After 11 practices at St. John Fisher University, the Buffalo Bills have returned to Orchard Park to continue their preseason training ahead of roster cuts at the end of August.
Quarterback Josh Allen was named offensive MVP of training camp following his performance in Rochester. General manager Brandon Beane said, “You see a calm, confident dude who knows what he has to do in the offseason. He’s always prepared when he shows up. He’s not coming here unprepared, and I think his teammates, when he’s in the huddle, they’re as calm as ever just having Josh Allen in there.” Allen focused on building chemistry with new receivers such as Joshua Palmer and Elijah Moore during camp.
On defense, cornerback Christian Benford received MVP honors for his consistency throughout camp. Nickel cornerback Taron Johnson praised Benford: “I think he is the best corner in the NFL.” Benford is stepping into a larger leadership role this season and emphasized improving his technique and communication with teammates. “I’ve really just been working on technique, fundamentals, just making sure I’m sharp from play 1 to the end of the practice,” Benford said. “Just making sure my mental is strong…challenging myself to step out of my comfort zone and talk more and interact more with different players.”
Rookie defensive tackle T.J. Sanders was recognized for his impact after being drafted by Buffalo earlier this year. Sanders commented on adjusting to professional football: “I feel like every day is just growing… We are putting new things in every day, just trying to get adjusted. And I feel like I’ve been doing a pretty good job of that.”
The offensive line was highlighted as the most consistent unit on offense after allowing only 14 sacks last season—fewer than one per game—and aiming for further improvement this year. Center Connor McGovern stated, “We all want to take that next step forward because we didn’t finish off the year the right way, the way we wanted to… Make sure the whole offense is just one unit, not just the offensive line.” Offensive coordinator Joe Brady added that teaching linemen more about quarterback responsibilities helps reduce pressure on Allen: “As much as we can teach the offensive line, the centers, if they can see it from a quarterback’s perspective, they can at least get it started for Josh and not make Josh have to do it all.”
Defensive tackle Ed Oliver was noted for his steady presence during camp practices in Rochester entering his seventh NFL season. Head coach Sean McDermott remarked on Oliver’s growth: “He’s actually playing better… And then he’s just matured and grown, become more and more of a professional every season, including this training camp.”
Among newcomers on offense, wide receiver Joshua Palmer drew attention for quickly developing rapport with Allen. The quarterback described Palmer’s strengths: “I mean separation that he can create with his feet… He’s just an easy guy to throw to…” Palmer spoke about their work together after plays: “I’m going to him, and I’m saying ‘Is that where you wanted me to be?’ And asking for feedback…”
On defense, new signing Joey Bosa impressed coaches following recovery from injury issues earlier this year. Bosa shared about returning healthy: “It’s been the story of my last four years… But this year I definitely feel tip top and speed, strength is good.”
Cornerback Tre’Davious White was named training camp surprise after returning from two major injuries since leaving Buffalo following 2023; general manager Brandon Beane said on White’s first day back: “I see him confident. I’m never going to bet against Tre White.” White discussed finally having an offseason without rehab restrictions: “This is the first off season in three or four years where I put in a lot of work and wasn’t limited…”
Second-year defensive end Javon Solomon was cited as most improved player at camp due largely to increased comfort within Buffalo’s system; Solomon explained how confidence made a difference: “Just the ability to be comfortable in your own skin… The ability to constantly get better is always a huge thing in our room…” Defensive coordinator Bobby Babich added praise: “I said it the other day; I’ve seen a lot of growth from Javon.”
The team will continue preparations through preseason before finalizing its roster later this month.
