Bills Face Tough Decision After Vikings Sign Backup Lineman to Offer Sheet

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The Buffalo Bills are facing a difficult decision after the Minnesota Vikings signed their backup offensive lineman Ryan Van Demark to an offer sheet. Van Demark, a restricted free agent, was tendered by the Bills last week for $3.52 million. The Vikings' offer puts the Bills in a tough spot as they must now decide whether to match the offer and keep Van Demark or let him go to Minnesota.

Why it matters

Van Demark has been a valuable depth piece for the Bills, filling in admirably when called upon over the past few seasons. However, with the Bills' tight salary cap situation and the presence of other young tackle options, retaining Van Demark at a high cost may not be a luxury they can afford.

The details

Van Demark, who started four games for the Bills last season, has been a solid insurance policy for the team since 2023. The Vikings' offer sheet puts the Bills in a difficult position, as they must decide whether to match the offer and keep Van Demark or let him go to Minnesota. The Bills' other 2026 restricted free agent, Alec Anderson, was signed to a one-year, $3 million contract rather than being tendered, and he has a chance to enter the Bills' starting lineup at guard this season. The Bills also have two young players, Tylan Grable and Chase Lundt, ready to step in at tackle, making Van Demark's spot on the roster somewhat redundant.

• The Vikings signed Ryan Van Demark to an offer sheet on Tuesday, March 18, 2026.
• The Bills have five days, until March 22, 2026, to decide whether to match the Vikings' offer or let Van Demark go to Minnesota.

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.