Aug. 8
The Buffalo Bills wrapped up training camp at St. John Fisher University on Thursday, although Head Coach Sean McDermott is quick to point out that camp continues, only now in Orchard Park as the club gears up for the preseason.
ALLEN, STARTERS TO GET SOME RUN
The Bills first-team offense and defense will play roughly a quarter in the Bills preseason opener on Saturday against the Bears at Highmark Stadium, McDermott announced on Thursday. That includes star quarterback Josh Allen. McDermott said Allen having game reps with his new group of wide receivers was baked into the decision to trot the starters out there likely for a series or two. While Allen said earlier in the week that preseason action was a not a necessity for him at this point in his career, the Bills clearly see the value in the experience only playing in a game can provide. So for those who want a look at the Bills new-look attack under Joe Brady, you’ll get a glimpse (albeit greatly simplified from a regular season game) on Saturday. I don’t mind Allen playing a little bit in the preseason, as the Bills have customarily done throughout their franchise signal caller’s tenure. However, any sort of injury to Allen could prove disastrous, but the risk-reward evaluation for McDermott and Co. favors letting Allen take some snaps.
MVS ROLLERCOASTER RIDE
WR Marquez Valdes-Scantling has been making a push with stronger play during the second half of training camp as he grows more acclimated with the offense and Allen. But as is the case with several of the Bills receivers, it’s up-and-down from a consistency perspective, even in practice. On Thursday, Valdes-Scantling flashed his downfield pass catching ability when he raced past a cornerback and Allen connected with him on a deep ball for a big gain before MVS was caught crossing the field by S Taylor Rapp. But later in practice, Allen fired a strike to Valdes-Scantling down the seam, which the receiver dropped. That play also would’ve been for big yardage had he hauled it in. Valdes-Scantling appears to be among a group of wideouts battling for the final few roster spots, but has gained steam of late.
McDERMOTT SINGS SHAVERS’S PRAISE
Sean McDermott has been complimentary of Tyrell Shavers throughout training camp, as the young wide receiver states his own case for a spot, which seemed unlikely to some outside observers prior to camp. On Thursday when asked about players that have impressed him, McDermott brought Shavers name again, remarking about his consistency and strong play on special teams. That second part — special teams — is key to remember for wideouts trying to grab the last couple of spots. McDermott, Allen and other players and coaches sure make it sound like Shavers has a good shot to make the team.
BASS-O-MATIC BACK?
McDermott also mentioned Thursday that he thought K Tyler Bass was in a good rhythm during training camp. There had been some concern among Bills fans about Bass after some key misses last season, including late in their playoff loss against the Chiefs. Bass has been solid in camp, and had another good day kicking field goals. Some fans likely won’t be convinced until Bass is money in the regular season and playoffs, especially in big moments. But Bass’s performance at St. John Fisher should relieve some of those concerns.
PRESEASON STARTS NOW
The Bills are now back in Orchard Park for the remainder of the preseason, as they get ready to host the Chicago Bears on Saturday at 1 p.m. at Highmark Stadium. We will likely see No. 1 overall pick QB Caleb Williams make his debut for the Bears in OP.
***For a full discussion of what we’ve learned through training camp at St. John Fisher, check out the latest Buffalo End Zone podcast. Andy Young and Kevin Carroll go in-depth on Josh Allen and the Bills wide receivers, some players who raised their stock, areas for concern and more!
Aug. 7
The Bills held their penultimate practice of training camp at St. John Fisher University on Wednesday as they prepare to head back to Orchard Park to kick off the preseason slate this weekend.
OFFENSIVE IDENTITY
Josh Allen said after practice Tuesday that the Bills have found a sense of their offensive identity over the past two weeks. It’s one that features a host of new faces, especially at the wide receiver position after the departure of Stefon Diggs and Gabe Davis. Allen believes there’s a bit of unpredictability in having so many different weapons without a clear-cut No. 1 option. Throughout camp, he’s had big days with a wide variety of targets, while sprinkling in the running game. Without an obvious WR1, it’ll be interesting to see if the offense can still be just as productive as it has been for the past four years.
CONCERNS FOR COOK?
There’s little doubt that James Cook will be a key piece to the Bills offense this season as the incumbent No. 1 running back on the depth chart. While he has flashed his ability in the running and passing game throughout training camp, Cook has had some issues with ball security. He had what could’ve been considered two fumbles on the day. One came on a pass play in 7-on-7 drills, when Josh Allen threaded a beautiful pass to Cook up the seam, and as Cook was either just short or just over the goal line, Christian Benford was able to knock the football out. Damar Hamlin also forced the ball out of Cook’s hands later in practice. Cook has also had some problems with drops. While it’s not an emergency, it does raise some concern for a player expected to have the pigskin plenty.
