Buffalo, NY – May 13, 2025
The Buffalo Bills welcomed back a franchise legend, as former center Eric Wood joined the coaching staff as the new Offensive Line Coach, sources told ESPN’s Adam Schefter on May 13, 2025. The move aims to bolster Buffalo’s line for a Super Bowl run.
Wood, who retired in 2018 at age 31 due to a neck injury, spent nine seasons with the Bills, starting 120 games and earning a Pro Bowl nod in 2015. His return marks a homecoming for the 39-year-old, who has deep ties to Bills Mafia.
“I’m back to help this team win a championship,” Wood told The Buffalo News’ Ryan O’Halloran. “Buffalo means everything to me.”
The Bills’ offensive line, ranked 10th in pass-blocking last season, needs stability at right tackle, where Spencer Brown allowed six sacks in 2024. Wood’s expertise could elevate stars like Dion Dawkins and O’Cyrus Torrence for a deeper playoff push.
Brandon Beane has prioritized protecting Josh Allen, who threw for 4,306 yards in his MVP season. With James Cook’s $15 million contract dispute ongoing, the Bills hope Wood’s leadership will solidify the line, ranked 8th in run-blocking, to support Cook’s 1,086-yard campaign.
Wood, a former team captain, brings a high football IQ from his playing days and recent experience as a Bills radio broadcaster since 2018. He replaces Aaron Kromer, who transitioned to a senior assistant role, as the team eyes its first Super Bowl title.
“Wood’s a perfect fit,” said NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. “His knowledge and connection to the Bills will inspire this line.”
With a stacked home schedule featuring the Chiefs and Ravens, the Bills see Wood as a key to unlocking their offensive potential. His return could be the spark Buffalo needs to finally claim Super Bowl glory.
