The Buffalo Bills are a powerhouse, and they’re always on the lookout for fresh talent to potentially bolster an already formidable roster. Having a keen eye for emerging stars doesn’t mean they limit their picks to just those on draft night.
Undrafted free agents have often found their way onto the Bills’ 53-man roster, turning heads with their grit and talent. Just ask linebacker Joe Andreesen, who impressed his way onto the team last season.
The likes of Ja’Marcus Ingram, Levi Wallace, Cam Lewis, Tyrel Dodson, and Reggie Gilliam have similarly made the leap from undrafted status to active roster under the guidance of coach Sean McDermott. And we can’t forget Jason Peters, picked up as an undrafted free agent way back in 2004, before going on to a storied career highlighted by nine Pro Bowl selections and a Super Bowl victory.
This year, the Bills have been busy, selecting nine players in the 2025 NFL Draft. But the hard work doesn’t stop there as they continue to build on their 90-man roster. Here’s a closer look at the undrafted free agents they’ve welcomed into the fold:
Kelly Akharaiyi, WR, Mississippi: Originally lighting up the field at UTEP with an impressive 48 catches for 1,033 yards and seven touchdowns in 2023, Akharaiyi transferred to Mississippi State. There, he capped off his college run in the SEC with 25 receptions for 391 yards and two touchdowns.
Jacob Bayer, C, Baylor: A true testament to resilience, the 6-foot-3, 315-pound center started for four years across Lamar and Arkansas State. Despite a torn ACL in spring practice of 2024, Bayer bounced back in record time to start the last 12 games, securing second-team All-Sun Belt Conference honors.
Devin Brandt-Epps, DT, New Mexico: Making his mark in just one year at New Mexico with 29 tackles, including four for loss, Brandt-Epps previously showcased his talent at Old Dominion. There, over three seasons, he collected 84 tackles, three sacks, and 11 tackles for loss.
Stephen Gosnell, WR, Virginia Tech: After stints at North Carolina and then Virginia Tech, Gosnell’s last two years with the Hokies were productive, amassing 22 receptions for 348 yards and two touchdowns in 2023 and another 28 catches for 506 yards and a touchdown in 2024. Fun fact: His brother Benji is making his name as a tight end at Virginia Tech. Gosnell humorously announced his NFL aspirations on social media, embracing the upcoming challenge.
Hayden Harris, DE, Montana: A college journey that took him from UCLA to Montana, Harris was a standout at his new school. In 2023, he delivered 32 tackles and two sacks, and the following year, his performance earned him second-team All-Big Sky honors with 52 tackles, 9.5 sacks, and multiple forced turnovers.
Keonta Jenkins, S, Virginia Tech: Jenkins honed his craft over five seasons at Virginia Tech as a versatile defensive back and linebacker. With 182 tackles, three interceptions, and a knack for disruptive play, he’ll be looking to make a splash with the Bills alongside fellow rookies Dorian Strong and Stephen Gosnell.
Keleki Latu, TE, Washington: Adding 20 pounds to his 6-foot-6 frame in college, Latu stood tall with 40 receptions for 371 yards and a touchdown during his sole season at Washington.
Daryl Porter Jr., CB, Miami: Porter Jr. shone in his two starting years at Miami after starting his collegiate career at West Virginia. Accumulating 108 tackles and an interception, he reunites with Bills’ cornerbacks coach Jahmile Addae, who previously coached him in Miami.
Hal Presley, WR, Baylor: Standing 6-foot-3 and weighing in at 210 pounds, Presley made a name for himself with 32 receptions, 382 yards, and four touchdowns, earning an Honorable Mention All-Big 12 nod.
Paris Shand, DE, LSU: Hailing from Toronto, Shand’s college career at Arizona and LSU was highlighted by 82 tackles, nine sacks, and other defensive accolades. He’s a potential pick for the Canadian Football League draft, further underscoring his dual-threat in both American and Canadian football arenas.
The Bills are certainly proving that undrafted doesn’t mean unnoticed, as these athletes could soon be playing pivotal roles in their quest for glory.