DAWKINS LEAVES PRACTICE
Pro Bowl offensive tackle Dion Dawkins left the field during Wednesday’s practice session and did not return. The Bills later said Dawkins was excused for a personal matter and that him leaving was not injury-related. Reserve tackle Ryan Van Demark has been taking some first team reps while spelling Dawkins during practice of late.
DAQUAN JONES MISSES AGAIN
Starting defensive tackle DaQuan Jones missed his second straight practice. The Bills said he is day-to-day with a groin injury. Jones, who has proved to be an incredibly important part of the Bills defense, was missed dearly when he was injured in Week 5 last season and didn’t return until very late in the campaign. While this isn’t related, the Bills have to hope a few days of rest is all it takes for him be good to go. DE Casey Toohill is also day-to-day with a groin injury.
MVS ON THE RISE
It’s been a tale of two halves of training camp for WR Marquez Valdes-Scantling. The veteran free agent acquisition hardly noticeable during the beginning portions of camp, but has come on strong over the past several practices. Josh Allen said it’s taken some time for he and “MVS” to get on the same page since he signed with the team later than some others during the spring. Allen said he’s starting to build a rapport with Valdes-Scantling, and his experience on good offenses in Green Bay and Kansas City is something they can lean on. Valdes-Scantling appears to be much more involved in the Bills offense and getting more run with Allen and the first unit. It’s a crowded fight for the last couple of wide receivers spots, likely among the likes of “MVS,” Tyrell Shavers, Chase Claypool (who’s been out with a toe injury) and KJ Hamler.
HAMLER HAS A SHOT
Speaking of KJ Hamler, the Bills listed him as the top kick and punt returner when their first depth chart was released on Wednesday. Hamler is among a host of players battling for those spots, but being at the top of the depth chart is certainly a good sign for him. He’s also been used often on offense, frequently with the second team, and has made some nice plays. Hamler’s return ability, along with catching the football, could give him a shot to make the roster as a return specialist and a reserve wideout. Fellow receiver Andy Isabella is listed as the second punt returner. Rookie CB Daequan Hardy is listed as the second kickoff returner and third punt returner.
DEFENSIVE DIFFERENCE-MAKERS
DT Ed Oliver, DE Greg Rousseau and LB Matt Milano have all stood out at times throughout training camp for making an impact on defense. On Tuesday, both Oliver and Rousseau were disruptive defending the run and the pass, while Milano flashed the instincts and explosiveness that made him an All-Pro when he tracked down James Cook in the backfield on a swing pass from Josh Allen. Those three players are going to be counted on for more of the same if this Bills defense is going to be successful this season.
DAVIDSON CHALLENGING FOR A SPOT?
Tight End Zach Davidson wasn’t one of the players many expected to make the Bills roster, but he’s certainly making his case. Davidson is a constant playmaker and a noticeable presence on the field no matter which unit he’s working. Allen said that Davidson’s play pops on their practice film, and he’s making Brandon Beane’s decisions difficult when it comes time for roster cuts. Davidson is currently listed as the fourth tight end on the depth chart behind Dalton Kincaid, Dawson Knox and Quintin Morris.
AND THEN THERE WAS ONE
The Bills will wrap up training camp at St. John Fisher with one final practice Thursday morning. Then it’s back to Orchard Park to open the preseason schedule Saturday afternoon against the Chicago Bears at Highmark Stadium.
Aug. 5
The Bills held their 10th practice of training camp on Monday at St. John Fisher University, with only two more left before heading back to Orchard Park to continue training for the season.
DEFENSE BRINGS THE HEAT
On a day when the Bills defense attacked often with blitz packages, the offense struggled to gain ground consistently. Defensive coordinator Bobby Babich and company threw a variety of blitzes at the offense, putting pressure on the quarterbacks on passing plays and stifling the running game. The defensive unit was slower to start training camp than the offense, which got the better of 11-on-11 work during the early portion of camp. But over the last several practices, the defense has certainly ramped up the intensity level and made things much more difficult on Joe Brady’s offense. Middle linebacker Terrel Bernard, who had 6.5 sacks last season, is adept at blitzing up the middle and was able to create problems for Josh Allen and the offensive line. Von Miller also had a nice pass rush that forced Allen to loft a prayer high and incomplete to Mack Hollins. The defense continues to rotate different players in and out of the lineup, especially on the defensive line, where rookie DeWayne Carter and veteran Austin Johnson got some run with the first team. Those two appear to be frontrunners for the third and fourth tackle spots behind Ed Oliver and DaQuan Jones.
