Buffalo Bills Biggest Needs for 2025: Free Agency & Draft Targets

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The Buffalo Bills enter the 2025 offseason with several key questions regarding their roster construction. Despite years of investments in the defensive line, the team still finds itself in need of serious upgrades at both defensive tackle and defensive end. With free agency and the NFL Draft approaching, General Manager Brandon Beane faces a crucial decision: should the Bills take a big swing in the trade market, or will they focus on smaller, strategic depth additions?

Defensive Line Woes: A Lingering Issue

The Bills have repeatedly tried to solidify their defensive front over the years, investing in both free agency and the draft. Players like Greg Rousseau, Boogie Basham, A.J. Epenesa, and even the high-profile signing of Von Miller were meant to elevate the pass rush, yet the results have been mixed at best.

Buffalo’s defensive tackle group has also struggled with consistency. Ed Oliver has been a strong contributor, but he has never fully developed into a dominant, game-wrecking force. His effectiveness seems tied to having a solid presence beside him. When DaQuan Jones was healthy, the duo played at a high level, but injuries and age have raised concerns about whether Jones can be relied upon as a long-term solution.

Last year’s third-round draft pick, Dwayne Carter, has potential, but he did little in his rookie season to solidify confidence that he will be a major contributor in 2025. With a lack of high-end talent at defensive tackle, the Bills are expected to target the position early in the draft or seek an impactful addition through free agency.

The Von Miller Dilemma

Von Miller’s tenure in Buffalo has been underwhelming. After signing a massive contract, Miller showed flashes of his elite ability early on but suffered a major injury that has significantly slowed his production. In 2024, he was primarily used as a situational pass rusher, and with a cap hit nearing $17 million, it’s fair to question whether he’s worth keeping around.

If the Bills can renegotiate his deal to a more team-friendly number, his veteran presence could still be valuable. Otherwise, moving on from Miller might be the best option to create much-needed cap flexibility.

Potential Free Agency & Trade Targets

Buffalo has options when it comes to improving their defensive line. Big-name players like Myles Garrett and Trey Hendrickson have been floated as potential trade targets. While these moves would come at a significant cost in draft capital, landing a premier edge rusher could drastically change the trajectory of the defense.

Other names to watch include:

• Maxx Crosby (recently re-signed with the Raiders, no longer an option)

• Tyler Lockett (released by the Seahawks, though more of an offensive asset)

• DK Metcalf (requested a trade, though adding another receiver isn’t Buffalo’s top priority)

• Sam Hubbard (retired, impacting Cincinnati’s decision on Hendrickson)

Buffalo could also look at veteran free agents such as Jordan Phillips, Quinton Jefferson, and Austin Johnson, though none of these names would be significant game-changers.

How Much Cap Space Can Buffalo Create?

The Bills are currently sitting at around negative $10 million in cap space, but they have several ways to free up room. If Beane restructures contracts and makes a few roster moves, Buffalo could generate between $50-70 million in cap space, giving them more flexibility than in previous years. This would allow them to make a splash in free agency while still being able to extend key players.

The Draft’s Role in Fixing the Bills’ Issues

If Buffalo decides to address its defensive line through the draft, they’ll need to make smart choices. They hold their first-round pick and could look at top defensive tackles or edge rushers early. However, reaching for a player simply because of positional need is a risk.

Brandon Beane typically ensures the Bills don’t enter the draft with glaring holes, using free agency to fill immediate needs. This approach allows Buffalo to target the best available talent rather than forcing a pick. Still, defensive tackle and defensive end should be top priorities unless the team makes significant moves in free agency or via trade.

What About Offensive Upgrades?

While most of the focus is on the defensive side of the ball, Buffalo could still use some help on offense. Wide receiver DK Metcalf has been linked to trade rumors, but acquiring him would require significant assets. Additionally, improving the offensive line could indirectly help the passing game by giving Josh Allen more time to operate.

Still, upgrading the defensive line should be priority No. 1. If the Bills can build a dominant front four, they will be much better equipped to handle quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes and Joe Burrow in the playoffs—something they have struggled with in recent years.

Final Thoughts: How Should Buffalo Approach This Offseason?

Buffalo’s biggest needs are clear: improve the defensive line, create cap space, and make smart decisions in free agency and the draft. Whether Beane decides to go all-in on a superstar like Miles Garrett or opts for a more balanced approach, one thing is certain—the Bills cannot afford to ignore their defensive line issues any longer.

How do you think Buffalo should handle this offseason? Should they make a blockbuster trade or focus on depth? Drop your thoughts in the comments!

Go Bills!

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