Bills' DeWayne Carter Declares Recovery Timeline for Training Camp

Former third-round pick's status could impact Buffalo's draft plans along the defensive line.

Apr. 19, 2026 at 12:49am

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the explosive movements and collisions of a defensive lineman, conveying the raw energy and physicality of football through Picasso's distinctive cubist style.A cubist interpretation of a defensive tackle's raw power and athleticism, reflecting the Bills' need to strengthen their defensive line.Buffalo Today

Buffalo Bills defensive tackle DeWayne Carter, who missed the 2025 season due to an Achilles injury, has declared that he will be ready to go for the team's training camp this summer. Carter's recovery timeline and ability to contribute in the upcoming season could influence the Bills' draft plans as they look to bolster their defensive line.

Why it matters

The Bills struggled against the run and generating consistent pass rush in 2025, finishing 20th in the league in sacks. If the team is unsure about Carter's ability to return to form, they may prioritize addressing the defensive line early in the 2026 NFL Draft. However, if they believe Carter can still be a factor, it could allow them to wait on that position and focus on other needs.

The details

Carter, a third-round pick by the Bills in 2024, had a disappointing rookie season plagued by injuries before suffering a season-ending Achilles tear prior to the 2025 campaign. The team drafted two interior defensive linemen, T.J. Sanders and Deone Walker, in the first four rounds of last year's draft, indicating they may be looking to add more talent up front. If the Bills are confident in Carter's recovery, it could allow them to wait on the position in the upcoming draft. But if they have doubts, they may target a defensive tackle early on.

  • Carter tore his Achilles tendon before the start of the 2025 season.
  • Carter recently declared he will be ready for Bills training camp this summer.

The players

DeWayne Carter

A former third-round pick by the Buffalo Bills in 2024 who missed the 2025 season due to an Achilles injury.

T.J. Sanders

A second-round pick by the Buffalo Bills in the 2025 NFL Draft, drafted to help bolster the team's defensive line.

Deone Walker

A fourth-round pick by the Buffalo Bills in the 2025 NFL Draft, also drafted to help improve the team's defensive line.

Ed Oliver

The Bills' top returning defensive lineman heading into the 2026 season.

Jim Leonhard

The Bills' new defensive coordinator, who will be tasked with improving the team's defense in 2026.

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What they’re saying

“I'll be ready to go. I'm excited. I'm really excited.”

— DeWayne Carter, Bills Defensive Tackle

What’s next

The Bills will monitor Carter's progress throughout the offseason and into training camp to determine if he can regain his form and contribute in 2026. Their confidence in his ability to do so could impact their draft strategy and approach to addressing the defensive line.

The takeaway

DeWayne Carter's recovery timeline and potential to bounce back from his Achilles injury will be a key storyline to watch for the Bills this offseason. If the team believes he can be a factor, it may allow them to wait on addressing the defensive line in the draft. But if they have doubts, they could target that position early on to ensure they improve their run defense and pass rush.