HARDY MAKING HIS CASE
Bills head coach Sean McDermott said during training camp that the primary reason they drafted Daequan Hardy was his return ability on special teams. While that’s key to remember, they also want to make sure he’s able to play defense from his cornerback position. Hardy lined up primarily as an outside boundary corner during 11-on-11 drills on Monday, and came away with a nice interception of reserve quarterback Shane Buechele (there were two defensive lineman in the backfield applying pressure). It’s not the first time Hardy has picked off a pass or made good play during training camp. If Hardy can prove useful in the secondary, it could give him a great shot to make the team given his skills as return man.
KINCAID’S GREAT CATCH
Tight end Dalton Kincaid had perhaps the best offensive play of the day on Monday. With a bit of pressure coming his way, Josh Allen heaved the ball deep down the seam and Kincaid made a diving catch. On a day when the offense struggled in general, Kincaid had a few plays that remind you why he figures to be a consistent target of Allen this coming season.
TWO TO GO
The Bills will have the day off from practice on Tuesday before wrapping up training camp with practice sessions Wednesday and Thursday morning at St. John Fisher. The preseason opener is Saturday afternoon when the Bills host the Chicago Bears at Highmark Stadium.
Aug. 4
The Bills returned to St. John Fisher University on Sunday to resume training camp after scrimmaging back in Orchard Park at Highmark Stadium on Friday night.
COLEMAN SNAGS PLAY OF THE DAY HONORS
Another day, another Keon Coleman highlight. The Bills rookie wide receiver showed incredible body control and the ability to make a difficult catch in traffic. In 11-on-11 team work, quarterback Josh Allen rolled outside the pocket and threw back across his body to Coleman in the back of the end zone. Coleman rose up high over CB Christian Benford (who was in good position) and pulled in a dart from Allen for a touchdown. While Coleman often doesn’t show amazing separation off the line of scrimmage in his routes, he just finds a way to make plays using his height, leaping ability and body positioning. Coleman later dropped what would’ve been a tough catch on what appeared be a purposely underthrown ball by Allen into the end zone. However, two plays later, Allen ripped an absolute heater into Coleman slanting in the end zone for a touchdown. While those two aren’t always perfect, it’s become a daily occurrence to see them connect on a play that just makes you say, ‘Wow!’
SHAKIR AND KINCAID ARE JUST RELIABLE
On the play prior to Coleman catching his second touchdown, Allen found TE Dalton Kincaid on a 4th and 10 play inside the five-yard line for a first down. It’s another example of Allen trusting his second-year tight end, much as he does with WR Khail Shakir, who also had another strong day catching the football. Those two have proven to be consistent targets of Allen throughout camp, and will likely be counted on as safety valves and go-to weapons when the offense needs to move the sticks.
VALDES-SCANTLING MAKING HIS PUSH
Through the first half of training camp, Marquez Valdes-Scantling didn’t seem to stand out from the crowd of wide receivers. Some observers wondered if the veteran free agent signee and Super Bowl champion was in danger of not making the team. Over the last several practices, however, MVS has been much more visible in the passing game with a few nice catches from Josh Allen and the other quarterbacks. Valdes-Scantling would appear to in mix for the Bills’ 5th or 6th receiver spot, fighting with the likes of training camp standout Tyrell Shavers, Chase Claypool (who’s been out with a toe injury) and KJ Hamler among others.
ELAM’S ELEVATING
CB Kaiir Elam has been a steady force throughout training camp. While rotating in with the first unit, he’s made several pass breakups and hauled in some interceptions. For a first-round pick some were ready to label as a bust, Elam has done a lot during the offseason and camp to push that aside. Head coach Sean McDermott said on Sunday that Elam has worked tirelessly to improve to his credit. McDermott also said that Elam has had a clean slate with the coaching staff this season, particularly with new cornerbacks coach Jahmile Addae. Elam has put himself firmly in the conversation to be at least the club’s No. 3 outside cornerback, and have a much greater shot at making a consistent impact once the season starts.
MILLER AND OLIVER CREATING PROBLEMS
Von Miller and Ed Oliver both had impactful days along the defensive line, with the two combining for what would’ve likely been a sack of Josh Allen if the play weren’t whistled dead. Later, with Allen scrambling to the outside on a pass play, Miller turned on his speed to try to chase down Allen, who ran out of bounds. Miller has begun to show signs of regaining some of his speed and quickness that seemed lacking in 2023 after he returned from ACL surgery. Oliver, who had a breakout season, has been solid and disruptive throughout training camp.
