Buffalo
Bills

The Buffalo Bills are riding a wave of offensive firepower and emerging defensive impact through the first two weeks of the 2026 NFL season. Offensive coordinator Joe Brady is fully leveraging quarterback Josh Allen’s cannon arm, unleashing a vertical passing attack that’s revitalizing the Bills’ scoring potential. Allen’s average depth of target (aDOT) at 10.5 yards is his highest since his rookie season, with 16.7% of his attempts traveling 20-plus air yards. This aggressive approach, coupled with a 47.1% play-action rate – tops in the league – has resulted in 36 and 41 points in consecutive wins. Allen is making bolder decisions, with 47.1% of his throws going beyond the first down marker, a career-high for this aggressive philosophy. On the defensive side, a surprising name is stepping up: third-year defensive tackle DeWayne Carter. Once considered a preseason cut, Carter has been thrust into a rotational role due to injuries and is exceeding expectations. Carter logged 18 snaps in Week 1 and 31 in Week 2, recording run stops and pressures at an impressive rate. His 11.1% pressure rate and second-ranked run stop win rate among defensive tackles, per Lance Lysowski, highlight his immediate impact. Carter’s offseason body transformation appears to be paying dividends, allowing him to contribute meaningfully in Jim Leonhard’s scheme. Adding to the defensive surge, second-year defensive end Greg Rousseau is having a breakout season. His pressure rate has jumped to 23.1% in Leonhard’s system, with four sacks already through two games, matching his rookie total. Rousseau is showcasing a more complete pass-rush arsenal, combining speed and power to collapse the pocket and finish plays. His ability to convert pressures to sacks is at a career-high 25%. Fellow defensive lineman Deone Walker is also making a significant leap. Initially questioned after his draft selection, Walker has become a high-level disruptor. His pressure rate has more than doubled from last season, now sitting at 17.9%. Walker's improved conditioning and ability to utilize his length are allowing his natural talent to shine, drawing comparisons to DeForest Buckner. The defensive line, bolstered by Rousseau and Walker, is performing at a much higher clip than in previous seasons. Amidst the positive individual performances, the Bills also cleaned up their penalty situation. After a Week 1 marred by flags, they reduced their penalized plays by half against the Detroit Lions. While certain penalties still proved costly, such as defensive holding extending a Lions drive, the overall discipline showed improvement. The team’s ability to win despite self-inflicted wounds was crucial, as they prepare to face an 0-2 Chargers team desperate for a victory on Sunday. In a less significant move, the 49ers are reportedly signing veteran wide receiver Brandin Cooks to their practice squad. Cooks spent time with both the Saints and Bills last season, recording a combined 279 yards over 15 games.