Josh Allen on Sabres, fatherhood and foot injury Rochester Democrat and Chronicle April 20, 2026, 4:23 p.m. ET ORCHARD PARK — The Buffalo Bills’ preparations for the NFL Draft and their voluntary training program under new head coach Joe Brady dominated headlines this week, but key team members including quarterback Josh Allen, president/general manager Brandon Beane, and Brady himself turned their attention to the Buffalo Sabres’ historic playoff run. Following the Sabres’ 4-3 overtime victory over the Boston Bruins in Game 1 of their Eastern Conference quarterfinal series, Allen, Beane, and Brady publicly showed their support for the NHL team during separate media sessions on Monday. Allen, who was en route to Buffalo from his offseason home to attend the Bills’ voluntary OTA sessions, wore a Sabres hoodie and cap during his media appearance. Beane and Brady followed suit, with Beane sporting a Sabres-themed outfit and Brady donning a OneBuffalo sweatshirt. Beane, who attended the Sabres’ playoff game with Brady and several Bills players, described the experience as “another level” in Buffalo. “It’s interesting watching a team you’re rooting for, but you didn’t acquire the players or you’re not in charge of anything there. You’re just watching as a fan,” he said. “That’s the first playoff hockey game I’ve ever been to. Everybody says playoff hockey’s different. I would say maybe it’s even another level in Buffalo.” Allen, who missed the Sabres’ game due to being on a flight, shared his excitement about the outcome. “Unfortunately, I wasn’t there last night. I was on a plane, but I landed and obviously the whole plane was going nuts,” he said with a smile. “Got to watch the highlights right after. Talk about electric. That was fun to watch the highlights.#buffalo_bills #josh_allen #brandon_beane #buffalo_sabres #joe_bradley
New father Josh Allen hoping 'dad strength kicks in' as he turns 30 Josh Allen, the Buffalo Bills quarterback and new father, reflected on how becoming a parent has shifted his priorities while maintaining his competitive drive. Allen, whose wife, actress Hailee Steinfeld, gave birth to their daughter earlier this month, emphasized that his desire to win remains unchanged, though his motivation has evolved. "The why I want to do it has changed," Allen said in an interview with the Associated Press. "Now it's to show my family, especially my daughter, how hard you need to work to accomplish something great. As long as I play this game, that's going to be my mindset." Allen, set to turn 30 in a month, expressed confidence that his athletic performance would continue to improve beyond his current age. "I'm not too sure on the science of the athletic peak of a male, but I think it's slightly beyond 30. And then hopefully the dad strength kicks in, right?" he joked, acknowledging the physical and mental adjustments required as he transitions into fatherhood. The past year has been transformative for Allen, marked by both personal and professional changes. In addition to becoming a father, he navigated significant shifts within the Bills organization. Head coach Sean McDermott was fired this offseason, and offensive coordinator Joe Brady was promoted to replace him. Allen, who underwent surgery to remove a broken bone in his right foot earlier this year, has been attending voluntary workouts to support Brady’s efforts to establish a new coaching philosophy. "I wanted to make sure my presence is felt here and relay what Joe has in store for us," Allen said. "It's a new message, new vibe, new guys. And it's been a good change.#buffalo_bills #josh_allen #hailee_steinfeld #joe_bradley #sean_mcdermott
Josh Allen, Hailee Steinfeld Announce Birth of Baby Girl Josh Allen and his wife, actress Hailee Steinfeld, have welcomed their first child, a baby girl, in a heartfelt announcement shared on Substack. The news, titled "Special Delivery," was posted by the couple, who expressed their gratitude and excitement about the arrival of their daughter. The message read, "Our baby girl has arrived!! We're feeling incredibly grateful and blessed and savouring these early moments. Thank you so much for the love and well wishes. Love, Hailee and Josh." The couple chose not to disclose the baby’s name or provide additional details about the child. Allen, the quarterback for the Buffalo Bills, has long been a prominent figure in the NFL, earning accolades such as NFL MVP, All-Pro, and Pro Bowler honors. This new chapter in his life marks another milestone, as he transitions from a professional athlete to a father. In a January interview, Allen spoke about his anticipation for the role, stating, "It's something that I will take with great pride. And we're going to have to figure things out on the go, just like anything else." His comments reflect both his enthusiasm and the sense of responsibility he feels toward his new family. Steinfeld, who has been openly sharing updates about her pregnancy, has been active on social media throughout her journey to motherhood. She attended the Golden Globes, where she celebrated her role in the film Sinners, but was unable to participate in the Oscars due to the event occurring close to her due date. Her public engagement with her pregnancy has provided fans with a glimpse into her personal life while also highlighting the challenges of balancing career and family. The couple’s relationship began in 2023, and they married in May 2025 after a six-month engagement.#buffalo_bills #josh_allen #substack #hailee_steinfeld #golden_globes
