The Buffalo Bills are entering a new era under head coach Joe Brady, and with that comes plenty of questions—especially on the defensive side of the ball. As the team prepares to shift to a 3-4 base defense, new defensive coordinator Jim Leonard has fans buzzing with cautious optimism. But before we look ahead, it's worth taking a closer look at where the Bills' defense stands right now, particularly with so many key contributors from the 2025 roster still lingering on the free agent market.
Earlier this year, Vic Carucci of WGRZ reported on a telling meeting between head coach Sean McDermott, general manager Brandon Beane, and team owner Terry Pegula. According to the report, McDermott voiced concerns about what the roster lacked to compete for a Super Bowl—and his assessment reportedly didn't sit well with Beane or Pegula. Fast forward to today, with the 2026 free agency period nearly two months old, and that tension seems to be reflected in the numbers.
A surprising number of defensive players who saw significant playing time in 2025—20% or more of snaps—are still unsigned. That list includes some familiar names who were central to Buffalo's defensive efforts last season.
At defensive end, Joey Bosa (57% of defensive snaps) and A.J. Epenesa (45%) remain available. Epenesa, who also contributed on 20% of special teams snaps, had a one-year deal with the Cleveland Browns fall through after a failed physical. The defensive line depth is also thin, with Daquan Jones (43%), Jordan Phillips (21%), and Larry Ogunjobi (21%) all still on the market.
Linebacker is another area of concern. Matt Milano and Shaq Thompson are both free agents, and while injuries have taken a toll on Milano's production, he still managed to play over 50% of snaps last season. Thompson stepped up admirably when called upon, but neither has found a new home yet.
For Bills fans, this roster uncertainty is a reminder of just how much work lies ahead. The new coaching staff has a vision, but filling the gaps on defense will be critical if Buffalo hopes to take that next step. Whether through re-signing familiar faces or finding fresh talent, the decisions made in the coming weeks could shape the identity of this team for years to come.