Bills' Linebacker Woes: Draft or Free Agency?

As the NFL Draft approaches, the Buffalo Bills are focusing on bolstering their linebacker corps for the 2026 season. The team's transition to an odd-man front necessitates additions, particularly at inside linebacker. While Terrel Bernard and Dorian Williams are currently slated as starters, the statuses of free agents Matt Milano and Shaq Thompson are undecided.

The Bills currently possess about $13 million in salary cap space. This figure accounts for the estimated $4.3 million cost to sign draft picks, leaving limited funds for additional player acquisitions. Further financial flexibility may be achieved by restructuring contracts, such as Dion Dawkins' $24.8 million cap hit.

Both Milano and Thompson present potential return options, though their contract demands may differ. Milano's projected average annual value is $4.5 million, whereas Thompson's is $2.3 million. Pursuing external free agents like former Colts linebacker Germaine Pratt, a proven run defender, is also a viable strategy for the Bills to address their needs.