Josh Allen and Hailee Steinfeld Announce Birth of First Child BUFFALO, N.Y. -- The newest member of the Buffalo Bills' extended family has officially arrived, as quarterback Josh Allen and his wife, actress-singer Hailee Steinfeld, announced the birth of their daughter. The couple did not share the date of birth or the name of their first child, but they revealed the news on Dec. 12, 2025, following their marriage on May 31. Steinfeld, 29, and Allen, also 29, had gone public with their relationship in spring 2023, and Allen proposed to Steinfeld during the Bills' bye week in November 2024. Allen expressed his excitement about becoming a father during a late January interview, shortly after Bills coach Joe Brady was introduced as the team’s new head coach. Speaking about the milestone, Allen emphasized the significance of fatherhood in his life. “I’m very much looking forward to that with my wife, becoming a dad,” he said. “It’s something that I will take with great pride, and we’re going to have to figure things out on the go, just like anything else. But this is the most important thing I’ll ever be in my life, is being a dad. And I know, I love being a football player and I love being a quarterback for the Buffalo Bills, but I’m looking forward to this one.” The couple’s journey to parenthood began with their public relationship announcement in early 2023, which marked a significant shift in their careers. Steinfeld, known for her work in film and music, had previously kept her personal life private, while Allen, a rising star in the NFL, had focused on his football career. Their union brought together two prominent figures in entertainment and sports, drawing attention from fans and media alike.#buffalo_bills #josh_allen #2025_season #hailee_steinfeld #joe_bradley
Hailee Steinfeld Welcomes First Baby with Husband Josh Allen Hailee Steinfeld and her husband, NFL quarterback Josh Allen, have officially welcomed their first child, a daughter, into the world. The couple, who married in 2025, shared the joyous news through a heartfelt post on Steinfeld’s Substack platform, titled "Special Delivery." The announcement marked a significant milestone in their relationship, which has been a focal point of public interest since their high-profile union. Steinfeld, 29, and Allen, 31, have consistently expressed their excitement about starting a family, with both emphasizing the profound impact the new chapter will have on their lives. The couple’s journey to parenthood began with their marriage in 2025, a union that captured widespread attention due to their contrasting public personas. Steinfeld, known for her acting career and role in the Disney series Sinners, and Allen, a star player for the Buffalo Bills, have navigated the spotlight with a blend of personal commitment and public visibility. Their announcement of pregnancy came after months of speculation, with Steinfeld’s blog posts and social media activity hinting at her growing anticipation. In a January press conference, Allen revealed his eagerness to embrace fatherhood, stating, "It's something that I will take with great pride. And we're going to have to figure things out on the go, just like anything else." He added, "But this is the most important thing I'll ever be in my life, being a dad. And I know I love being a football player, and I love being a quarterback for the Buffalo Bills. But I'm looking forward to this one." Steinfeld’s reflections on motherhood were shared in a blog post titled "Getting Ducks in a Row" on her Substack platform, Beau Society.#buffalo_bills #josh_allen #substack #hailee_steinfeld #beau_society
Buffalo Bills Bring Back Safety Damar Hamlin The Buffalo Bills have signed safety Damar Hamlin to a one-year contract, a move that has drawn mixed reactions from fans. While some may view the decision skeptically, Hamlin has consistently contributed to the team since being drafted in 2021 from Pittsburgh. His experience as a starting safety adds depth to the roster, particularly with C.J. Gardner-Johnson expected to serve as the primary safety alongside Cole Bishop. Hamlin’s role as a special teamer is also significant, despite a notable error during a postseason game against the Kansas City Chiefs a few years ago. The deal is not a major blockbuster in free agency, as the Bills are currently focused on filling roster spots ahead of the draft. However, Hamlin’s off-field impact remains substantial. He is a key figure in the Buffalo community through his Chasing M’s Foundation, which aims to improve health equity and save lives through education, access, and advocacy. His efforts with the American Heart Association have also gained attention, especially following his cardiac arrest during a Monday Night Football game against the Cincinnati Bengals. The Bills’ safety depth chart includes Cole Bishop as the starting safety, with C.J. Gardner-Johnson likely to be the second starter. Hamlin would join the roster as a backup, alongside players like Geno Stone, Jordan Hancock, and Wande Owens. Sam Franklin is listed as a safety but is primarily expected to contribute on special teams. This signing underscores the team’s strategy to balance immediate needs with long-term planning, while also leveraging Hamlin’s community influence.#buffalo_bills #american_heart_association #cincinnati_bengals #damar_hamlin #chasing_m_s_foundation
