The Buffalo Bills made their moves during the 2026 NFL Draft, adding 10 draft picks and 12 undrafted free agents to the roster. While the team may not have made a blockbuster splash, they brought in some intriguing talent that could be ready to make an immediate impact come September. Here's a look at four rookies who have the best shot at earning starting snaps in Week 1.
First up is cornerback Davison Igbinosun, the Bills' second second-round selection. He's set to challenge Maxwell Hairston for the starting job opposite Christian Benford. Igbinosun, a product of Ohio State, has some technique issues to clean up, but his trajectory is promising. Over his final two seasons with the Buckeyes, he showed solid cornerback play and drastically cut down on penalties. Hairston currently has the inside track as CB2, but a telling offseason comment from General Manager Brandon Beane—calling cornerback a top priority—suggests the team is serious about competition. Buffalo went out of their way to draft an athletic corner who adds depth and could push for that starting spot.
Next is wide receiver Skyler Bell, drafted in the fourth round. Bell brings versatility to the table, capable of lining up in multiple positions on the field. While Joshua Palmer and Keon Coleman currently sit ahead of him on the perimeter depth chart, a move up isn't out of the question. Palmer underwhelmed in his first year with Buffalo, and Coleman's lack of reliability has put his roster spot in question. Bell's route-running skills and speed give him the ability to create separation and become a reliable target for Josh Allen—something the Bills could use.
Finally, keep an eye on punter Doman. When a team uses a draft pick on a specialist, it signals a clear desire for an upgrade. Incumbent Mitch Wishnowsky ranked 28th in the league last season with an average of 45.3 yards per punt, so the Bills are looking for more consistency and power in the kicking game.
These rookies may not be household names yet, but each brings a skill set that could earn them a starting role when the Bills open the 2026 season. For fans looking to gear up and support the next generation of Buffalo talent, staying stocked in Bills apparel is a must.
