The Buffalo Bills have announced several roster changes ahead of Thursday’s practice. Defensive back Sam Franklin Jr. has been signed to the active 53-man roster after initially joining the team’s practice squad on August 27. Franklin Jr., who began his NFL career in 2020 as an undrafted free agent with the Carolina Panthers, is recognized for his contributions on special teams.
“He’s a safety by position, but he’s made his name on special teams in this league,” said general manager Brandon Beane when Franklin Jr. joined the team. “A standout gunner, kick cover player.”
In addition to adding Franklin Jr., the Bills placed defensive tackle DeWayne Carter on injured reserve following an Achilles injury suffered during practice.
The team also added kicker Matt Prater to the practice squad. Prater brings nearly two decades of NFL experience and most recently played for the Arizona Cardinals from 2021 to 2024, where he converted 86 out of 101 field goal attempts. Over his 18-year career, Prater has played for Atlanta, Denver, Detroit, and Arizona, making a total of 407 field goals. He holds the record for most field goals made from at least 50 yards with 81 and has connected from distances as far as 62 and 64 yards.
Wide receiver Gabe Davis is returning to Buffalo as a member of the practice squad after spending time with the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2024. Davis appeared in ten games and scored two touchdowns before a season-ending knee injury in November. During his first four seasons with Buffalo, Davis recorded 163 catches for 2,730 yards and scored 27 touchdowns over 64 games. He will be designated as practice squad/injured due to his recent injury.
