The Buffalo Bills fell short of their ultimate goal once again in 2025, and the aftermath has been packed full of drama and confusion. But as they enter the offseason, Brandon Beane is tasked with building a roster that can finally make it over the hump in 2026.
Before speculating about major moves that the Bills could make in free agency or the trade market, we first have to look at how they can retain their most important pending free agents.
The Bills might be limited in terms of cap space, but Beane needs to do whatever it takes to keep these three veterans in Buffalo.
3 Bills veterans Brandon Beane needs to keep for 2026
Connor McGovern
The Bills' biggest strength in 2025 was their rushing attack. While James Cook had a tremendous season, he wouldn't have led the league in rushing without the elite play of his offensive line.
Center Connor McGovern was one of the most important pieces on that front. After promoting Joe Brady to head coach, the Bills should fight for continuity along the offensive line. The 28-year-old will likely double his yearly salary this offseason, but it would still be worth it to re-sign him.
David Edwards
Unfortunately, Beane has more than one interior offensive lineman to worry about this offseason. Guard David Edwards is set to hit free agency, too, and he could earn an even bigger contract than McGovern. Still, the Bills should do whatever is necessary to keep him in the building.
After finding Edwards on such an inexpensive deal over the last few years, the Bills shouldn't be arrogant enough to assume that they can repeat their success with another draft pick or low-cost free agent. Instead, Beane must bring back the proven talent, even if it means restricting his financial flexibility elsewhere.
A.J. Epenesa
It looks like there isn't much that the Bills will be able to do to keep Joey Bosa around. The veteran revived his career in Buffalo, and he'll earn a major payday this offseason because of it. But Beane can't afford to lose two of his top three edge defenders in one offseason. He needs to do what it takes to keep A.J. Epenesa around.
Spotrac estimates that Epenesa's market value this offseason will hover around $6.4 million. It would be a slight increase in pay from his current contract, but Beane shouldn't hesitate to get a deal done.