As the NFL Combine approaches, free agency is right around the corner—even if it doesn’t quite feel like it yet. The Buffalo Bills face some tough roster decisions this offseason, whether through free agency or the draft. GM Brandon Beane and his staff will need to make moves that could affect the team’s current players.
One player who no longer has to worry about his future is wide receiver Khalil Shakir, who signed a four-year, $60 million extension with the Bills. The deal not only secures Shakir in Buffalo for the next five seasons but also provides the team with financial flexibility as they navigate their offseason plans.
However, four longtime fan-favorite Bills could find themselves in a tough spot this offseason, as the team may look to bring in their eventual replacements—whether fans like it or not.
Which players might be at risk of seeing Buffalo add their successors through free agency or the draft?
4 Bills who could be out of Buffalo after (or before) 2025 season
LB Terrel Bernard
When Tremaine Edmunds departed from the Bills, it initially seemed like a significant void in the middle of the defense. However, it turned into an opportunity for Terrel Bernard, who was entering his second season, to step up as the full-time starter. Despite missing the preseason and with Tyrel Dodson struggling in his absence, Buffalo decided to roll with Bernard—and the move has paid off ever since.
Bernard is part of the Bills’ 2022 draft class, in which GM Brandon Beane successfully landed four eventual starters: Bernard, James Cook, Khalil Shakir, and Christian Benford. Shakir became the first of the group to secure a contract extension.
Given the nature of the position, the Bills may have an easier time finding a linebacker capable of stepping into Bernard’s role after the 2025 season if they choose to go in that direction.
DT DaQuan Jones
For the past three seasons, DaQuan Jones has been a reliable run-stopper, often taking on double teams to free up players like Ed Oliver to make plays. However, his 2024 performance didn’t quite pass the eye test.
With Jones entering the final year of his contract, it wouldn’t be surprising if GM Brandon Beane looks to add young defensive tackle talent to develop behind him for the future.
The Bills selected DeWayne Carter in last year’s draft, but his wrist injury, along with being a healthy scratch late in the season, raises some concerns. While Carter could eventually take over for Jones, the Bills may still look to add more depth at defensive tackle. Regardless, Jones will likely get a glimpse of his eventual successor as Buffalo prepares for life after 2025.
RB James Cook
This may spark some debate, but James Cook isn’t helping his case by making his contract demands public. The rising star running back is seeking $15 million per year, which would make him the second-highest-paid back in the league.
GM Brandon Beane addressed the situation at the NFL Combine, acknowledging that while both sides may not see eye to eye right now, that doesn’t mean an agreement won’t be reached down the line.
Buffalo utilizes a committee approach in the backfield, and while Ray Davis showed promise in his rookie season, he’s not James Cook.
Depending on how things unfold, the Bills may opt to have Cook play out the final year of his rookie contract in 2025 before parting ways. If Buffalo is even considering moving on from Cook, they’ll need to find a worthy replacement to maintain their offensive balance.
LB Matt Milano
Including a fan-favorite like Matt Milano on this list is tough—but necessary. Milano has long been the heart and soul of Buffalo’s defense, but injuries have become a growing concern.
After suffering a season-ending injury in 2023, he dealt with a biceps injury before the 2024 season that sidelined him until Week 13. His durability issues could prompt the Bills to start planning for his eventual replacement.
For years, Milano was one of the most valuable players on Buffalo’s defense. However, due to his recent injury history, he has become more of a liability.
The Bills saw flashes of promise from Dorian Williams, who filled in for Milano during the 2024 season. Still, it wouldn’t be surprising if Buffalo looks to add another linebacker with a similar skill set to eventually take over Milano’s role in the future.