Getty Buffalo Bills helmet on the sidelines before a game.
The Buffalo Bills are viewing the 2025 season as an opportunity to reach the Super Bowl finally.
After many years of trying to return to the big game, Buffalo has positioned itself well to attempt to get back to playing on the second Sunday in February.
Buffalo has one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL in Josh Allen, and whenever he takes the field, the team has a chance of pulling off a win, no matter what team they go up against.
While the Bills are looking ahead to the 2025 season, it’s never too early to consider the potential moves the team could make for 2026.
James Cook Could Be Leaving Buffalo In 2026
One big decision Buffalo will need to make next year is what to do with running back James Cook.
Cook is in the final year of his contract and, as of now, has not agreed to any long-term deal.
It has been believed that Cook is asking for $15 million a season, which would be a steep price for the team to pay.
If this is Cook’s last season in Buffalo, then the Bills will be looking for a new running back sometime next offseason.
Buffalo could sign a veteran free agent or take a rookie during the NFL Draft, but whoever is the next running back is going to need help on the offensive line to free them up.
The Bills could be looking to add a new center next offseason, with Connor McGovern’s contract potentially expiring in 2026.
To address this, ESPN’s Matt Miller projects the Bills to draft Jake Slaughter, a standout from the SEC, to solidify their offensive line. Miller notes, “Buffalo has had steady play on the interior line during Josh Allen’s tenure as the starting quarterback, but this would be a prime spot for the Bills to add a starter-caliber player.” Slaughter’s addition would not only fill a potential gap but also elevate Buffalo’s line to new heights.
Why Jake Slaughter Is a Perfect Fit
Jake Slaughter is no ordinary prospect. Standing at 6’5″ and weighing 308 pounds, he brings a rare combination of size, strength, agility, and football IQ to the table. His performance at Florida has been nothing short of dominant. In his last collegiate season, Slaughter didn’t allow a single sack and was penalized only twice, showcasing his discipline and reliability as a pass protector. His athletic profile allows him to excel as either a center or guard at the NFL level, making him a versatile and valuable addition to the Bills’ roster.
“Slaughter is a clean pass protector with power, agility, and exceptional awareness,” Miller writes. His ability to read defenses and make quick decisions in the heat of the game makes him an ideal anchor for Buffalo’s offensive line. With Josh Allen’s dynamic playstyle, having a center like Slaughter who can protect the pocket and open running lanes would be a game-changer for the Bills’ offense.
Building Around Josh Allen
The Bills’ success in 2025 and beyond hinges on maximizing Josh Allen’s prime. Allen, one of the NFL’s elite quarterbacks, gives Buffalo a chance to win against any opponent. However, to compete for a Super Bowl, the team needs a strong supporting cast, particularly on the offensive line. Selecting Slaughter at the 32nd pick—a slot that would imply a successful 2025 season, potentially even a Super Bowl victory—would be a cost-effective way to maintain a high level of play up front.
If Buffalo loses James Cook, the team will likely pair a new running back—whether a veteran free agent or a draft pick—with Slaughter’s elite blocking. This combination could create a balanced and explosive offensive attack, giving Allen the protection and support he needs to thrive.
Looking Ahead to 2026
While the Bills are laser-focused on capturing their first Super Bowl title in 2025, smart planning for 2026 ensures they remain contenders for the long haul. Drafting Jake Slaughter would be a shocking yet brilliant move, securing a 6’5″, 308-pound SEC beast who combines immovable strength with elite agility and football IQ. This move would signal Buffalo’s commitment to building a championship-caliber roster around Josh Allen, keeping them in the hunt for Super Bowl glory.
As the 2025 season unfolds, Bills fans can dream of a deep playoff run while knowing their team is already preparing to dominate the trenches in 2026 with a player like Slaughter leading the way.