GABLE STEVESON SIGHTING
While watching 11-on-11 work, I made a point to watch DT Gable Steveson – the Olympic gold medalist wrestler playing football for the first time in his life. While working with the second defensive unit, Steveson had a great rep where he blew right past center Sedrick Van Pran Granger to pressure quarterback Mitch Trubisky, who threw incomplete. As an Olympic wrestling champion, Steveson certainly has the athletic traits and understanding of using leverage to his advantage. He still has a long way to go in picking up a sport he’s never played, but for a few moments on Sunday, you could see why the Bills took a shot on signing him to see if they can unearth something special.
CAMP COUNTDOWN
The Bills are down to their final three practices at St. John Fisher University. They’ll be back on the practice field Monday morning. That session is closed to fans.
Aug. 1
The Bills on Thursday returned from a mid-week day off to the field at St. John Fisher University with their seventh practice session of training camp.
BANGED UP AT SAFETY
With S Mike Edwards already week-to-week with a hamstring injury, there was more concerning news on the health front as they returned to practice on Thursday. Rookie S Cole Bishop is also week-to-week after leaving Tuesday’s practice with a shoulder injury. That means two of the top four safeties heading into training camp could be out for an extended period of time. Edwards, who joined the team as a free agent in the offseason, was unable to practice during spring organized team activities and mandatory minicamp as he recovered from surgery. The latest injury puts him behind in his bid to earn the starting safety job opposite Taylor Rapp. Bishop, who also had a long way to go in learning the defense as a rookie, now faces a bit of a setback of his own. It leaves Rapp, who’s been consistently working with the first team at one safety spot, and Damar Hamlin, who had been rotating with Edwards and Bishop. Hamlin, who says he’s “starving” to prove he can be a starter after his cardiac arrest during the 2022 season, has been making a strong case during camp and has a big opportunity ahead of him with the unfortunate injuries. The club signed veterans Kareem Jackson and Terrell Burgess this week. They also have Kendall Williamson and the versatile Cam Lewis as safety options in the interim. The Bills have to hope Edwards and Bishop can return in time to see some action during the preseason.
SHAKIR SHINES
Khalil Shakir is the only current Bills receiver on the roster who’s caught a pass in a regular season game from Josh Allen. Those two have consistently connected throughout training camp, but duo looked unstoppable at times on Thursday. During 11-on-11 team work in the red zone, Allen hit Shakir on a perfect seam pass in the end zone with standout slot cornerback Taron Johnson in good coverage. Later, on a 3rd and long situation, Allen ripped a throw down the seam again, which Shakir caught for a long first down. Allen has been complimentary of the type of receiver he has in Shakir, and those two have outstanding chemistry that developed toward the end of last season. It appears the third-year wideout will be a reliable weapon in the passing game with a role that will only grow in 2024.
COLEMAN WATCH
It seems like every day we see a “wow” play from Keon Coleman. The rookie receiver usually doesn’t disappoint in that regard, and provided more on Thursday. Instead of Allen, it was backup Mitch Trubisky who made an excellent throw to Coleman, who went up high to pull the ball down in the corner of the end zone for a touchdown. Later, Allen got in on the act, delivering a ball deep down the sideline to Coleman who made the catch. Coleman was called by the officials on the field for interference, but it seemed like a close play. Even when Coleman makes some mistakes (which does happen from time to time), he continues to make those splash plays.
SHAVERS STAYS CONSISTENT
WR Tyrell Shavers is steadily taking advantage of his opportunities to earn a spot on this roster. Much like Trubisky’s pass to Coleman, No. 11 also found Shavers in the corner of the end zone for a goal line touchdown. Shavers has put himself in position to seriously challenge for one of the top five or six wide receiver spots, along with the likes of Marquez Valdes-Scantling, Chase Claypool (who’s been out with a toe injury), KJ Hamler, and Justin Shorter, among others.
SAMUEL THE SWISS ARMY KNIFE
Don’t be surprised if you see WR Curtis Samuel playing the role of running back at times this season. The former college RB scored a rushing touchdown right through the middle of the defense during Thursday’s 11-on-11 practice and looked damn good doing it. After practice, Josh Allen said he doesn’t know how often it will happen, but using Samuel in the backfield as a runner or a passer gives defensive coordinators another thing to think about when they’re crafting a gameplan.
MILANO ROUND INTO FORM
LB Matt Milano has been on the field for most of the first-team work throughout training camp, minus a few plays off here or there, and a veteran rest day. As he makes his way back from a season-ending leg injury, it looks like the All-Pro is getting more comfortable by the day. On Thursday, one play in particular stood out, as he read and reacted to a screen pass to blow up the play with the explosiveness we’ve come to expect from him. If he can maintain that type of play without any limitations, the Bills defense will be that much better for it.