Buffalo Bills Re-Sign Damar Hamlin for 2026 Season The Buffalo Bills have re-signed safety Damar Hamlin to a one-year contract for the 2026 NFL season. The 28-year-old player, who became the only NFL team Hamlin has ever known, returns after his 2025 campaign was cut short due to a pectoral injury. Hamlin, who previously endured a life-threatening cardiac arrest during a game in January 2023, made a full recovery and played in five games the following season, earning second-place honors in Comeback Player of the Year voting. Hamlin’s 2025 season was limited to five games after sustaining a pectoral injury during practice, which required surgery and ended his season early. His resilience was tested in January 2023 when he suffered a cardiac incident during a “Monday Night Football” matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals. Diagnosed as commotio cordis—a rare condition caused by blunt force trauma that can lead to sudden cardiac arrest—Hamlin was resuscitated on the field and has since fully recovered. His return to play in 2024, including a standout performance in the AFC divisional round, marked a significant milestone in his career. During the 2024 season, Hamlin recorded eight tackles and forced a strip-sack on Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson in a Bills victory. His efforts on the field were complemented by his off-field advocacy, as he has collaborated with the American Heart Association and lawmakers to promote CPR and AED training in schools, youth organizations, and communities. Hamlin has also worked to secure AEDs for educational institutions and help implement emergency action plans to address cardiac emergencies. Hamlin’s journey from a near-fatal incident to becoming a key player for the Bills underscores his determination.#buffalo_bills #american_heart_association #cincinnati_bengals #damar_hamlin #lamar_jackson
Buffalo Bills Re-Sign Safety Damar Hamlin on One-Year Deal The Buffalo Bills have re-signed safety Damar Hamlin to a one-year contract following his abbreviated 2025 season, which was cut short by a pectoral injury. The team announced the move on Friday, confirming Hamlin’s return to the roster despite the setback. Hamlin, 28, played in only five games last year after sustaining the injury during practice, which required surgery and ultimately ended his season in October. His re-signing comes as the Bills bolster their safeties unit with the addition of C.J. Gardner-Johnson and Geno Stone through free agency this offseason. Hamlin, a 2021 sixth-round draft pick, began his career as a backup and special teams player for the Bills. He gained opportunities to start in 2022 due to injuries, including the Jan. 2, 2023, "Monday Night Football" game against the Cincinnati Bengals. During that contest, Hamlin suffered a cardiac arrest on the field and was resuscitated by medical personnel. After a period of recovery, he was medically cleared to return to football and chose to continue playing, serving as a backup in 2023. By 2024, Hamlin had earned the starting safety position, appearing in 14 games and recording his first two interceptions of the season. Beyond his on-field contributions, Hamlin’s story has had a significant impact off the field. His Chasing M’s Foundation, established in the wake of his cardiac arrest, has raised millions in support of heart health initiatives. Since the incident, Hamlin, the Bills, the NFL, and various partners have worked to promote awareness about cardiac emergencies, emphasizing the importance of CPR and automated external defibrillators (AEDs).#buffalo_bills #damar_hamlin #chasing_m_s_foundation #c_j_gardnerjohnson #geno_stone
