Buffalo Bills free agents and cap cuts who might not be back in 2026 The Buffalo Bills face significant roster decisions as they navigate a crowded salary cap and a new defensive scheme under head coach Joe Brady. With the team over the salary cap and restructuring contracts, several key players may not return in 2026. Free agency begins March 11, and the 2026 salary cap is projected at $301.2 million, a $22 million increase from 2025. The Bills have already re-signed some players but are expected to cut others to align with their financial and strategic goals. Dawson Knox, the team’s tight end, is a notable candidate for release. Signed through 2026, Knox carries a $17.1 million cap hit, the fourth-highest on the roster. A pre-June 1 cut could save the Bills $9.7 million, while a post-June 1 designation would save $12 million. Knox acknowledged in January that his cap number is “huge” and that his future with the team is uncertain. Despite his 2025 performance—417 receiving yards, four touchdowns, and 36 receptions—he faces competition from younger players like Jackson Hawes and Keleki Latu. Connor McGovern, the center, is another unrestricted free agent. He shifted from guard to center in 2024 and made the Pro Bowl, starting 49 games over the past three seasons. His $16.3 million annual market value may make him difficult to retain, especially with guard David Edwards also in play. Edwards, projected at $19.9 million annually, has been a reliable starter but faces pressure to make room for younger talent. Curtis Samuel, the wide receiver, signed a $24 million contract in 2024 but struggled with injuries and limited playing time in 2025. He recorded just seven receptions for 81 yards and one touchdown, prompting the Bills to consider cutting him to save $6.1 million.#buffalo_bills #joe_brady #dawson_knox #connor_mcgovern #curts_samuel
