The Buffalo Bills are gearing up for their exhibition season opener, set to take place at Highmark Stadium on Saturday at 1 p.m. against the Carolina Panthers. As the team prepares for this matchup, they have released their first unofficial depth chart for the 2026 NFL offseason, crafted by the coaching staff led by Joe Brady.
While unofficial depth charts should be viewed with caution, they provide valuable insights into the team's current roster dynamics and positional battles. Here are four key takeaways from the Bills' initial depth chart for the upcoming season.
One of the most notable changes on the offensive line is the addition of veteran Austin Corbett, who was signed during free agency to compete for the starting left guard position. With David Edwards, last year's starter, having departed as a free agent, Corbett's experience as a former Super Bowl starter with the Los Angeles Rams brings a wealth of knowledge to the team. However, the depth chart lists Alec Anderson as the starting left guard, indicating that competition for the role is still fierce.
Wide receiver Keon Coleman is another player to watch closely this offseason. Entering what he describes as a make-or-break season, Coleman has made a positive impression, as evidenced by his placement above Josh Palmer on the depth chart. Both players are looking to solidify their roles and contribute significantly in the 2026 season, making this a critical year for their careers.
On the defensive line, there is a surprising twist with DeWayne Carter, a third-round pick from the 2024 draft, not being listed as a starter. Instead, Phidarian Mathis, who was a second-round selection by the Washington Commanders in 2022, has claimed the top spot. Mathis, who joined the Bills last September, has been impressive during training camp, while Carter continues to recover from an Achilles injury sustained in August 2025, which has hindered his progress.
Additionally, the depth chart raises questions about the rookie players on the roster. Notably absent from the starting lineup are wide receiver Skyler Bell and linebacker Kaleb Elarms-Orr, both of whom have shown promise during training camp. The Bills' approach appears to emphasize that rookies must earn their spots, as evidenced by the fact that aside from top rookie selection TJ Parker at edge defender, none of the other rookies are currently listed as starters. Even punter Tommy Doman Jr., who was drafted, is positioned as a backup to Mitch Wishnowsky at this stage.
As the Bills prepare for their upcoming game against the Panthers, this unofficial depth chart offers a glimpse into the team's current structure and the competition that lies ahead. Fans will be eager to see how these battles unfold as the exhibition season progresses and how the roster solidifies leading into the regular season.
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