In a whirlwind of roster moves that left fans and analysts stunned, the Buffalo Bills made a surprising U-turn by re-signing undrafted rookie wide receiver Kelly Akharaiyi to their 90-man roster on Saturday, just four days after waiving him. The decision, described as a 96-hour rollercoaster ride, came after the Bills parted ways with second-year pro David White Jr., who was placed on the reserve/retired list following an excused absence from Friday’s practice for personal reasons.
The saga began on Tuesday when the Bills made the tough decision to part ways with Akharaiyi, an undrafted free agent who had joined the team following the 2025 NFL Draft. In his place, Buffalo signed second-year wide receiver David White Jr., seemingly closing the door on Akharaiyi’s immediate future with the team. However, the plot thickened when White was excused from Friday’s practice for personal reasons and subsequently placed on the reserve/retired list, leaving a vacancy on the roster.
Seizing the opportunity, the Bills wasted no time in bringing Akharaiyi back into the fold on Saturday, filling the open spot on their 91-man roster (which includes one player from the NFL International Pathway program). The move caught many by surprise, as few expected the rookie to return so quickly after being let go.
Akharaiyi’s journey to this point has been anything but conventional. The wide receiver’s college career spanned three levels of football, starting in the junior college ranks before a two-year stint at UTEP, where he exploded for a 1,000-yard receiving season in 2023. He later transferred to SEC powerhouse Mississippi State, where he appeared in 11 games, starting seven, and averaged 2.3 receptions per game. His versatility and production across different programs showcased his potential, which the Bills clearly valued when they initially signed him as one of 12 undrafted rookie free agents, including three wide receivers, this past spring.
Since joining Buffalo for rookie minicamp in early May, Akharaiyi has been a part of a crowded wide receiver room, with the Bills currently rostering 14 players at the position for training camp. His brief departure and subsequent return highlight the unpredictable nature of NFL roster battles, especially for undrafted players fighting for a spot.
During the Bills’ voluntary workouts this spring, Akharaiyi demonstrated his athleticism and playmaking ability, often seen sprinting to a spot, stopping on a dime, and turning to catch passes with precision. His resilience and determination have now earned him a second chance to prove himself in Buffalo’s competitive training camp environment.
As the Bills prepare for the upcoming season, Akharaiyi’s unexpected return adds an intriguing storyline to their roster dynamics. Fans will be watching closely to see if the former Mississippi State standout can capitalize on this opportunity and secure a role with the team. For now, Akharaiyi’s whirlwind week serves as a reminder of the unpredictable twists and turns that define the NFL preseason.