Four 2024 Bills Draft Picks Poised for Bigger Roles in 2025
Heading into the 2025 NFL season, the Buffalo Bills are counting on several second-year players to take on larger roles. While the team used the 2025 draft to address key defensive needs—particularly along the defensive line and at cornerback—they left some positions relatively untouched, such as safety, running back depth, and linebacker. This suggests confidence in the development of some of their 2024 draft picks.
1. WR Keon Coleman
As Buffalo’s first pick in the 2024 draft, Keon Coleman is expected to play a larger role in the upcoming season. Despite a promising start, his rookie year was derailed by a mid-season injury. With the departure of Mack Hollins and the addition of Elijah Moore and Joshua Palmer, Coleman is positioned to be the team’s primary big-bodied receiver. The Bills are counting on him to become a consistent target for Josh Allen in 2025.
2. LB Edefuan Ulofoshio
While linebacker depth wasn’t a major focus in the 2025 draft, Edefuan Ulofoshio could emerge as a key contributor. After serving primarily on special teams as a rookie, Ulofoshio is a candidate for an expanded role, especially with veterans Matt Milano and Baylon Spector set to hit free agency after the season. He could become the third linebacker behind Terrel Bernard and Dorian Williams by 2026.
3. S Cole Bishop
Cole Bishop is expected to make a significant impact in 2025 after a rookie season limited by a preseason injury. Once healthy, Bishop saw more playing time due to injuries in the safety group and showed potential. With strong support from the coaching staff, Bishop is likely to play a major role in the secondary this year.
4. RB Ray Davis
With uncertainty surrounding James Cook’s contract situation, Ray Davis could see increased opportunities in 2025. Davis was a productive backup as a rookie and performed well when given the start during Cook’s absence. If contract issues persist or injuries arise, Davis is a strong candidate to earn more touches in the offense.
