Dolphins team who cannot beat good teams followed by a home game against the Saints should start the season off on the right foot.

Prediction: 3-1

Weeks 5–9: Key AFC and NFC Matchups

  • Week 5: vs. New England Patriots (SNF)
  • Week 6: at Atlanta Falcons (MNF)
  • Week 7: BYE
  • Week 8: at Carolina Panthers
  • Week 9: vs. Kansas City Chiefs

Outlook: After an easy start, this stretch includes a prime-time divisional game against the Patriots, a challenging road trip to Atlanta for Monday Night Football, and a critical rematch against the Chiefs at home. The bye week is well-placed. 

Prediction: 3-1 (Overall: 6-2)

Weeks 10–13: Road Games Galore

  • Week 10: at Miami Dolphins
  • Week 11: vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
  • Week 12: at Houston Texans (TNF)
  • Week 13: at Pittsburgh Steelers

Outlook: This segment features another divisional road game, this time in Miami and a highly anticipated revenge game against the Texans and their new offensive coordinator. A tough road test in Pittsburgh adds to the challenge, and the Bucs offence will put plenty of pressure on the Bills rebuilt defence, but they should be favoured in all four of these games despite playing three of them on the road.

Prediction: 3-1 (Overall: 9-3)

Weeks 14–18: Playoff Push

  • Week 14: vs. Cincinnati Bengals
  • Week 15: at New England Patriots
  • Week 16: at Cleveland Browns
  • Week 17: vs. Philadelphia Eagles
  • Week 18: vs. New York Jets

Outlook: The Bills face strong opponents in the final stretch, including finishing off their series against the tough AFC North and face a formidable Eagles team.

Prediction: 3-2

Final Record Prediction: 12-5

The AFC East is a division in flux at the moment – the New England Patriots are in year two of a full scale rebuild, the Jets have a new coaching staff. Meanwhile, who knows what to expect from Miami from week to week. While the Bills roster has undergone significant changes, the talent level, led by Josh Allen, remains high. Their ability to integrate new pieces, especially on defence, will determine their ceiling. Expect them to be in the thick of the AFC playoff race, likely contending for a first week playoff bye as they should be in the mix for the number one seed in the AFC.

Final Take: Contender Status Maintained, Evolution Underway

The Buffalo Bills emerge from the 2025 offseason having navigated some significant changes while retaining their core identity as a Super Bowl contender. The headline-grabbing extensions to key pieces solidify their long-term foundation on both sides of the ball. These moves, combined with General Manager Brandon Beane’s disciplined approach to the salary cap, demonstrate a commitment to building a sustainable winner.

The biggest story of the offseason, beyond the extensions, is the strategic retooling of the roster. While the previous trade of Stefon Diggs reshaped the receiving corps, the 2025 free agency additions of Joshua Palmer and Elijah Moore, coupled with the continued ascension of Khalil Shakir and Dalton Kincaid, should produce a more diversified passing attack. On defence, the aggressive pursuit of Joey Bosa and Larry Ogunjobi in free agency, alongside a draft class focused on the defensive line and secondary, clearly signals a desire to maintain their elite defensive standard even with some veteran departures.

The 2025 Buffalo Bills appear to be a more balanced team, with offensive coordinator Joe Brady emphasizing the running game more, particularly with James Cook. This commitment to a more versatile offensive attack, coupled with a refreshed and youthful defensive core, positions the Bills to continue their dominance in the AFC East. Their schedule features tough early tests against playoff contenders, but the Bills are built to withstand those challenges. The path to the Super Bowl in the AFC remains incredibly difficult, but the Bills’ calculated offseason moves indicate they are more than ready to compete for the conference crown. Expect them to be a top-tier team with a legitimate shot at securing the #1 seed in the AFC and making a deep playoff run.

-Devon Gallant

Twitter: @DevGallant

Photo: Erik Drost. This file is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 Generic license.