Buffalo Bills initial 2026 roster carries a few surprises

Posted by Admin September 2, 2026 NFL

Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NFL. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Bills fans and fans across the country.

It’s time again for Reacts, Rumblers! The Buffalo Bills have just set their initial 53-man roster and filled out the team’s first iteration of the 17-man practice squad. We’ve had no shortage of conversation about Buffalo’s roster around these parts, but we had yet to ask you to weigh in on it.

By and large, most of Bills Mafia appears excited about the moves made by president of football operations/general manager Brandon Beane and first-time head coach Joe Brady. Everyone knows, though, that hardly anything is ever universally agreed upon.

In that realm, we’re curious to find out what Rumblers found to be the biggest surprise in the wake of both rosters’ makeup. Was it four tight ends making the 53-man roster? Maybe not if you believe that Dalton Kincaid, Dawson Knox, Jackson Hawes, and Keleki Latu will all play significant roles this season.

Was it the fact that zero fullbacks made the roster or practice squad? Maybe not if you see the move to keep four tight ends behind this decision.

What about the numbers at defensive tackle? Six players seems like a lot even considering heavy rotation. Buffalo also has Travis Clayton on the practice squad, plus rookie Zane Durant on Injured Reserve/return, and also Phidarian Mathis set to return after beginning the season with a three-game suspension.

Then there’s the running back conversation. Did Gore’s inclusion on the practice squad over Ian Wheeler surprise you most?

Rookie cornerback Toriano Pride Jr. generated some buzz this offseason, but he was the only player the Bills drafted this past April who didn’t stick with the team at final cut downs. It’s possible One Bills Drive hoped to add him to the practice squad after he cleared waivers, but the Cleveland Browns had other plans for him. Now, Pride is on the Browns’ active roster, instead of hoping to make it onto Buffalo’s in time.

It’s also possible that nothing surprised you, whether among this grouping or otherwise. I’d point out that this poll intended to include the option of six edge rushers/outside linebackers making the 53-man roster. It’s definitely a curious development. Overall, there are a lot of roster spots tied up in the defensive line and pass rushers.

So, take a second to vote and sound off in the comments section below!