Buffalo Bills’ long shot rookie that isn’t being talked about enough has buzz growing around his name
We are getting closer and closer to the 2026 NFL season for the Buffalo Bills with OTAs here. One unheralded rookie for the Bills has some new buzz around his name.
The Buffalo Bills once again have high expectations and that’ll mostly always be the case with Josh Allen at quarterback. Buffalo took steps to set its superstar quarterback up for more success in 2026, including adding WR DJ Moore in the offseason.
When looking at the support Allen has, the Buffalo run game will again be strong with James Cook leading the way. Ty Johnson has been the No. 2 running back and Ray Davis has been the depth.
Bills fans shouldn’t be surprised if an unheralded name ends up rounding out the running back room in 2026.
Bills UDFA is creating some buzz ahead of OTAs
Buffalo didn’t draft a running back but decided to bring in an undrafted free agent who has a chance to make the 53-man roster. Former Pittsburgh standout RB Desmond Reid has been labeled as Buffalo’s most exciting undrafted free agent to watch by Bleacher Report.
“That lack of size and Reid’s injury history led to his going undrafted, and he’s not going to be a lead back in the NFL,” BR’s Gary Davenport wrote. “But the youngster’s explosiveness in the open field, plus pass-catching skills and experience returning punts (including two touchdowns) makes him an interesting prospect if a team can figure out a way to scheme him touches in space.”
Reid is small at 5-foot-6, and 175 pounds, which is a negative on his profile. The former Pitt Panthers standout is a multi-dimensional back who can do damage as both a runner and a pass catcher. Reid ran for 966 yards and five rushing touchdowns in 2024 to go along with 579 receiving yards and four touchdown catches.
The Bills’ newest running back missed a few games in 2025 with Pittsburgh and was used mostly as a pass catcher. Reid had 595 scrimmage yards and four touchdowns as a senior, with 317 of those being receiving yards.
Making the roster won’t be easy, but it’s a possibility for Reid with a clear avenue to being on the team in September. If Reid can prove to add special teams value and challenge Davis and WR Khalil Shakir for return reps. There won’t be a ton of backfield work for Reid, unless an injury happens. So having the ability to make an impact on special teams is a must.
The preseason will be a time for Reid to get on the field and potentially show some of his explosive play-making ability. If he can do that, then he’ll help the buzz around his name grow even more.