The Buffalo Bills didn’t make a lot of moves in free agency, but the few additions they did make are expected to have a significant impact. By addressing many of their key needs before the draft, Buffalo has positioned itself to select the best player available in the first round.
From Joey Bosa to Josh Palmer, the Bills navigated free agency about as well as one could hope. With less than a month until the draft, the roster looks strong on paper.
Both of Buffalo’s high-profile signings, Josh Palmer and Joey Bosa, are joining position groups undergoing a bit of a rebuild. Head coach Sean McDermott will be counting on them to lead their respective units. Here’s a look at three newcomers expected to make the biggest difference this season.
WR Josh Palmer
Last season, the Bills lacked a true deep-threat receiver, opting for a bigger-bodied group of pass catchers. Palmer fills that gap as Buffalo transitions away from that approach. In 2024, he recorded 39 receptions for 584 yards and one touchdown, averaging nine yards per target.
As things stand, Palmer is expected to be the team’s third receiver, behind second-year wideout Keon Coleman and slot receiver Khalil Shakir. With defenses focusing on other weapons, Palmer should see an increase in production.
DE Joey Bosa
Injuries have led some to overlook Bosa, but he’s set to play a key role on Buffalo’s defensive front. Despite appearing in just 14 games last season—starting nine—he still managed to register five sacks, 22 tackles, and 13 quarterback hits.
Bosa likely won’t be logging as many snaps as he did with the Chargers, which could help him stay healthier throughout the year. No matter who else the Bills bring in, Bosa’s production should remain steady, making him an exciting addition despite any outside skepticism.
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S Darrick Forrest
Forrest might be the most underappreciated signing of Buffalo’s offseason. He’s a talented safety whose stock took a hit following a rough 2024 campaign with the Washington Commanders. However, the last time he had a consistent starting role—in 2022—he posted impressive numbers: four interceptions, two forced fumbles, nine passes defended, and 88 tackles across 11 starts.
Forrest will compete with Damar Hamlin and rookie Cole Bishop for a starting spot alongside Taylor Rapp. At just 25 years old, he has the potential to be part of Buffalo’s long-term plans.