BACK TO ORCHARD PARK
The Bills will make a temporary stop back at Highmark Stadium for the Return of the Blue and Red scrimmage Friday night. The practice kicks off at 5:30 p.m. They’ll go back to St. John Fisher University on Sunday.
July 30
The Bills continued training camp on Tuesday with their sixth practice at St. John Fisher and sparks were flying.
IS VON MILLER BACK?
When asked about his counterpart on the defensive edge, Von Miller, Bills left tackle Dion Dawkins said, “Von is Von. 40 is back.”
Miller showed signs of some juice – juice that’s been missing since he tore his ACL in Nov. 2022. Miller had several successful pass rushes that likely would’ve resulted in sacks, displaying some of the burst, bend and quickness that made him one of the league’s most feared sack artists. While it’s just a practice, it was the most noticeable Miller has been throughout training. If the Bills can get anything close to the Miller they saw prior to the knee injury, it could go a long way to boosting their defense. Really, anything is an improvement after a zero-sack, three-tackle campaign in 2023, one in which Miller admits he probably shouldn’t have played as he recovered from surgery. Good signs, but still a long way to go to proving it in the games. Overall, the defensive line was able to generate a handful of would-be sacks on the day.
INJURIES PILE UP
The Bills are banged up at safety. With Mike Edwards already out week-to-week with a hamstring issue, rookie Cole Bishop left practice and did not return. That left Taylor Rapp and Damar Hamlin as the only two safeties practicing among the four that had rotated with the first defensive unit. The club signed veteran Kareem Jackson, 36, prior to Tuesday’s practice. Additionally, RB Ty Johnson did not practice after leaving Monday with a leg injury. WR Chase Claypool (toe) was also among those who did not practice.
ANDERSON HOSPITALIZED WITH HEAT-RELATED ISSUES
The heat and humidity were high at St. John Fisher University on Tuesday, and that led to offensive lineman Alec Anderson being taken to a local hospital with heat-related issues.
The club later reported Anderson was in good spirits, and had spoken to the Bills medical staff, Brandon Beane and Sean McDermott by phone. He was expected to be released from the hospital Tuesday afternoon.
COLEMAN AND ELAM GO TOE-TO-TOE
There was a fun battle throughout the day between rookie WR Keon Coleman and CB Kaiir Elam. The two are both physical presences, and that was on display.
In 1-on-1 goal line passing drills, Coleman did a great job of going up to grab a Josh Allen pass for a touchdown even though Elam was in good coverage. The next time they faced each other, Elam was in good position and Coleman slipped to the ground. The referees threw a flag against Elam, but it appeared it was normal contact that close to the line of scrimmage. DB Cam Lewis also had good coverage against Coleman in 1-on-1 and was able to come away with an INT. In 11-on-11, Coleman and Elam were stride for stride on a deep route, but Coleman was able to separate at the end and draw a flag against Elam.
SCUFFLE SHUFFLE
With the heat cranked up and the pads on for a long and grueling practice, there were a couple of different scraps between players throughout the day. In one of them, the entire team came together in a scrum on the field as they separated the players going it. Those types of altercations are a rite of passage at camp, and they were extinguished quickly.
OFF DAY AHEAD
The Bills will have the day off from practice on Wednesday before returning to the field at St. John Fisher at 9:45 a.m. on Thursday. They’ll practice back in Orchard Park at Highmark Stadium on Friday evening.
July 29
On their fifth day of practice at St. John Fisher University, the Bills cranked up the intensity as they put on the pads and started hitting for the first time during training camp.
HITTING HEATS UP CAMP
Practicing with their pads on brings another level of ferocity among the players. We saw some physical battles between the lineman on offense and defense, and the wide receivers and defensive backs in on-one-on drills. Cornerback JaMarcus Ingram had a powerful jam that knocked rookie receiver Keon Coleman off the line of scrimmage. Rookie edge rusher Javon Soloman bull-rushed right over offensive tackle Tylan Grable. The first day of pads even produced a few scuffles – including one between Mack Hollins and Kaiir Elam after one play. That’s to be expected as emotions run high.
RUN DEFENSE STEPS UP
The Bills worked a good amount on running the football between the tackles since they were padded, a better test of line play in the run game. The defensive line did a nice job bottling up the running backs for the most part, though there were a few times where the ball carriers broke through for good yardage. Darryton Evans in particular had a 70-yard touchdown run right thorugh the heart of the defense. I thought DE Greg Rousseau did a solid job, as did LB Deion Jones.
