Bills’ draft strategy leaves inside linebacker depth exposed as camp begins

The Buffalo Bills enter training camp at St John Fisher University with significant uncertainty at inside linebacker, a vulnerability stemming from General Manager Brandon Beane’s draft strategy. With veterans Matt Milano and Shaq Thompson departing to test free agency, Beane opted to select edge rusher T.J. Parker in the second round, delaying the selection of an inside linebacker until the fourth round when Kaleb Elarms-Orr was drafted.

This decision leaves the Bills relying heavily on Terrel Bernard and Dorian Williams to secure starting roles. Bernard is coming off an injury-plagued 2025 season that saw a decline from his excellent 2023 campaign, while Williams has spent his first three years in Buffalo as an inconsistent backup, accumulating 22 starts primarily due to injuries to his teammates.

Head coach Jim Leonhard expects Bernard to return to form within the team’s new 3-4 defensive scheme. Bernard has expressed optimism about utilising his athleticism in man-to-man cover roles and as a blitzer, positions he employed more frequently in 2023. Leonhard praised Bernard’s professionalism and communication, stating that a full return to health is vital for the unit’s stability.

Williams faces the challenge of finding consistency, particularly in coverage, after missing a portion of Organised Team Activities due to an undisclosed injury that required crutches. Leonhard described Williams as an outstanding physical athlete and indicated that the coaching staff is testing his versatility and leadership to help him adapt to the new defensive system.

The depth chart beyond the two starters is sparse. Excluding Bernard and Williams, the viable options are Elarms-Orr, Joe Andreessen, Keonta Jenkins, and Demetrius Flannigan-Fowles. These four players have a combined total of only 13 NFL starts, with Flannigan-Fowles accounting for 10 of those. Andreessen and Flannigan-Fowles have primarily served as special teams contributors throughout their six-year careers.

Speculation remains that Beane may re-sign Shaq Thompson, a veteran with whom he has a long history, should the depth situation deteriorate. A reunion with Milano is considered less likely given his performance decline last year. The Bills must hope Bernard returns to his 2023 form, Williams capitalises on his opportunity, and Elarms-Orr demonstrates the skill set he showed at TCU.