Browns Add Defensive End A.J. Epenesa, Sign Wide Receiver Tylan Wallace The Cleveland Browns have finalized additions to their roster, bringing in defensive end A.J. Epenesa and wide receiver Tylan Wallace. Epenesa, a former second-round pick, is joining the team on a one-year contract worth up to $5 million, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The move marks the end of his six-year tenure with the Buffalo Bills, where he played under a modified defensive scheme. The Bills are transitioning to a 3-4 alignment under new defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard, and Epenesa will remain in a 4-3 role as a complementary pass-rushing presence. Epenesa’s time with the Bills included a two-year, $12 million contract signed in 2024. Despite playing 15 games in 2024, he recorded just 2.5 sacks, a decline from his previous seasons. However, he remained a key rotational player, appearing on 47% of the team’s defensive snaps. The Bills also signed Bradley Chubb and will have Michael Hoecht returning from injury, which likely influenced Epenesa’s departure. The Browns, meanwhile, already have Alex Wright as Myles Garrett’s primary sidekick, but Epenesa’s 19 sacks over the past three seasons make him a valuable addition. The Browns’ decision to sign Epenesa at a lower cost than Wright’s $33 million, three-year deal reflects their strategy to balance experience with value. Epenesa’s role as a reliable pass-rusher and his ability to contribute on special teams could provide depth to the defense. Wide receiver Tylan Wallace is also joining the Browns, per cleveland.com’s Mary Kay Cabot. Wallace, a five-year veteran with the Baltimore Ravens, will follow former Ravens offensive coordinator Todd Monken to Cleveland.#buffalo_bills #jim_leonhard #cleveland_browns #aj_epenesa #tylan_wallace
Former Bills DE AJ Epenesa Signs One-Year Deal with Browns Former Buffalo Bills defensive end AJ Epenesa is set to sign a one-year contract with the Cleveland Browns, according to a source shared with ESPN’s Adam Schefter on Wednesday. The deal, which could be worth up to $5 million, marks Epenesa’s return to the NFL after spending his entire six-year career with the Bills. Epenesa, 27, was selected in the second round of the 2020 NFL draft by Buffalo and became a consistent presence on the team’s defensive line. Over his NFL career, he has appeared in 91 games, starting 19 of them. Known for his ability to disrupt opposing offenses, Epenesa has accumulated 24 sacks in his career. However, his production dipped in 2025, as he recorded just 2.5 sacks in 16 games, compared to 19 sacks over the previous three seasons. Despite the decline in sack numbers, Epenesa has remained a threat through his arm usage. He has registered 14 batted passes and four interceptions throughout his career, including two in 2025. His ability to disrupt quarterbacks has also translated to the postseason, where he has played in 14 games. While he has yet to record a sack in the playoffs, Epenesa has contributed with three quarterback hits and three batted passes. The move to the Browns represents a new chapter for Epenesa, who has spent his entire NFL career with the Bills. The deal comes as the Browns look to bolster their defensive line, adding depth and experience to a unit that has seen significant changes in recent years. Epenesa’s versatility and ability to impact games through both sacks and pass-rushing techniques make him a valuable addition to the team’s roster. ESPN’s Alaina Getzenberg contributed to this report.#buffalo_bills #espn #adam_schefter #cleveland_browns #aj_epenesa
Vikings Sign Bills Restricted Free Agent OT Ryan Van Demark To Offer Sheet The Minnesota Vikings have signed Buffalo Bills restricted free agent offensive tackle Ryan Van Demark to an offer sheet, according to reports from NFL insiders. The deal, which is a one-year, $4.2 million guaranteed contract, was confirmed by Aaron Wilson, who noted that the Bills have five days to match Minnesota’s offer if they wish to retain Van Demark. Van Demark, a 27-year-old undrafted free agent, originally signed with the Indianapolis Colts in 2023 after going unselected in the NFL Draft. He was waived by the Colts and subsequently joined the Bills’ practice squad. Buffalo re-signed him to a futures deal in 2024, and he has remained on the team’s active roster since. In 2025, Van Demark appeared in all 17 games for the Bills, starting four of them, which highlights his role as a reliable backup along the offensive line. The Bills initially tendered Van Demark a restricted free agent offer for the 2026 season at a value of $3.5 million. This tender allows other teams to submit offer sheets, but the Bills retain the right of first refusal to match any competing bids. However, if they choose not to match, they would not receive a draft pick as compensation, since Van Demark was an undrafted free agent rather than a drafted player. Van Demark’s journey to the NFL has been marked by perseverance. After being waived by the Colts, he found a foothold with the Bills, where he has developed into a key rotational player. His ability to contribute at the NFL level despite not being drafted underscores his value as a versatile and hardworking offensive lineman.#buffalo_bills #minnesota_vikings #nfl #aaron_wilson #ryan_van_demark
