The Buffalo Bills built one of the NFL’s best offensive lines around continuity, but that formula took a hit this offseason. David Edwards, who started 16 games at left guard for the Bills in 2025 and both playoff contests, departed in free agency. He landed a four-year, $61 million deal with the New Orleans Saints.
The Bills have enjoyed remarkable continuity along the offensive line over the past two seasons, with Edwards a steady anchor in that run. That unit ranked first in the AFC at 159.6 rushing yards per game in 2025, helping All-Pro running back James Cook III lead the league in rushing. Replacing that kind of stability won’t be easy.
Bills Eye Austin Corbett, Alec Anderson to Fill Left Guard Void
Per ESPN, the Bills are heading into an open competition at the position. Buffalo signed veteran Austin Corbett from the Carolina Panthers to help fill the void, while Alec Anderson re-signed on a one-year, $3 million deal. Both are expected to compete for the starting job in training camp.
Corbett, a 6-foot-4, 306-pound swing lineman, brings versatility, having also taken reps at center during his time in Carolina, where he started 11 regular-season games. Anderson, meanwhile, brings familiarity with the system and a reported edge mentality that Edwards lacked.
The Bills also used a fourth-round pick on tackle Jude Bowry in the 2026 draft, with analyst Dane Brugler noting a move inside to guard might be in his long-term best interest. Bubble players including Tylan Grable and Chase Lundt add depth to the mix.
One veteran still available is Joel Bitonio. The seven-time Pro Bowler hit free agency after 12 seasons in Cleveland, and in 2025 started all 17 games while allowing just two sacks and posting a 75.7 pass-blocking grade ranking among the top 10 guards in the NFL. Bitonio has said he is still weighing retirement and has not committed to playing in 2026. If he decides to suit up for one more season, Buffalo would be an ideal landing spot for a veteran chasing a ring.
The Bills open the 2026 season at the new Highmark Stadium, where a shaky left guard situation could test the line protecting Josh Allen from the jump.
