After a remarkable 2024 season that saw the Buffalo Bills score a franchise-record 525 points and quarterback Josh Allen earn the NFL Most Valuable Player award, the team is focusing on optimizing its roster for continued success. Head coach Sean McDermott is considering adjustments to the depth chart this offseason, particularly to solidify weak spots and sustain the team’s momentum heading into 2025.

General Manager Brandon Beane has already made moves, notably adding wide receiver Josh Palmer after the departure of Amari Cooper. The Bills also face key decisions about returning players, such as safety Cole Bishop, whose health and performance will influence the secondary’s strength.

Competition at Safety Spot Centers on Cole Bishop’s Return

Selected 60th overall in the second round of the 2024 NFL draft, Cole Bishop was expected to fill a critical starting role at safety. Unfortunately, a shoulder injury during training camp limited his rookie season impact. Despite this setback, Bishop has worked to regain his place and participated early in offseason practices to prepare for the 2025 campaign.

Bills beat reporter Sal Capaccio indicated that Bishop is likely to be given an opportunity to reclaim his starting job, provided he remains healthy.

I think it’s really the only true starting position that’s available on this team right now. like I mean if you want to say safety and Cole Bishop, well that’s just up to Cole Bishop. If he’s healthy, he’s a starting safety. I don’t think there’s any question in my mind about it. I could be wrong about that. But I just don’t think there’s a question there,

Capaccio said on The Bulldog talk with Mike Schopp.

Although Bishop saw limited reps during June minicamp, his playing time is expected to increase as training camp begins on July 23. However, the safety will face competition, especially from Damar Hamlin, who has impressed while filling in during Bishop’s absence. The team has not guaranteed Bishop a starting position, emphasizing merit and performance during camp.

Bills’ Quarterback Backup Role Enters Uncertainty

Josh Allen, the Bills’ starting quarterback since 2018 and a key figure in team decisions, may see changes behind him on the depth chart. Veteran Mitch Trubisky, Allen’s current backup and longtime teammate, appears to be in a precarious position as the offseason progresses. Trubisky’s future as the Bills’ No. 2 quarterback faces growing doubt ahead of the 2025 season.

Trubisky initially joined Buffalo as a free agent in 2021, then spent a brief period with the Pittsburgh Steelers before returning to the Bills. The addition of Mike White last season has intensified speculation about a potential replacement for Trubisky on the roster.

Syracuse.com reporter Ryan Talbot expressed a prediction regarding Trubisky’s status:

This prediction may not be as bold as the others. But Mitch Trubisky’s time as the Bills’ No. 2 quarterback comes to an end this summer,

he said, reflecting on the recent developments. While Trubisky has shown solid performances previously, White’s aggressive and dynamic style offers the team a different option at the backup quarterback position.

Minicamp display is another factor influencing the team’s decision, with Trubisky not distinguishing himself during practices. As The Athletic’s Joe Buscaglia observed,

When the Bills signed Mike White to a two-year deal late in the season, that was a fairly significant signal that the team could look to replace Trubisky this upcoming season,

revealing a shift in management’s thinking. Nonetheless, no official announcement has yet been made regarding Trubisky’s place on the roster.

Implications for Buffalo’s 2025 Season Depth

With Josh Allen continuing his elite-level play as the franchise quarterback, the Bills are carefully evaluating the supporting roles that contribute to overall team success. The uncertainty surrounding Mitch Trubisky’s backup spot reveals the competitive atmosphere within the team’s quarterback room. The possible exit of a seasoned player like Trubisky could open opportunities for emerging talent or recent additions like Mike White.

Meanwhile, the situation in the secondary, particularly regarding Cole Bishop’s fitness and ability to reclaim a starting safety role, will be critical for the Bills’ defensive stability. The Bills’ ability to maintain a healthy and competitive roster will determine how effectively they can repeat or improve upon their recent high-scoring season.

Training camp starting July 23 will be a pivotal period, offering insight into how the depth chart will shape up before the regular season begins. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see which players secure starting roles and how these roster changes influence Buffalo’s prospects in the AFC and the wider NFL landscape.