Buffalo, NY . May 2026
The Buffalo Bills entered OTAs hoping several young defensive prospects could emerge as surprise contributors ahead of training camp.
Instead, two of the organization’s most promising rookie defenders now find themselves off the roster following alarming medical developments.
According to reports, Buffalo has waived rookie linebacker Theron Gaines and rookie safety Jalon Kilgore after separate health-related incidents during offseason workouts.
The decision follows reports that Gaines suffered a significant ankle injury during OTA practices, an injury that could potentially sideline him for the entire 2026 season.
The former Tennessee Tech standout arrived in Buffalo carrying one of the most inspiring stories in this year’s rookie class.
After transforming himself from an overlooked recruit into an FCS All-American, Gaines was viewed by many evaluators as a legitimate candidate to earn a roster spot through special teams and defensive depth contributions.
His final collegiate season included 92 tackles, 13.5 tackles for loss, 6.5 sacks, an interception, and two defensive touchdowns.
Kilgore’s situation generated even greater concern after reports surfaced describing a frightening collapse during a conditioning session at the Bills’ practice facility.
Witnesses claimed the rookie safety lost consciousness before medical personnel rushed onto the field and transported him for emergency evaluation.
The incident reportedly shook teammates and coaches, forcing head coach Sean McDermott to immediately halt all remaining practice activities.
Prior to the medical scare, Kilgore was regarded as one of Buffalo’s most athletic young defensive backs and a developmental prospect with long-term upside.
While neither rookie had officially secured a place on the final roster, both players were viewed as realistic candidates to compete throughout training camp.
The Bills have not publicly disclosed detailed medical information regarding either player’s condition, but the organization ultimately elected to move forward with roster adjustments.
For Gaines and Kilgore, the path to an NFL career becomes significantly more difficult, though not necessarily over.
Both young defenders possess enough talent to attract future opportunities once healthy enough to resume football activities.
For now, however, Buffalo’s offseason takes a disappointing turn as two promising rookie stories come to an abrupt and unfortunate pause.