Buffalo Bills Triple Salary for Offensive Tackle in Free Agency The Buffalo Bills have placed a $3.52 million right-of-first-refusal tender on offensive tackle Ryan Van Demark, significantly increasing his salary and signaling the team’s intent to retain him. The tender, announced on Wednesday, gives the Bills the ability to match any contract offer Van Demark receives from another team during free agency. This move triples his current salary, which was $1.03 million in 2025, marking a substantial financial commitment from the organization. Van Demark, 28, is a restricted free agent and can negotiate with other teams until April 17. If he signs an offer sheet with another club, the Bills have five days to match it. However, because Van Demark entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent, the team would not receive draft compensation if they decline to match an offer. The tender suggests the Bills believe he could attract interest in the open market, despite his growing role on the team. Van Demark has been a key part of the Bills’ offensive line for the past three seasons. He appeared in 43 games over that span, including all 17 contests in 2025. His snap count has steadily increased, rising from 47 in 2023 to 199 in 2024 and 312 in 2025, when he played 28% of Buffalo’s offensive snaps. His role has expanded from primarily serving as a swing tackle to becoming a reliable backup for starters Dion Dawkins and Spencer Brown, whom he has replaced when they missed time. The tender comes as the Bills continue to build depth on their offensive line. Earlier this offseason, they re-signed guard Alec Anderson to a one-year contract worth $3 million, including $1.8 million guaranteed. Anderson could compete for the starting left guard position vacated by David Edwards, who left for the New Orleans Saints.#buffalo_bills #new_orleans_saints #spencer_brown #ryan_van_demark #dion_dawkins
Giants Show Interest in Former Bills Guard Ryan Bates During Free Agency The New York Giants made a move in week two of NFL free agency by visiting with veteran interior offensive lineman Ryan Bates, a former starting guard for the Buffalo Bills. The visit, noted in the NFL transaction log, marks the team’s attempt to secure a backup or depth option at the guard position. Bates, 29, spent three seasons with the Bills under head coach Joe Schoen before joining the Chicago Bears in 2024 and 2025. Bates, an undrafted prospect from Penn State, had a brief stint as a full-time starter in 2022, when he played 15 games at right guard for the Bills. However, his production has declined significantly in the past three seasons, with limited playing time due to injuries. He has started just eight games since 2022 and has appeared in 103 total contests, mostly as a backup and special teamer. Despite his limited starting experience, the Giants’ interest suggests they see value in his familiarity with Schoen and his potential as a reliable depth player. The Giants’ free agency strategy has been unconventional, with significant cap spending on positions like tight end, punter, and fullback rather than traditional priorities like offensive line. While they re-signed right tackle Jermaine Eluemunor and added wide receivers Calvin Austin and Darnell Mooney, their focus on atypical positions has raised questions about their approach to key roles like guard. The team’s interest in Bates comes amid a broader free agency landscape where top-tier guards like Alijah Vera-Tucker and Tyler Linderbaum were out of reach. With new head coach John Harbaugh emphasizing a smashmouth style that prioritizes a strong rushing attack, the Giants’ offensive line depth remains a concern.#buffalo_bills #new_york_giants #john_harbaugh #ryan_bates #joe_schoen
Free agent center Ryan Bates visits Giants The New York Giants extended an invitation to free agent center Ryan Bates for a visit on Monday, as the team looks to add depth to its offensive line. Bates, 29, is entering his third season as a free agent after spending the past two years with the Chicago Bears. The Giants are seeking a reliable backup to starter John Michael Schmitz Jr., who has been a key contributor for the team. Bates began his NFL career in 2019 with the Buffalo Bills, where he spent five seasons. During his time with the Bills, he appeared in 73 games, starting 19 of them. His most productive season came in 2022, when he started 15 games at left guard. After leaving the Bills, Bates was acquired by the Bears in 2024 in exchange for a fifth-round draft pick. In his two seasons with the Bears, Bates played in 19 games, starting two of them. However, his tenure with the team was marked by injury challenges. He spent two stints on injured reserve during the 2024 season, first due to shoulder and elbow issues early in the year and later after sustaining a concussion toward the end of the season. Despite these setbacks, Bates has remained a consistent presence on the field when healthy, and his experience could make him an attractive option for the Giants as they prepare for the upcoming season.#buffalo_bills #chicago_bears #new_york_giants #ryan_bates #john_michael_schmitz_jr
