Bills Retain Defensive Tackle Ed Oliver Amid Offseason Changes

Buffalo's new head coach Joe Brady will look to build on the team's recent playoff appearances.

Mar. 2, 2026 at 11:31pm

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The Buffalo Bills are undergoing several changes heading into the 2026 NFL season, including a new head coach in Joe Brady. However, the team has no plans to trade away defensive tackle Ed Oliver, who is expected to remain on the roster. The Bills will look to add players that fit their new defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard's scheme, but believe many of their young defensive players are versatile enough that major personnel changes won't be necessary.

Why it matters

The Bills have been a consistent playoff contender in recent years but have yet to reach the Super Bowl with star quarterback Josh Allen. Retaining key defensive pieces like Ed Oliver could be crucial as the team looks to finally break through and win a championship under their new coaching staff.

The details

According to a report from ESPN's Dan Graziano, the Bills have no interest in trading away defensive tackle Ed Oliver, who has been the subject of trade speculation. The team believes Oliver will remain on the roster in 2026 as they look to build around their young defensive talent to fit the scheme of new defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard.

  • The Bills made the NFL Playoffs in 2025 but lost to the Denver Broncos in the postseason.

The players

Ed Oliver

A defensive tackle for the Buffalo Bills who the team has no plans to trade away this offseason.

Joe Brady

The new head coach of the Buffalo Bills, promoted from offensive coordinator. He is known for his positive energy and connection with the players.

Josh Allen

The star quarterback of the Buffalo Bills, who has put together outstanding seasons but has yet to lead the team to a Super Bowl appearance.

Jim Leonhard

The new defensive coordinator for the Buffalo Bills, who the team will look to build around with their young defensive talent.

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What they’re saying

“There has been speculation that defensive tackle Ed Oliver could be available in trade, but I am told that the Bills have no interest in moving him and that they expect him to be on the team in 2026.”

— Dan Graziano, ESPN Reporter

“[Brady's] one of the most positive guys in the building. He's always got juice and energy for the guys. I think that's something that we love and appreciate about him, and he's as real as they come.”

— Josh Allen, Buffalo Bills Quarterback

What’s next

The Bills will look to add players that fit defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard's scheme, but believe many of their young defensive players are versatile enough that major personnel changes won't be necessary.

The takeaway

Retaining key defensive pieces like Ed Oliver could be crucial for the Bills as they look to finally break through and win a championship under their new coaching staff led by the energetic Joe Brady. The team believes it can build around its young defensive talent to complement star quarterback Josh Allen.