Bills face Steelers in preseason finale as roster cuts near

The Buffalo Bills will conclude their 2026 preseason at home on Thursday night against the Pittsburgh Steelers, a game that could determine the final composition of the roster. General manager Brandon Beane told a podcast that roughly 50 players are locked in, leaving only a few spots open. He said special-teams versatility will be a factor, but the team will not sacrifice depth at a position solely for a special-teams role.

Beane also explained that the Bills did not bring in another kicker this offseason to avoid competing with the punter during training camp, expressing confidence in Tyler Bass after his perfect 5-for-5 performance, which included a 52-yard field goal. Bass remains the sole kicker on the roster, and each of his appearances will be closely evaluated.

The punt-return position appears to be leaning toward Ray Davis, who posted a 12-yard return in the previous game and has taken the first reps. Mecole Hardman, his main competitor, did not practice this week, leaving Davis as the likely candidate and potentially saving a roster spot.

Quarterback depth is also in focus. Coach Joe Brady said he hopes to see fourth-round pick Skyler Bell get snaps with backup quarterbacks Kyle Allen and Shane Buechele, who are competing for the second-string role. Bell, who was productive at UConn but has dealt with injuries, will have his best chance to showcase his abilities before the team finalizes its roster for the regular season.