Sep 14, 2025; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; Buffalo Bills fullback Reggie Gilliam (41) after the game against the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium. Robert Deutsch-Imagn Images

Bills Lose Five Free Agents during NFL Negotiating Period as New League Year Begins

Originally posted on Buffalo Bills on SI
By Ralph Ventre | Last updated Mar 11, 2026 4:43 PM ET

The Buffalo Bills entered the NFL Free Agency negotiating period with 20 players set to hit the open market, and five of those pending free agents agreed to join new teams.

While the Bills were able to keep starting center Connor McGovern , they were forced to let their other highly-touted free agent walk. Starting left guard David Edwards is going to the New Orleans Saints on a four-year, $61 million contract.

In addition to the interior lineman, the Bills' offense lost its fullback and backup quarterback in free agency. Reggie Gilliam is heading to the AFC East rival New England Patriots and Mitch Trubisky is going to reunite with offensive coordinator Brian Daboll as a member of the Tennessee Titans.

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On defense, the Bills' watched two depths players reach agreements with other clubs. Defensive back Cam Lewis, a UB product, is joining the Chicago Bears. Safety Darnell Savage, who was a late in-season addition last year, has reportedly agreed to a one-year contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

In addition to McGovern, the Bills re-signed two specialists. Special teams ace James Franklin earned a multi-year deal while the Bills decided to bring back punter Mitch Wishnowsky for one year.

Buffalo reached an agreement with restricted free agent offensive lineman Alec Anderson early in the offseason. As for tackle Ryan Van Demark, the team issued him the right of first refusal tender prior to the deadline.

With 11 unrestricted free agents remaining on the market, the Bills are likely exploring the idea of retaining a few.