Bills Explore Veteran Linebacker Options After Missing Out on Chenal

Buffalo has two experienced free agent targets to fill a key defensive need.

Apr. 4, 2026 at 3:07pm

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After linebacker Leo Chenal signed with the Washington Commanders, the Buffalo Bills are now looking at veteran free agents Bobby Okereke and Germaine Pratt to fill a significant roster need at inside linebacker. Both players have extensive NFL experience and could provide a boost to the Bills' defense.

Why it matters

The Bills' defense struggled against the run last season, so adding an experienced, productive linebacker is a priority this offseason. Okereke and Pratt would bring proven talent and familiarity with the Bills' new defensive coordinator to help shore up that area of the team.

The details

Okereke, who previously played under the Bills' new inside linebackers coach John Egorugwu with the Giants, is the more intriguing option. He's averaged over 128 tackles per season over the last three years and could help improve Buffalo's run defense. Pratt, a seven-year pro, had 101 tackles, an interception and two fumble recoveries for the Colts last season after being released by the Raiders.

  • Chenal signed with the Commanders in early free agency.
  • The Bills are looking to add a linebacker either before or after the 2026 NFL Draft.

The players

Bobby Okereke

A 29-year-old linebacker who previously played under the Bills' new inside linebackers coach John Egorugwu with the Giants, averaging over 128 tackles per season over the last three years.

Germaine Pratt

A seven-year veteran linebacker who had 101 tackles, an interception and two fumble recoveries for the Colts in 2025 after being released by the Raiders.

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What they’re saying

“We've got some players that we've talked about how they'll fit in this new scheme with Jim. But we do need to continue to add more.”

— Brandon Beane, President of Football Operations/General Manager, Buffalo Bills

“We have not chosen to add one at this point, but there's also, at this time, there's guys that are like, 'You know what? I didn't get maybe the money I was looking for, whatever. I kind of want to wait until after the draft and see where guys go.'”

— Brandon Beane, President of Football Operations/General Manager, Buffalo Bills

What’s next

The Bills will likely wait until after the 2026 NFL Draft to sign a free agent linebacker, as some players may be willing to take less money to see where they fit best.

The takeaway

The Bills' inability to land Leo Chenal has left them searching for veteran linebacker help, with Okereke and Pratt emerging as two experienced options that could provide a boost to their run defense and fit well in the team's new defensive scheme.