SAMUEL MAKES PLAY OF THE DAY
Wide receiver Curtis Samuel had perhaps the most spectacular play of practice on Monday. In 1-on-1 drills, Samuel beat Ingram on a double move on the sidelines then reached up to catch a touchdown pass from Josh Allen while falling backwards into the end zone. Samuel continues to impress in the passing game, as offensive coordinator Joe Brady uses him in a variety of ways and Allen finds him. Allen also had a couple of perfect strikes to Khalil Shakir on seam throws. Rookie Keon Coleman added to his daily dose of nice plays, as Allen bootlegged to his right and hit Coleman streaking across the field to the sideline for a catch.
SHAVERS STOCK UP
Second-year wideout Tyrell Shavers continues his push for a roster spot with another impressive catch while practicing with the first team. Allen threw him a ball as Shavers came across the middle of the field and he did a good job to stretch out and make the grab. Head coach Sean McDermott said Monday that Shavers is the definition of consistency. With that approach, he’s beginning to make people take notice of his game.
SLOPPY SNAPS?
In our Buffalo End Zone training camp preview special, I wondered about the chemistry between Allen and new center Connor McGovern, who moved over from his guard position after the team released Mitch Morse. Through the first five practices, there have been some instances of low shotgun snaps from McGovern to Allen, as well as a bobbled and lost snap from under center on Monday. Now is the time for those two to work it out. The exchange between center and quarterback is a critical part of the game that’s sometimes taken for granted when a duo works together for a long time.
SAFETY ROTATION
Another day, another safety takes the starters reps next to Taylor Rapp. With Mike Edwards banged up, rookie Cole Bishop had his chance with the top unit. Damar Hamlin ran mostly with the 2s on Monday. Expect that rotation to continue.
INJURY UPDATE
Edwards is out week-to-week with a hamstring injury according to McDermott. It’s unfortunate for the Bills’ and the veteran safety, especially since he really didn’t have a chance to practice in the spring coming back from shoulder surgery. The other Mike Edwards on the roster (offensive line) is in the concussion protocol. WR Chase Claypool is day-to-day with a toe injury. RB Ty Johnson appeared to be hurt after a collision with LB Terrel Bernard. Johnson walked off the field and through the tunnel with trainers and did not practice after that.
CAMP ROLLS ON
The Bills will be back on the practice field at St. John Fisher University on Tuesday at 9:45 a.m.
July 28
The Bills returned to the practice field at St. John Fisher University on Sunday morning after their first day off from training camp.
ALLEN-COLEMAN CONNECTION
Josh Allen has found a friendly target in rookie wide receiver Keon Coleman. The duo continues what’s been a strong start to camp -- often connecting on short passes, while adding a big play element in the red zone area including a touchdown along the sidelines when Coleman beat the defender and Allen placed a perfect pass that Coleman snagged for six. The Bills’ top draft pick also had a spectacular catch in 1-on-1 receiver vs. cornerback drills. It’s early in training camp and the pads aren’t even on yet, but it’s an encouraging sign to see Allen building such a rapport with the rookie Coleman.
Allen also had a deep sideline touchdown to Khalil Shakir, a 20-yard TD strike to Dalton Kincaid in the middle of the field, and a scoring pass to Mack Hollins where the receiver came back and grabbed it over the defender’s helmet. In 7-on-7, Allen hit an electric touchdown pass to Dawson Knox in tight window as the tight end did a great job of hauling it in with traffic around him. Minus a few miscues at the end of the third practice on Friday, Allen has been fantastic throughout camp.
SHAVERS IN THE WR MIX
Tyrell Shavers is making the most of his opportunities during the first few days of training camp and is putting himself in the conversation for roster spot. The second-year wideout spent last season on the Bills practice squad. Shavers has had some reps with the first team offense, a possible signal the Bills want to get a better look at him against better competition with Allen as his quarterback.
DEFENSIVE BACK ROTATION
The Bills continue to give plenty of chances to a host of players with the secondary of the first team defense. Safety in particular has been an interesting position to watch. Damar Hamlin again received first team reps alongside Taylor Rapp. Rookie Cole Bishop also got some run, and appears to be getting more comfortable day-by-day. At cornerback, Kaiir Elam took some starters reps. Although he was beaten for a touchdown, he did bounce back to pick off a Shane Buechele pass later in practice. Elam is doing all he can to prove he can be a reliable player in his third season in the NFL.
LET’S HIT!!!
The Bills will put on their pads for the first time in training camp on Monday. They’ll be back on the practice field at 9:45 a.m. at St. John Fisher University.
