We are just a week away from the Buffalo Bills’ highly anticipated 2024 season opener. The long offseason wait is nearly over, and Bills Mafia is buzzing with excitement to finally watch their team in action. The Bills will kick off their season at home against Kyler Murray and the Arizona Cardinals.
With the final roster now set, fans can shift their attention to the players who made the cut for the 53-man watch roster. The most notable story from the final roster cuts was the inclusion of Buffalo native linebacker Joe Andreessen. However, not everyone was fortunate enough to secure a spot.
At the conclusion of each preseason, General Manager Brandon Beane faces tough decisions on which players to retain and which to release. Fortunately, Beane was able to bring back several players to the practice squad. In recent years, the Bills have had practice squad members step up during the regular season, whether to provide depth or fill in due to injuries. When these players are called up to the active roster, they must seize the opportunity.
There are four specific practice squad players who could see action with the Bills this season.
OL Will Clapp
Protecting franchise quarterback Josh Allen is paramount, and while the Bills have their starting offensive line set, having Will Clapp on the practice squad is a major asset due to his valuable starting experience. It’s a surprise that the Bills managed to retain him.
Buffalo has strong confidence in Connor McGovern and rookie Sedrick Van Pran-Granger, but Clapp serves as excellent insurance in case something happens to the interior of the offensive line.
WR Tyrell Shavers
Tyrell Shavers generated significant buzz during the preseason, earning respect from both players and coaches. At one point, he seemed poised to push his way onto the roster, potentially overtaking players like Chase Claypool and Marquez Valdes-Scantling. However, an underwhelming preseason performance diminished his chances of making the final cut.
In fairness to Shavers, poor quarterback play hindered his opportunities. Although Shavers won’t immediately see playing time, there’s a strong chance he could be called up if the Bills’ new wide receiver corps underperforms.
CB Daequan Hardy
It was somewhat surprising when the Bills released Daequan Hardy during roster cuts. Drafted by Buffalo this year, Hardy had special teams experience that made him a candidate for returning punts and kickoffs. Despite the Bills’ tendency to go heavy in the secondary, Hardy didn’t do enough during training camp and preseason to secure a spot.
However, since he was drafted by the current regime, they likely see potential in his development. Hardy may have a better chance than most to see increased playing time this season.
RB Frank Gore
A fan favorite, Frank Gore Jr. was the highest-rated running back to watch throughout the preseason, according to Pro Football Focus. The Bills signed him as an undrafted free agent after the draft. Despite his impressive preseason performance, the crowded running back room—featuring James Cook, Ty Johnson, and Ray Davis—left Gore Jr. as the odd man out. However, if injuries arise in the Bills’ backfield, Gore Jr. could be called up and might even get a few carries.
