Bills Facing Tough Decision on Veteran Lineman's Offer Sheet

Ryan Van Demark's $4.2 million offer from Vikings puts Bills in a bind over $700,000 contract difference

Mar. 18, 2026 at 11:06am

Buffalo Bills offensive lineman Ryan Van Demark, a restricted free agent, has received a one-year, $4.2 million offer sheet from the Minnesota Vikings. The Bills had previously given Van Demark a qualifying tender of one year and $3.5 million. Now the Bills have five days to decide whether to match the Vikings' higher offer and keep Van Demark, or let him go to Minnesota.

Why it matters

This situation highlights the complexities of restricted free agency in the NFL. While the Bills have the right to match any offer for Van Demark, the $700,000 difference could put a strain on their tight salary cap situation. The decision will reveal how highly the Bills value Van Demark's depth and versatility on the offensive line.

The details

Van Demark, a 6-foot-6, 307-pound lineman, played in all 17 games for the Bills in 2025, starting four. He had played 26 games over the previous two seasons, including two starts. While not a full-time starter, he provides valuable depth and flexibility on the offensive line.

  • Van Demark entered this offseason as a restricted free agent.
  • The Bills gave Van Demark a qualifying tender of one year and $3.5 million.
  • The Vikings have now made Van Demark a one-year, $4.2 million offer sheet.
  • The Bills have 5 days to decide whether to match the Vikings' offer or let Van Demark go.

The players

Ryan Van Demark

A versatile offensive lineman who has played for the Buffalo Bills over the past three seasons.

Buffalo Bills

The NFL team that currently employs Ryan Van Demark and must decide whether to match the Vikings' offer sheet.

Minnesota Vikings

The NFL team that has made a one-year, $4.2 million offer sheet to restricted free agent Ryan Van Demark.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The Bills have until the end of the week to decide whether to match the Vikings' offer sheet and keep Ryan Van Demark, or let him sign with Minnesota.

The takeaway

This situation underscores the fine line NFL teams must walk when managing their salary cap and retaining valuable depth players. The Bills' decision on Van Demark's offer sheet will reveal how they prioritize roster flexibility versus cost savings in their roster-building strategy.