Bills evaluate 14 fringe players ahead of final roster cuts

Buffalo will finish its 2026 preseason against Pittsburgh on Thursday, and the final roster decisions are expected on Aug. 30. General manager Brandon Beane faces a crowded bubble, with 14 players competing for the last four or five roster spots.

Rookie punter Tommy Doman Jr. has seen his lead over Mitch Wishnowsky narrow after a shaky performance against the Browns, though he remains the favorite. Offensive tackle Jude Bowry, currently on the injured reserve list, could be retained on IR, a move the team has used frequently in recent years.

The staff has identified six players likely to make the roster, including quarterback Kyle Allen, center Lloyd Cushenberry III, tackle Tylan Grable, outside linebacker Javon Solomon, inside linebacker Joe Andreessen and safety Damar Hamlin.

Among the bubble candidates are wide receiver Mecole Hardman, who is being evaluated primarily as a punt returner, and fellow receiver Trent Sherfield, who performed well against the Browns and could be kept on the practice squad. Tight end Keleki Latu, fullback Ben VanSumeren, guard Ar’maj Reed-Adams, and center Sedrick Van Pran-Granger are also under consideration.

Defensive prospects include defensive linemen DeWayne Carter and veteran Greg Gaines, outside linebacker Mike Danna, inside linebacker Keonta Jenkins, cornerback Kani Walker and seventh-round pick Toriano Pride Jr. Safety Geno Stone remains a strong candidate for the backup role.

The Bills also have several players listed as reserves or on the physically unable to perform list, including defensive lineman Phidarian Mathis and wide receiver Tyrell Shavers, as well as a group of players likely to be released.

The final cuts will determine whether the team retains additional depth at offensive line, defensive line, linebacker or secondary positions, or opts to stash players on injured reserve or the practice squad.