Preseason Game 2: Depth Battles, Surprises, and Key Returns

The Bills just wrapped up their first week of practice after their first preseason game. The vibe has totally flipped. The Bills are sharper, healthier, and starting to look dangerous. As we approach Week 2 of the Preseason, there are some position battles to keep an eye on. 

QB2 Battle: Who’s Got Josh’s Back?

Josh Allen is obviously the guy — no debate there. What a great feeling considering what it was like trying to feel good about that position post Jim Kelly. But the question every fan is asking: who’s holding the clipboard behind him? Mitch Trubisky seems to be a clear frontrunner at this point. Unless Mike White massively out plays Trubisky, I can't see White getting the #2 spot. McDermott already said Trubisky’s getting the nod for the preseason opener. 

Let’s be real, if Allen ever missed serious time, the offense changes completely. But in short bursts? Both Trubisky and White look like they can keep the ship afloat. This battle is far from over, and it’s going to be fun watching it unfold under the lights. Personally, I'd rather see us save some money on the cap, keep White and take our chances. 

WR Room: Is Six the Magic Number?

Now here’s where things get spicy. The Bills usually roll with five wideouts — but this year, the room is stacked. Locks right now: Khalil Shakir, Josh Palmer, rookie Keon Coleman, Curtis Samuel, and Elijah Moore. That’s five. Done deal, right?

Not so fast. Tyrell Shavers has made a strong case for a roster spot, and McDermott even gave him props for his toughness. With injuries to Shakir and Samuel popping up, the team might not have a choice but to roll with six. And honestly? With depth guys like Jalen Virgil, Deon Cain, Kristian Wilkerson, Laviska Shenault, and even rookie Stephen Gosnell flashing here and there — why not?

If there was ever a year to break the mold and keep six WRs, this feels like it. Special teams contributions out of a 6th WR will be hugely important. 

Safety Watch: Rapp + Bishop = The Future?

The safety spot has been a little shaky without Micah Hyde and Jordan Poyer locked in. Early in camp, both Taylor Rapp and rookie Cole Bishop were banged up, which made things dicey. But now? Both are back on the field, getting reps, and starting to build some rhythm together.

That’s huge. Bishop brings range and physicality, Rapp brings experience, and together they could anchor the next era of Buffalo’s secondary. Damar Hamlin and Cam Lewis have been holding things down, but the Bills need Rapp and Bishop healthy and clicking if this defense wants to be elite.

Final Take

Injuries have made this camp a little rocky, but you can feel the momentum building. The QB2 battle is heating up, the WR room is the deepest it’s been in years, and the safety spot is stabilizing at just the right time. 

Bills fans — the second preseason game against the Bears is tonight. Get ready, because we’re about to see all these battles play out under the lights. Getting healthy and staying healthy is really the biggest priority from tonight. If we can stay healthy, I think the rest will work itself out. 

All 32 teams will have to cut their rosters down to 53 players by August 26, 2025. This is the single deadline for roster cuts, meaning teams can still begin cutting players earlier in the preseason if they choose, but the final cut to 53 must be made by that date.

Here's a more detailed breakdown: Single Cutdown Day: Unlike previous years where there were multiple cutdown days, the NFL now has one deadline for teams to reduce their rosters to 53 players. August 26th Deadline: By 4:00 PM ET on August 26th, all teams must have 53 players on their active/inactive list. Potential for Earlier Cuts: Teams can choose to make cuts earlier in the preseason, but the final roster must be 53 players by the deadline. 

What bubble players do you think should make the team?

Should the Bills roster 6 WR's and if so, what position group will need to take a hit?


0 comments

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.

Accesss the full collection of articles here!

The Buffalo Depot Beat

More news and stories here!

See More Articles

Shop by collection