Bills' Pro Bowl Center Appears Headed for Free Agency

Connor McGovern says Buffalo hasn't contacted him this offseason, signaling the end of his tenure with the team.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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Buffalo Bills center Connor McGovern, who made the Pro Bowl in 2024, says the team has not reached out to him at all this offseason. McGovern's contract is expiring, and he believes this means his time with the Bills is likely over, as he heads towards free agency in 2026.

Why it matters

Losing their starting center would be a significant blow to the Bills' offensive line and quarterback Josh Allen. McGovern has been a key part of the Bills' success, and his departure could create a major hole that the team will need to fill.

The details

McGovern signed a three-year, $22.35 million deal with the Bills in 2023 and started all but two regular-season games during his tenure. He revealed that he played through a significant hand injury last season, tearing ligaments and breaking a knuckle, but never missed a game. Despite his strong play, McGovern says the Bills have not reached out to him about a new contract, indicating they may be ready to move on.

  • McGovern signed his current contract with the Bills in March 2023.
  • He made the Pro Bowl following the 2024 season.
  • McGovern's contract is set to expire ahead of the 2026 NFL season.

The players

Connor McGovern

A Pro Bowl center for the Buffalo Bills who is set to become a free agent in 2026.

Josh Allen

The starting quarterback for the Buffalo Bills, who will be impacted by the potential loss of his Pro Bowl center.

Brandon Beane

The general manager of the Buffalo Bills, who will need to decide whether to re-sign McGovern or let him test free agency.

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What they’re saying

“They haven't contacted me once. In my gut, that says it's over and done.”

— Connor McGovern, Bills Center (The Athletic)

“Do I need all the money in the world? No, but there's a respect factor involved, too. There's a certain number in my head that I would have no problem accepting, and then I don't need to go to free agency. If they come to the number that me and my wife are comfortable with, I would gladly say yes and not talk to anybody else.”

— Connor McGovern, Bills Center (The Athletic)

What’s next

The Bills will need to decide whether to re-sign McGovern or let him test free agency. If they do not bring him back, they will have to find a replacement at the crucial center position to protect quarterback Josh Allen.

The takeaway

This situation highlights the difficult decisions NFL teams face in managing their salary cap and retaining key players. The Bills must weigh the value of keeping their Pro Bowl center against the financial constraints they face, which could lead to the departure of a player who has been integral to their success.