Darius Slay: No team can call me but the Eagles Darius Slay has stated that the Philadelphia Eagles are the only team that can sign him for the 2026 season, expressing his strong preference for returning to the franchise. The 35-year-old cornerback, who previously played for the Eagles from 2020 to 2024, revealed his stance in a social media clip he re-posted. In the video, Slay emphasized that no other team can contact him, saying, “No team can call me but Eagles. No team can call me, everybody knows.” Slay’s comments come after he was waived by the Pittsburgh Steelers last season and claimed by the Buffalo Bills. Despite being signed by the Bills, he chose not to participate in their roster, instead attending an Eagles playoff game in Philadelphia. His decision to prioritize the Eagles over other opportunities highlights his deep connection to the team. The Eagles, who previously drafted Slay in 2016, are his most notable professional affiliation. During his four seasons with the team, Slay won a Super Bowl title and was selected to three Pro Bowls. His tenure with the Eagles also included a stint with the Detroit Lions from 2013 to 2019 and a brief 10-game appearance with the Steelers in 2025. Slay’s potential retirement looms if he does not re-sign with the Eagles. The team’s interest in retaining him would be critical, as his experience and leadership could be valuable in their defensive strategy. His public declaration underscores the significance of the Eagles in his career trajectory, positioning them as his sole option for continued play.#buffalo_bills #philadelphia_eagles #pittsburgh_steelers #super_bowl #darius_slay
Former Pittsburgh Steelers Cornerback Announces Retirement from NFL A former Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback has officially announced his retirement from the NFL after a 13-year career. Darius Slay, who played for the team in 2025, shared his decision on his Instagram page, expressing gratitude for the opportunities football provided and reflecting on his journey. Slay, a second-round draft pick by the Detroit Lions in 2013, spent seven seasons with the franchise before moving to the Philadelphia Eagles. During his time with the Lions, he earned three Pro Bowl selections and one first-team All-Pro honor. With the Eagles, he added three more Pro Bowl nods and a Super Bowl championship. His brief stint with the Steelers included 10 games in 2025 before he was waived near the end of the season. After being claimed by the Buffalo Bills off waivers, Slay chose not to report to the team, citing personal reasons. “It wasn’t a bad fit. They just caught me at a bad time,” he explained. “I talked to them, it was like a little mutual talk, but I said, ‘Hey, I’m 34 man. I know y’all be watching tape but I’m trying to relax with my family and kids.’ I ain’t feel like packing up and moving. Then, on top of that, no offense to Buffalo (but) it’s cold as hell. I’m from the south, baby. We don’t know what snow looks like.” Slay’s career highlights include his role as a key defensive player for multiple teams, with his contributions recognized through numerous Pro Bowl selections. His decision to retire marks the end of a decorated career, and he is expected to be considered for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. The announcement also included a heartfelt message to his fans, acknowledging their support throughout his journey.#buffalo_bills #philadelphia_eagles #pittsburgh_steelers #detroit_lions #darius_slay
Buffalo Bills Sign Former Miami Dolphins Pass Rusher Bradley Chubb to Three-Year, $43.5 Million Contract The Buffalo Bills have signed two-time Pro Bowler Bradley Chubb to a three-year, $43.5 million deal, according to reports from NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport, Mike Garafolo, and Tom Pelissero. The contract includes $29 million in guaranteed money and could total up to $52.5 million if incentives are met. Chubb, a 29-year-old edge rusher, becomes the latest addition to the Bills’ defensive front after being released by the Miami Dolphins as part of their salary cap restructuring efforts. Chubb’s departure from Miami was confirmed in mid-February, with the Dolphins officially releasing him on Wednesday. The move allowed him to explore free agency before his post-June 1 designation became official. Chubb quickly found a new opportunity, signing with the Bills less than an hour into the new league year. The decision marks a significant shift for the former first-round pick, who spent four seasons with the Dolphins after missing the 2024 season due to an ACL injury. During his time with Miami, Chubb recorded 8.5 sacks, two forced fumbles, and 47 tackles in 17 games in 2025, his final season with the team. Over three seasons with the Dolphins, he totaled 22 sacks, 133 tackles, nine forced fumbles, and three fumble recoveries in 41 games. However, his tenure was marked by instability, as the Dolphins’ defense was coached by three different coordinators over the past four campaigns. The Bills’ decision to sign Chubb mirrors a similar move made by general manager Brandon Beane in 2025, when he signed Joey Bosa to a one-year, $12.6 million deal.#buffalo_bills #ian_rapoport #mike_garafolo #miami_dolphins #bradley_chubb
