Recent engagements in the Buffalo Bills' offseason activities on March 5, 2026, observed the participation of defensive tackle Ed Oliver and cornerback Christian Benford in team practices. Oliver reportedly conveyed an intent to expand his role on the field, aiming for status as a complete player across downs.
"I want to be a three-down player."
— Ed Oliver, defensive tackle
The team's offensive coordinator, Pete Carmichael, offered insights into the strategic framework being established by head coach Joe Brady. Carmichael confirmed that Brady's offensive philosophy largely draws from earlier operational methods observed under Payton, yet incorporates Brady's distinct variations. Concurrently, defensive line reports indicate TJ Sanders is positioned for versatile alignments, demonstrating capabilities across 'one, three, 4i' schemes.
Forthcoming Activities & Preparations
The team has outlined its calendar for 2026 offseason sessions [https://www.si.com/nfl/bills/onsi/bills-key-offseason-dates-remember-rookie-minicamp-otas-training-camp], with dates anticipated to begin later this spring. A voluntary minicamp already took place earlier this year, preceding the recent professional football draft. The published schedule indicates Organized Team Activities (OTAs) are set to commence from May 18–19, 2026, with subsequent sessions on May 21, 2026, May 26–28, 2026, and then continuing June 1–4, 2026. A mandatory minicamp for the full squad is slated for June 9–11, 2026.
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Anticipated participation includes prominent figures such as quarterback Josh Allen and trade acquisition DJ Moore. These forthcoming team gatherings are expected to feature lighter workouts, as the team engages in earlier-than-usual spring practices, a concession granted to teams under a new head coach. The commencement of the Joe Brady era has been noted, initiating these earlier arrangements for 2026 team workouts.
Historical Context: 2025 Offseason Review
Previous seasons offer contextual information for current team dynamics. During the 2025 OTAs [https://www.buffalorumblings.com/2025/6/3/24442522/notes-from-latest-buffalo-bills-ota-session-josh-allen-james-cook-tre-davious-white-joshua-palmer], running back James Cook maintained an absence from team practices. This became a consistent feature during that period, a widely understood circumstance given his approaching final season under his four-year rookie contract.
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Observations from that same year also noted cornerback Tre’Davious White appearing to regain previous form. Coach McDermott reportedly expressed a desire for more dialogue within the team structure and emphasized the necessity for players to remain 'grounded' amidst increased external scrutiny.
McDermott said that he'd like to have more of those conversations. There's no No. 1 guy, No. 2 guy. McDermott said the team has to stay grounded despite the extra scrutiny. And I think that's good for our team. You could just feel the kid's getting older and he's getting more mature.
— Coach McDermott, Bills head coach
Figures such as rookie Maxwell Hairston in 2025 displayed potential during drills, despite some technical imperfections. His reps were initially limited then reportedly expanded during that timeframe. Quarterback Josh Allen was also present for the initial week of 2025 OTAs before departing for his wedding.
