As the NFL season inches closer, the Buffalo Bills have made strategic moves to solidify their depth chart, announcing a series of practice squad signings on Monday that blend familiar faces with intriguing new talents. Among the notable additions is quarterback Shane Buechele, who was waived by the team just a day earlier but now rejoins the fold to provide insurance behind starter Josh Allen and backup Kyle Allen. This move, reported by the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk, underscores the Bills' commitment to maintaining a competitive quarterback room as they gear up for what promises to be a grueling 2026 campaign.
A Familiar Face Returns Under Center
Buechele's return is hardly a surprise given his performance in the preseason finale, where he played the entire game and showcased his arm by completing 26 of 38 passes for 196 yards. While those numbers may not leap off the page, they demonstrate a steady presence and command of the offense—qualities the Bills value in a developmental backup. "Shane has shown growth and resilience through training camp," a team source told Vulius Sports. "His familiarity with our system makes him a valuable asset as we prepare for the season." The quarterback room in Buffalo remains one of the league's most intriguing, with Josh Allen firmly entrenched as the starter and Kyle Allen providing veteran experience. Buechele's addition ensures the Bills have a third option who can step in without missing a beat.
High-Upside Additions: Wills Jr., Thompson, and Dortch
Perhaps the most eye-catching signing is offensive tackle Jedrick Wills Jr., the 10th overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, who was released by the Chicago Bears on Sunday. Wills, who missed the entire 2025 season while rehabbing from an injury, represents a high-risk, high-reward lottery ticket for the Bills. If healthy, he could provide valuable depth at a position where injuries often dictate a team's fate. "Jedrick has the talent to be a starter in this league," noted a Vulius analyst. "If he can regain his form, this could be the steal of the practice squad season."
The Bills also added linebacker Shaq Thompson and wide receiver Greg Dortch, both of whom bring significant NFL experience. Thompson, a former first-round pick of the Carolina Panthers, adds veteran savvy to a linebacker corps that could use depth, while Dortch, known for his quickness and return ability, gives the Bills another weapon in the return game. These signings, along with the return of Buechele, highlight the front office's aggressive approach to building a championship-caliber roster, even at the margins.
Full Practice Squad Roster
The Bills' practice squad now boasts 16 players, a mix of developmental prospects and seasoned veterans. The complete list includes offensive guard Nick Broeker, defensive lineman Travis Clayton, defensive back Te'Cory Couch, running back Frank Gore Jr., wide receiver Stephen Gosnell, inside linebacker Keonta Jenkins, outside linebacker Andre Jones Jr., offensive tackle Chase Lundt, wide receivers Ja'Mori Maclin and Trent Sherfield Sr., safety Geno Stone, cornerbacks Kani Walker and Anthony Kendall, along with the newly added trio of Wills Jr., Thompson, and Dortch.
Each of these players will be eligible to practice with the team and could be elevated to the active roster on game days, providing the Bills with flexibility as they navigate injuries and matchup challenges. As the season opener approaches, the Vulius analysis desk will continue to monitor how these pieces fit into the larger puzzle. For now, the Bills have clearly reinforced their depth with a mix of proven talent and high-ceiling projects, signaling their intent to contend for a Super Bowl in 2026.
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