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The Buffalo Bills enjoyed their first scheduled day off of 2026 training camp on Friday, following just two days of on-field work. With the brief pause, an analysis of the team's early practices reveals shifting dynamics at the bottom of the roster, particularly at linebacker, where Keonta Jenkins has made a strong impression.
Jenkins has been consistently running with the second-team defense alongside Kaleb Elarms-Orr during individual drills and walk-throughs, while Terrel Bernard and Dorian Williams have paired as the first-team duo. This development places Jenkins ahead of Joe Andreessen, who has served as a reserve for the past two seasons, in the early battle for a roster spot.
Key Position Battles and Projections
At quarterback, Shane Buechele appears to have edged ahead of Kyle Allen for the backup role after Allen threw an interception on Thursday. The running back group is expected to include James Cook, Ty Johnson, Ray Davis, and Ben VanSumeren, with Ian Wheeler impressing as a receiver and potentially surpassing Frank Gore Jr. for a spot.
Wide receiver projections have DJ Moore, Khalil Shakir, Skyler Bell, Keon Coleman, and Joshua Palmer as locks, with Trent Sherfield filling the final spot due to Tyrell Shavers' PUP status. However, the team might pivot to a punt returner like Mecole Hardman Jr. or Dante Pettis if Coleman doesn't secure that duty.
On the offensive line, Alec Anderson and Austin Corbett continue to compete for the starting left guard position. The defensive line features Ed Oliver and Deone Walker as starters, but depth remains uncertain, with Phidarian Mathis currently projected over DeWayne Carter, who is recovering from a torn Achilles.
At edge rusher, Bradley Chubb, Greg Rousseau, TJ Parker, and Michael Hoecht are set, with Mike Danna and Javon Solomon vying for the final spot. The cornerback group sees Maxwell Hairston favored for the CB2 role, while undrafted free agent Kani Walker has impressed enough to be projected over seventh-round pick Toriano Pride.
Safety projections include Cole Bishop and C.J. Gardner-Johnson as starters, with Geno Stone, Jalon Kilgore, and Sam Franklin Jr. rounding out the group, leaving Damar Hamlin on the practice squad. Special teams remain stable with Tyler Bass, Tommy Doman Jr., and Reid Ferguson, though the punter competition is still open.