Buffalo Bills Adjust Salary Cap Strategy with Roster Cuts and Contract Changes As the new league year begins, the Buffalo Bills face the challenge of navigating the NFL salary cap, which has officially reached $301.2 million. General Manager Brandon Beane and his team at One Bills Drive are working to ensure compliance by the March 11 free agency deadline while creating enough cap space to pursue free agent signings. Beane emphasized that their approach involves multiple strategies, including restructuring contracts and potential player releases, to balance financial flexibility with roster stability. Beane acknowledged the complexity of the process, noting that conversations with players about restructures or pay reductions could help retain talent while freeing up cap space. For instance, offensive tackle Spencer Brown’s contract was restructured earlier this week, saving the team $10.4 million. A similar rework of quarterback Josh Allen’s deal is expected to unlock an additional $12 million. Other potential adjustments may involve offensive lineman Dion Dawkins and defensive lineman Ed Oliver, though Beane cautioned against over-reliance on future savings. The Bills have already made several roster cuts to address cap constraints. Cornerback Dane Jackson was released, ending his second stint with the team after 59 career games. Safety Taylor Rapp, who started 18 of 30 games in his first two seasons, was also let go, freeing up $3 million in cap space and $666,000 in dead money. Wide receiver Curtis Samuel, signed for $24 million over three years in 2024, was released after underwhelming performances, saving $6.1 million. The most significant cut involved Taron Johnson, the team’s first-round pick in 2017 and a second-team All-Pro in 2023.#buffalo_bills #josh_allen #brandon_beane #one_bills_drive #spencer_brown
Bills' Josh Allen Restructures Contract to Create Cap Space Josh Allen has restructured his contract with the Buffalo Bills, creating $12 million in cap space for the 2026 season, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. This adjustment is designed to accommodate the addition of wide receiver DJ Moore, who finished the 2025 regular season with a career-low 682 receiving yards. Moore, who will turn 29 in April, is expected to contribute more in 2026 as he joins a Buffalo offense featuring running back James Cook, wide receiver Khalil Shakir, and tight end Dalton Kincaid as key weapons. Allen, who is recovering from surgery to address a broken bone in his right foot, is projected to be ready for training camp, though initial reports suggest a recovery timeline of 8 to 10 weeks. He is currently in the early stages of his rehabilitation and is expected to participate in full practices by the time spring training begins. The restructuring of Allen’s contract is part of the Bills’ efforts to manage their salary cap and position themselves for future success. With Moore’s potential impact and the existing talent in the offense, the team aims to build a competitive roster for the upcoming season. This development comes as Allen continues his recovery process, with updates indicating he is progressing well and should be cleared to return to full activity soon. The team’s focus remains on ensuring Allen is fully prepared for the 2026 season, which will be critical for their playoff aspirations. The move also provides flexibility for the Bills to address other roster needs while maintaining financial stability. The restructuring highlights the team’s strategic approach to balancing long-term goals with immediate demands.#buffalo_bills #dj_moore #josh_allen #adam_schefter #james_cook
Buffalo Bills restructure Josh Allen’s contract to create 2026 salary cap space The Buffalo Bills made a strategic move to adjust quarterback Josh Allen’s contract on Wednesday, a decision that aligns with previous restructuring efforts aimed at managing salary cap constraints. The adjustment allows the team to create immediate financial flexibility while spreading the financial impact across future seasons. Allen, entering his ninth season in the NFL, will see his 2026 salary cap hit reduced to $44.2 million through a combination of salary conversions and bonus allocations. Under the revised terms, Allen’s base salary for 2026 drops to $1.3 million, while $15.2 million of his remaining salary is converted into a signing bonus. This restructuring lowers the team’s cap commitment for the year by $12 million, providing the Bills with additional room to pursue free-agent signings or draft picks as the new league year begins. The move reflects a pattern of using prorated bonuses to manage cap space, a strategy the team has employed in previous seasons. The adjustment does not alter the long-term structure of Allen’s contract, which spans multiple years. By spreading the bonus payments across future seasons, the Bills avoid a significant financial burden in the short term while increasing the dead cap charge associated with Allen’s contract. The dead cap number, which represents the financial liability the team would face if Allen were traded or released, now exceeds $173 million. If the team were to trade Allen, the dead cap liability would be reduced to $138 million. This decision underscores the Bills’ commitment to maintaining their competitive window while keeping Allen under contract.#buffalo_bills #josh_allen #brandon_bean #salary_cap #dead_cap