July 26
The Bills wrapped up their first segment of training camp on Friday after three straight days of practices. The biggest news came after practice, when Kim Pegula walked onto the field with her husband and team co-owner Terry Pegula to break down the team huddle. It was a heartwarming moment, as Kim Pegula has been out of the public eye since a debilitating cardiac arrest more than two years ago. She was also photographed embracing safety Damar Hamlin, who also suffered a cardiac arrest during a game and has since returned to the football field to continue his career.
OFFENSE STARTS HOT UNTIL DEFENSE DOMINATES LATE
Josh Allen and the Bills offense were on fire to begin practice on Friday. Allen was a perfect 6-for-6 passing during 7-on-7 drills, connecting with rookie Keon Coleman and Khalil Shakir for pretty touchdown tosses. Throughout practice in 11-on-11 drills, Allen continued to find a host of receivers including Dalton Kincaid, Mack Hollins, Coleman and Shakir. The defense had its moments, with Ed Oliver and Greg Rousseau having disruptive days on the defensive line. On the final series of practice, the defense managed three interceptions of Josh Allen, which appeared to be the first interceptions Allen has thrown during the first three days of practice.
SAFETY ROTATION CONTINUES
Taylor Rapp has been a stalwart among the safeties working with the first defensive unit, but there’s been more of a rotation at the other safety spot each day among Damar Hamlin, Mike Edwards, and most recently, Cole Bishop. The rookie 2nd round draft pick had his opportunity to spend more time with the starters. It will be interesting to see how this rotation continues as training camp and the preseason unfold.
SMOOT RUNS WITH THE ONES AGAIN
Duwuane Smoot continues to see time with the starting defensive line, playing both at defensive and even tackle. Defensive coordinator Bobby Babich said Friday that Smoot has an old-school edge to his game, and he’s excited to see him once they start playing with pads. Smoot has clearly put himself in the mix to have a role in the defensive line rotation.
DAVIS HAVING SOLID CAMP
Rookie running back Ray Davis has quietly had a strong training camp debut this week. He’s shown explosive runs up the middle and comfort in catching the ball out of the backfield. His only miscue was a fumble toss in the backfield on Thursday. Davis, who had 21 touchdowns last season at the University of Kentucky, is bidding for playing time among a group that features last season’s breakout starter James Cook and veteran Ty Johnson. Cook and Johnson have also impressed during practice.
TIME FOR A BREAK
The Bills have the day off from practice on Saturday, their first of camp. They’ll return to the field at St. John Fisher University Sunday morning.
July 25
The Bills were back on the practice field Thursday at St. John Fisher University for Day 2 of training camp – one that saw the defense much more even with the offense than we saw on the first day of practice.
SAMUEL SHINES ON BREAKOUT DAY
Curtis Samuel was one of the key offseason additions for the Bills, and the wide receiver is quickly showing he could be a major factor in the offense this year. Samuel had a fantastic day during 11-on-11 team practice, hauling in several catches from Josh Allen for big gains. The veteran wideout had the greatest success of his career in Carolina, when now-Bills offensive coordinator led the Panthers group. It’s clear from watching practice, Brady has big ideas for Samuel, routinely having him line up at different spots on the field, both along the line of scrimmage and the backfield. Allen looked Samuel’s way on designed short passes, quick outlets, and deeper down the field in rhythm or extending the play. On one standout play, Allen delivered an absolute strike to Samuel down the seam for a 30+ yard gain, despite tight coverage from Cam Lewis.
Allen also continued his connection with Keon Coleman often on quick passes in the slot and flat areas of the field. Coleman did have a fumble when Taron Johnson stripped the ball after a catch and recovered it himself. Allen found Mack Hollins for big gains on multiple occasions, and hit a gorgeous pass to Dalton Kincaid.
The offense did sputter at times, with a few dropped passes, low snaps, fumbles and Allen losing the ball in the backfield when it appeared left tackle Dion Dawkins bumped into him or was close to doing so.
BRIEF CONCERN FOR ALLEN
At one point during practice, Allen was seen laying on the field and being attended to by trainers. It appeared they were looking at his right foot/ankle and did apply some tape to the area. The issue seemed only momentary, as Allen rejoined practice for another round of team drills shortly after, even sprinting the field to the end zone to join a teammate after a play.
SECONDARY SHAKEUPS THROUGHOUT PRACTICE
On the first day of training camp, Damar Hamlin and Taylor Rapp took the first team reps during practice. Day 2 was a different story, with veteran Mike Edwards most often joining Rapp on the back end of the defense. Hamlin and rookie Cole Bishop did rotate in with the first unit at times. As for cornerback, Rasul Douglas and Christian Benford took the bulk of reps, but Kaiir Elam did have some opportunities with the top group. It will be interesting how much of Hamlin, Bishop, and Elam we see throughout training camp and the preseason. Cam Lewis also took some reps at nickel corner, and did appear to have some sort of injury during practice.
