Several members of the Buffalo Bills became free agents this offseason and still remain unsigned. While some could be contributors for a team and sign just before or during training camp, others may have played their last NFL game in a Bills uniform.
- QB Matt Barkley 2020 All-22 Analysis / Contract Projection
- RB T.J. Yeldon Contract Projection
- RB Devonta Freeman (Practice squad)
- WR Kenny Stills (Practice squad)
- DE Trent Murphy 2020 All-22 Analysis / Contract Projection
- LB Darron Lee (Practice squad)
- CB E.J. Gaines
- CB Josh Norman 2020 All-22 Analysis / Contract Projection
Norman might be the most likely name on the list to re-sign with Buffalo. A solid-not-spectacular cornerback at this stage in his career, he started three games and played in nine total for the Bills in 2020 as the third CB. With former UDFA Levi Wallace signed for near league minimum and 2020 seventh rounder Dane Jackson the top competition, Buffalo could use another body at cornerback.
The most recognizable name on the list for Bills fans is probably Murphy, who made 35 starts in three seasons with the Bills. His playing time dwindled to just 33 percent of the team’s defensive snaps in his final season and Buffalo continued their defense end overhaul by drafting two young edge rushers this offseason. He won’t be returning.
Backup QB Matt Barkley was replaced by Mitchell Trubisky in an upgrade this offseason. An injury at the QB position is the most likely path back to a roster for Barkley, whether with the Bills or elsewhere. That’s how he originally came to Buffalo in the first place.
Freeman, Stills, and Lee were three veteran players the Bills kept on the practice squad last year. While many fans were excited about what the trio could bring to the table, only Lee saw the field for Buffalo appearing in two games and making a single tackle.
E.J. Gaines was cut by the Bills at the end of the year following his 2020 season as a COVID-19 opt out.
Yeldon was essentially replaced when the Bills signed Matt Breida this offseason.