The 2026 NFL Draft featured the Buffalo Bills going into the event with only seven picks, but they managed to walk away with ten selections. They traded a great amount of times, including three times in the first round, which led to them gaining extra draft capital.
Now that they are added to the roster, it’s going to be time to see what they bring to the table. Heading into their first season in the pros, we have put together a list of superlatives for each rookie and what fans could very well see from them in 2026.
First-year superlatives for Bills 2026 rookie class
T.J. Parker: Most likely to reach 5+ sacks
Buffalo’s first draft selection is set to join a room that has Bradley Chubb and Greg Rousseau, both who will be able to help T.J. Parker grow as his rookie season goes on. With Jim Leonhard’s new defensive scheme set to feature a lot of pressure up front, Parker will have the chance to show exactly why the Bills got a steal in him in the second round.
Davison Igbinosun: Most likely to surprise Bills fans the most
The Bills shocked the fanbase when they didn't just trade back up into the second round, but they did it to acquire Ohio State cornerback Davison Igbinosun. Cornerback didn't feel like the biggest need for the Bills, but they needed depth and Igbinosun not only provides that, but it wouldn't surprise me if he eventually becomes a starter ahead of Maxwell Hairston in the future.
For his rookie season, I believe he will be the biggest surprise for fans and show that the Bills knew something that a lot of people did not.
Judy Bowry: Most likely to show he will be starting LG in 2027
One of the biggest storylines heading into training camp later this month is the left guard position. Right now, it seems like it will be between Alec Anderson and Austin Corbett. However, I wouldn't rule out Jude Bowry getting a legit chance to compete for the job...as well as showing that he can be the starter at the position next season. While Bowry was primarily a tackle in college, the Bills will be looking to utilize him at guard as well.
Skyler Bell: Most likely to have Bills make tough Keon Coleman decision
When the Bills drafted wide receiver Skyler Bell, it brought out a ton of joy amongst Bills Mafia as he is a perfect fit for Joe Brady’s offense. He can play inside and outside, and he has great ability after the catch. If he can make a serious impact in his first season with the Bills, he could put the front office in a tough spot with Keon Coleman in 2027 (especially if Coleman once again disappoints in 2026).
Kaleb Elarms-Orr: Most likely to be best rookie from Bills' draft class
If you don’t know who Kaleb Elarms-Orr is by now, make sure you do soon. Buffalo drafted him out of TCU just one pick after the selection of Skyler Bell and he looks to be the replacement for Matt Milano. While Elarms-Orr may start behind Terrel Bernard and Dorian Williams, I think it’s only a matter of time before he gets on the field more and more as the 2026 season goes on. If there is one player who has the best chance to shine in his rookie year, it’s Elarms-Orr.
Jalon Kilgore: Most likely to be forgotten about (but shouldn't be)
With all of the moves the Bills made at safety this offseason (signing C.J. Gardner-Johnson, Geno Stone, and bringing back Damar Hamlin), 5th-round rookie Jalon Kilgore has a massive uphill battle to make this roster. However, he is a great run-supporting safety that could very well be a potential starter after 2026. But it wouldn’t be surprising if he is overlooked this season.
Zane Durant: Most likely to become an Ed Oliver-like player
This is a very bold superlative, but Zane Durant has a similar play style as Ed Oliver. They aren’t huge defensive tackles, but they are quick in the gap attacks. Durant more than likely won’t make a huge impact, but training camp could show us how similar he is to Oliver which could be something to work with moving forward.
Toriano Pride Jr.: Most likely to get extra playing time than expected
The Bills’ secondary has had some bad luck when it comes to injuries over the last few years. While you always hope that injuries stay away, they are unfortunately always bound to happen. When injuries happen, it's a time for other guys to step up. That's where Toriano Pride Jr. comes into play and he could very well get more playing time than expected.
Tommy Doman Jr.: Most likely to win punter competion before preseason
The Bills drafted their punter of the future in Tommy Doman Jr., who will compete with Mitch Wishnowsky for the starting job. Wishnowsky only signed a one-year deal to return to the Bills but it just makes sense for Doman Jr. to win the competition in training camp. It would be a shock if this is an actual competition in the preseason.
Ar'maj Reed-Adams: Most likely to spend 2026 season on practice squad
With all of the depth that the Bills have on the offensive line, Ar'maj Reed-Adams will more than likely spend the season on the practice squad. Unless injuries pop up or the Bills are benching their starters at the end of the regular season before the playoffs, Reed-Adams may not even play a single snap for the Bills in 2026.
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