Buffalo Bills Roster Moves Following Trade Deadline

The Buffalo Bills did not make any trades at the 2025 NFL trade deadline, remaining on the sidelines as the deadline passed. Despite this inactivity in the trade market, the Bills took significant steps to adjust their roster in light of ongoing injuries.

On November 4, the team released linebacker Jimmy Ciarlo and wide receiver Kristian Wilkerson from their practice squad, reflecting a shift in their depth chart and roster optimization efforts, as reported by Buffalo Rumblings.

Ciarlo, who is just 24 years old, had played only one game this season, contributing minimally in special teams. Wilkerson, a veteran wide receiver, had limited production during his time with the Bills, catching six passes for 60 yards across nine professional games.

Following these roster moves, the Bills also brought in four players for workouts, including familiar names like defensive ends Kingsley Jonathan and Casey Toohill, and defensive back TeCory Couch, all of whom have previously played for the team.

The addition of free-agent defensive end Garrett Nelson rounded out their workout contingent. According to Buffalo Rumblings, Jonathan has been a part of the Bills roster from 2022 to 2024, primarily contributing on special teams.

Toohill, meanwhile, had a productive 2024 season with 20 tackles and a sack over 14 games. Couch, who had been recovering from an injury, is expected to enhance the defensive backfield depth. Following the workouts, the Bills signed Jonathan and Couch to their practice squad, highlighting their proactive approach to bolster their lineup amid injuries.

In another key move, the Bills signed defensive tackle Phidarian Mathis to the active roster to fill the void left by the injured Michael Hoecht. Mathis had previously been on the practice squad and saw action in the week prior against the Kansas City Chiefs, where he recorded one tackle in limited snaps.

This signing comes as the team deals with the absence of defensive tackle Ed Oliver, who is sidelined with a torn biceps muscle. The Bills have shown a commitment to maintaining competitiveness as they navigate through a challenging injury landscape and a quiet trade deadline, as emphasized by Syracuse.com.

General manager Brandon Beane's focus on creating roster flexibility has been evident, as he recently restructured the contract of cornerback Taron Johnson to free up salary cap space for potential future moves.

Though the trade deadline may have passed without significant acquisitions, the Bills' activity in reshaping their roster illustrates their dedication to remaining a competitive force in the league. The Bills' strategy to build depth through practice squad transactions and targeted signings demonstrates their adaptability and foresight as they prepare for the challenges ahead this season.