Three Second-Year Bills Players Facing Tough Odds to Make the 53-Man Roster in 2025
The Buffalo Bills’ 2024 rookie class has completed its first year, and while there’s optimism, development remains crucial—particularly for top picks Keon Coleman, Cole Bishop, and DeWayne Carter. Each dealt with injuries that hampered their progress. Bishop showed promise late in the season and could emerge as a starter, but Coleman and Carter remain question marks.
Running back Ray Davis stood out as the top performer from that class. He thrived as the second option behind James Cook and could step into the lead role if Cook isn’t re-signed after 2025.
Despite being just one year removed from being drafted, some players now face serious competition following the team’s offseason moves. Here are three sophomores who may struggle to secure a spot on the final 53-man roster:
1. DE Javon Solomon
While Solomon’s situation isn’t dire, the depth chart at defensive end is crowded. The Bills added veterans Joey Bosa and Michael Hoecht and drafted Landon Jackson, a potentially high-value pick. With established players like Greg Rousseau and A.J. Epenesa also in the mix, Solomon’s path to a roster spot is uncertain.
2. DT DeWayne Carter
Carter, a third-round pick last year, missed time due to a wrist injury and was inactive late in the season. Already behind Ed Oliver and DaQuan Jones, Carter must now compete with newcomers Larry Ogunjobi, T.J. Sanders, and Deone Walker—all brought in this offseason, with the Bills trading up for Sanders and Walker. Carter may make the roster, but he must impress during training camp to do so.
3. CB Daequan Hardy
Hardy’s challenge lies in sheer competition. The Bills re-signed Tre’Davious White and drafted three cornerbacks, including first-round pick Maxwell Hairston. Though Hardy excelled as a return specialist in college, his special teams role is threatened by players like Laviska Shenault and Brandon Codrington. Hardy faces a steep climb to stick with the team.
