The Buffalo Bills knew from the jump they wouldn’t be able to preserve their entire offensive line that helped James Cook lead the NFL in rushing in 2025. After locking in Connor McGovern at center on a four-year, $52 million contract, it was obvious to Bills Mafia that left guard David Edwards wouldn’t be returning.
During the NFL’s legal tampering period on Monday, Edwards found his new home. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Edwards and the New Orleans Saints have agreed on a massive, four-year, $61 million deal.
Bills guard David Edwards gets his massive payday from New Orleans Saints
The Saints have been busy during the early stages of free agency, as they also have an agreement in place with Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Ettiene to beef up their offense. The franchise is heading into Year 2 under head coach Kellen Moore, whose offense finished 28th in rushing a season ago.
Edwards will no doubt make a positive impact in that regard, as he did over the past three seasons in Buffalo. While Edwards isn’t considered an elite player despite his hefty new contract, he was one of the best at his position on the open market. Pro Football Focus graded Edwards’ 2025 season with a 71.4 overall, and 69.0 in run blocking specifically. He allowed just three sacks and was called for three penalties on the season.
Edwards, who is from Illinois by way of the Wisconsin Badgers football program, has an interesting connection in his new home, where recently retired former Buffalo Bill offensive lineman Will Clapp has a new job as an assistant offensive line coach in New Orleans. That should help Edwards hit the ground running in his new home.
As for the Bills, there’s some level of expectation that Alec Anderson could step in at left guard. Of course, draft options exist in the middle rounds if they’re interested in a backup plan.Â
As for the top options in the free agency pool, new offensive line coach Pat Meyer is familiar with Pittsburgh Steelers left guard Isaac Seumalo, having worked with him throughout his time with the black and gold. Veterans like Joel Bitonio and Wyatt Teller from Cleveland are more comfortable fits, though their age raises concerns about the viability of inserting them into the lineup. Younger options like Teven Jenkins, also from Cleveland, or Zion Johnson from the Chargers, won’t cost nearly as much, but also still have a lot of room to grow at the NFL level.