MILANO GOES FULL AGAIN
All-Pro linebacker Matt Milano once again practiced fully through individual and team drills on Thursday. That’s a good sign after he did so on Wednesday as well. Head Coach Sean McDermott said they will closely monitor his progress and manage his rest and usage throughout camp. Milano is working his way back from a leg injury in Week 5 of 2023 that cost him the rest of the season.
MILLER EVER THE OPTIMIST
Von Miller admitted Thursday that he probably should not have played at all in 2023 after tearing the ACL in his right knee in November 2022. Miller said he pushed himself back on the field in Week 5 last season because he thought he could do it and he wanted to be out there for his teammates. His body didn’t allow him to do much when he returned, with just three tackles and zero sacks. Now, Miller says he’s feeling the best he has in two years, with no linger concerns about rehab, wearing a brace, or his knee causing him trouble on the field.
SMOOT ON THE LOOSE
Duwuane Smoot has shown well through the first two days of training camp, noticeably earning first team reps at defensive end on Thursday. The veteran edge rusher appears to be in the mix for a top-4 spot in the rotation along the defensive line. The 29-year-old registered four straight seasons with at least five sacks in Jacksonville before an Achilles injury in 2022.
TRAINING CAMP ROLLS ON
The Bills will practice at St. John Fisher for the third straight day to kickoff camp Friday at 9:45 a.m., before a day off on Saturday.
July 24
The Buffalo Bills kicked off their 2024 training camp Wednesday under the summer sun, and the offense brought the heat in their first practice at St. John Fisher University. Here are my observations from the kickoff of camp.
COLEMAN, KINCAID STEAL THE SHOW ON OFFENSE
The Bills have a largely revamped and unproven receiving corps this season, and that might be just fine if their first practice of camp is any indication. Rookie 2nd round draft pick Keon Coleman and second-year tight end Dalton Kincaid both reeled in multiple touchdown caches from Josh Allen during 11-on-11 team work where the focus was the red zone. Kincaid, who some expect to lead this team in targets, appeared to be the No. 1 option on many plays. Coleman used his large frame effectively, including a spectacular diving touchdown catch on the endzone sideline where he was able to get both feet in bounds. None of the Bills quarterbacks committed a turnover as the offense clearly had the better of the defense on Day 1. Allen was in command, finding open receivers quickly or buying time with his legs. Curtis Samuel, Dawson Knox and KJ Hamler also stood out in the passing game. After practice, Allen said he was a big fan of the group celebrations the offensive players had after scoring.
HAMLIN, ELAM CONTINUE TO IMPRESS
S Damar Hamlin and CB Kaiir Elam both had strong showings during spring practices in Orchard Park, and both carried that over to training camp in Pittsford.
Hamlin worked with the first team defense alongside Taylor Rapp, and appeared to be focused and in position. He batted down a pass in the end zone, one of the few times receivers didn’t haul in a touchdown. Hamlin, now another season removed from his cardiac arrest, seems intent on making some noise this year. Elam, who also saw first team reps, picked up where he left off after making the most of his opportunities in OTAs and minicamp. It’s an important year for the third-year corner as he looks to remove the “bust” label some have given him.
MILANO FULL GO
All-Pro LB Matt Milano practiced fully for the first time since his devastating leg injury in Week 5 last season. It’s a good sign as the Bills continue to monitor his progress and plan to closely manage his rest and usage during training camp. I didn’t notice Milano obviously favoring his leg at any point. While seeing him on the field at training camp is exciting for Bills fans, having him healthy for the regular season is the No. 1 goal.
BEANE FRUSTRATED BY ALLEN CRITICISM
After an anonymous NFL executive told ESPN that Josh Allen is one of the most “overrated” players in the league, it sparked a storm of discussion both locally and nationally. As you might imagine, Bills GM Brandon Beane was not a fan of those comments. Beane said he thinks Allen is actually underrated, and did not mince words when asked why he thought someone would levy that type of criticism against the star QB.
“There’s idiots everywhere,” Beane said. “I don’t know. Until you put your name on it, I don’t know. I think he’s done plenty. I think part of it truthfully is, there are people that thought when Josh came out (in the 2018 NFL Draft) he was a bust or would not make it for all the reasons that they’ve listed over the years. I just think someone thinks they’ve got a crack, they’re going to say, ‘See, I told you so.’”
CAMP CONTINUES
The Bills will hold their second practice of training camp on Thursday at 9:45 a.m. Offensive Coordinator Joe Brady will speak with the media prior to the session.