Every year, NFL training camps ignite with unexpected standout performances, and the Buffalo Bills’ 2025 camp is no exception. This annual tradition offers a thrilling glimpse into potential roster shake-ups, as general manager Brandon Beane and head coach Sean McDermott maintain an open mind toward upstart players who can outplay the competition and earn their way onto the coveted 53-man roster, even if it means making high-profile cuts to accommodate these summer surprises.
Among the wide receivers, Wilkerson has emerged as a significant surprise, capitalizing on multiple injuries within the position group. He has consistently filtered into first-team reps, culminating in a prominent role during recent three-receiver sets with Josh Allen. This rise is particularly notable given the absence of Curtis Samuel, Elijah Moore, and Tyrell Shavers from team drills, creating a clear opportunity that Wilkerson has seized with impressive consistency, putting him squarely in the discussion for a Buffalo Bills roster spot.
While Wilkerson’s path to the 53-man roster remains challenging, potentially requiring the Bills to keep six receivers and unseat a veteran, his early summer performance has undeniably forced his name into conversations. Historically, the Bills have shown a willingness to retain under-the-radar players who excel in camp, such as Khari Lee or Quintin Morris, demonstrating that continued success in practices and preseason games could ultimately compel the team to make a difficult decision.
On the offensive line, Mike Edwards has quietly solidified his position as another impactful under-the-radar player. Initially known as “the other Mike Edwards,” his consistent performance as an undrafted rookie last summer earned him a practice squad spot for the entire season. Now, with key interior offensive line injuries to Sedrick Van Pran-Granger and Alec Anderson, Edwards has stepped into a primary role with the second-team unit, showcasing his potential as a valuable NFL prospect.
Edwards’ physical profile is impressive; standing at 6-feet-5 and 363 pounds, his surprising 89th percentile 3-cone drill for a player of his size highlights remarkable agility. This athleticism, combined with his successful transition from college offensive tackle to NFL guard, positions him strongly. Should the Buffalo Bills feel confident in his development, he could bypass the waiver wire and secure a full-time spot, especially if Anderson’s injury leads to an Injured Reserve stint.
The defensive tackle room, despite significant offseason additions like Larry Ogunjobi and rookies T.J. Sanders and Deone Walker, features another dark horse in Logue. His potential stems from positional scarcity, specifically at the one-technique defensive tackle spot. While Walker and Carter have primarily played this role, their early camp performances have lacked consistency. Logue, a 6-foot-6, 314-pound run defender, could provide crucial depth and stability, offering a valuable skill set that addresses a potential weakness despite less pass-rush upside.
At linebacker, Thompson presents a compelling storyline of a veteran seeking a career revival. Despite tearing his Achilles last September and signing with the Bills in June with no guaranteed money, the 31-year-old has defied expectations, delivering standout performances in training camp. With Dorian Williams sidelined by a calf injury, Thompson has seized the opportunity for increased reps, looking remarkably agile and effective in coverage and against the run, demonstrating he is a significant NFL surprise player.
Furthermore, the Bills have seen several players return from injury, including Elijah Moore, Dawson Knox, and Tyrell Shavers, although their participation in team drills was limited. Spencer Brown has also been removed from the PUP list, indicating a potential return to practice soon. Injury concerns continue with Maxwell Hairston (knee brace, crutches), Joshua Palmer (unspecified injury), and Alec Anderson (scoped knee), all of which could open further doors for these under-the-radar prospects and shape the final Buffalo Bills roster decisions as training camp progresses.
