With the turn of the page to the 2026 offseason, the Buffalo Bills' front office has immediately begun shaping the periphery of next season's roster. On January 26, 2026, the team announced the signing of 12 players to reserve/future contracts, a standard procedure where players not on an active NFL roster at season's end are signed to deals that take effect with the new league year in March.
This group is a mix of young developmental talent and experienced veterans looking to latch on. The most recognizable names include running back Frank Gore Jr., the son of the legendary Bills and NFL rusher, and wide receiver Mecole Hardman Jr., a veteran speedster and multi-time Super Bowl champion. Gore Jr., who is not a rookie, spent time on the Bills' practice squad in 2025. Hardman brings a proven track record as a deep threat and return specialist.
The list also features several players who finished the 2025 season on the Bills' practice squad, including defensive tackle Tommy Akingbesote, linebacker Jimmy Ciarlo, offensive lineman Travis Clayton, and defensive back Te'Cory Couch. External additions include cornerback M.J. Devonshire, defensive tackle Keith Cooper Jr., offensive lineman Braeden Daniels, and tight end Cole Turner.
In separate practice squad moves this week, the Bills signed veteran kicker Matthew Wright and released offensive lineman Richard Gouraige. They also signed kicker Maddux Trujillo to a reserve/future deal, indicating a planned competition for the kicking job in training camp. These signings represent the first layer of roster construction for the 2026 season, focusing on building camp competition and depth at key positions before the major waves of free agency and the NFL Draft begin. The futures of many core players, including numerous pending free agents, remain the primary focus for General Manager Brandon Beane and new head coach Joe Brady.