The Buffalo Bills are gearing up for the next phase of their offseason workouts, with mandatory minicamp kicking off on Tuesday, June 9. This marks a pivotal moment for the team as they transition from Organized Team Activities (OTAs) to a more structured environment where both rookies and veterans will further integrate into the systems being implemented by head coach Joe Brady, offensive coordinator Pete Carmichael, and defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard.
During OTAs, the Bills’ coaching staff got their first look at how players are adapting to the new schemes on both sides of the ball. For the rookies, it was a chance to showcase their talents in various drills, ranging from 7-on-7 to full team 11-on-11 scenarios.
Brandon Beane, the Bills’ president of football operations and general manager, shared his insights on the progress seen during OTAs. Speaking on “One Bills Live,” Beane expressed his satisfaction with how Carmichael and Leonhard have clearly communicated expectations to the players, ensuring everyone understands their roles within the schemes. He was particularly pleased with the performance of the rookie class, who were thrown into the mix and managed to hold their own.
“The coaching staff has just thrown in some of these young guys. Jude Bowry has jumped in at left tackle.
Skyler Bell has jumped in there in a decent amount. Kaleb Elarms-Orr has played a lot with the first team defense as we work Terell Bernard back.
It’s been fun to kind of just see these guys learn on the fly. Is everything perfect?
No, but it’s been cool to see them [on the field],” Beane commented.
Beane is also looking forward to seeing defensive tackle Ed Oliver take on more responsibilities in the three technique position, while also being utilized at nose tackle in certain packages. “Ed’s gonna have more opportunities to have one-on-ones. Obviously, Ed’s got to go win those, and we know he can and excited about what that’ll look like when we get those pads on,” Beane said.
The excitement extends beyond the rookies, as cornerback Christian Benford and defensive tackles T.J. Sanders and Deone Walker shared their enthusiasm for Leonhard’s base 3-4 defense.
Meanwhile, tight end Dawson Knox highlighted the potential of Buffalo’s talented tight end room, and Travis Clayton reflected on his new role at defensive tackle. Defensive tackle DeWayne Carter is also making strides to secure his spot within Leonhard’s defense.
In other Bills news, with the recent high-profile trades by teams like the Los Angeles Rams and New England Patriots, there’s speculation about whether Brandon Beane might consider a similar “all-in” move. Additionally, ESPN’s extensive simulations are predicting how the 2026 season might unfold, and there are whispers of trade talks linking the Bills to New Orleans Saints’ running back Alvin Kamara. Plus, fans can look forward to the official ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new Highmark Stadium.
Stay tuned, Bills fans, as the team continues to shape its roster and strategies for the upcoming season.
