Bills Face Guard Dilemma: Edwards' Future Uncertain

The Buffalo Bills' offensive line, a consistent unit in recent seasons, faces potential upheaval with left guard David Edwards nearing free agency. Edwards' future with the team is uncertain as Buffalo grapples with being approximately $12.3 million over the salary cap. This financial challenge makes retaining Edwards, who signed a 1-year, $1.77 million deal in 2023 and later a 2-year, $6 million extension, a difficult prospect.

Edwards has demonstrated significant improvement, starting every regular-season game for the Bills over the past two seasons when starters were not rested. His 2025 performance earned him a 71.4 Pro Football Focus grade, ranking 19th out of 81 guards, and a 95% pass-block win rate, which was 12th among qualifying guards. These metrics suggest he could command substantial compensation on the open market.

Should the Bills be unable to reach a new agreement, they could consider applying the franchise tag, projected to cost around $28 million for an offensive lineman in 2026. This option appears even more expensive than a long-term deal, emphasizing the need for cap flexibility. If Edwards departs, Alec Anderson, a more affordable restricted free agent who showed promise in 2025, is a potential internal replacement. With the NFL's franchise tag window open and free agency tampering starting March 9, Buffalo has limited time to make critical decisions.