Last offseason, the Buffalo Bills took a risk by signing the productive, yet oft-injured, Joey Bosa on a short-term deal. They needed help in their pass rush, and the veteran provided an inexpensive fix. Bosa was inconsistent in Buffalo, but he did produce five sacks and make some game-changing plays late in the season. After his one-year deal expired, the Bills had to look elsewhere to replace his production.
They're making the same gamble in 2026.
Moments after Bradley Chubb was officially released by the Miami Dolphins, the Bills scooped him up. Per Adam Schefter, the edge rusher agreed on a three-year contract worth $43.5 million with Buffalo, including $29 million in guarantees. The Bills had to make a splash at the position, and Chubb quickly became their answer.
Bills sign Bradley Chubb as Joey Bosa replacement
Like Bosa, Chubb comes with a few risks. He has dealt with a few serious injuries that raise concerns about his long-term viability. When on the field, he's consistently effective.
The former top-five draft pick had back-to-back seasons with double-digit sacks in 2023 and 2024. Even in a down year in 2025, he put consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks. He's a solid run defender, too, offering more versatility than Bosa gave the Bills. The Dolphins released him as part of an effort to clear cap space, but the 29-year-old is still an effective defender.
The contract may seem a bit rich for a player coming off a release, but the Bills were desperate for help in their pass rush. Gregg Rousseau is a solid starter, but they were lacking quality elsewhere at the position. A.J. Epenesa is still a free agent, and Landon Jackson didn't show much to get excited about in his rookie year. The contract could have been much worse for a player with a proven track record. With somewhat limited guarantees, Buffalo can likely get out of the deal after two seasons if things go poorly.
Other teams in the AFC are making a push for a championship in 2026. As the Baltimore Ravens and Kansas City Chiefs add key pieces to their rosters, the Bills had to respond. They already helped out their offense by adding D.J. Moore. Now, they've addressed one of their biggest needs on defense. If this move works out as well as the Bosa signing did, the Bills could finally be on their way to a title run in 2026.