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The Buffalo Bills are entering a crucial phase of their offseason as they prepare for the 2026 NFL season. Following their move to a 34 defensive scheme under new coordinator Jim Leonhard, the team's linebacker depth has emerged as a significant concern. The struggles of starters Terrel Bernard and Dorian Williams, who have battled injuries and coverage issues, have intensified the need for reliable reinforcement at the position.
General Manager Brandon Beane has indicated that the draft could help address Buffalo's linebacker gap, but the team faces obstacles. The Bills hold a late first-round pick and no second-round selection after trading it to the Chicago Bears in the D.J. Moore deal.
Meanwhile, highly touted prospects like Georgia linebacker C.J. Allen are attracting attention from multiple franchises, including the Dallas Cowboys, New York Giants, and New York Jets, which complicates the Bills' draft plans.
Amid these uncertainties, veteran linebacker Shaq Thompson has expressed interest in returning to Buffalo. Thompson, who previously played under the Bills' former coaching staff after a lengthy career with the Carolina Panthers, confirmed on social media that he is "trying to" rejoin the team in free agency.
His return could provide immediate support, particularly as the Bills seek experienced players capable of adapting quickly to Leonhard's defensive system.
Thompson could fill immediate linebacker needs
At 31, Thompson brings versatility and leadership to the field. Last season, he logged 56 tackles and forced a fumble in 12 appearances, demonstrating productivity even without starting every game.
His experience in both 34 and 43 schemes could offer Buffalo tactical flexibility, helping bridge the gap while younger draft prospects develop. However, salary cap considerations may complicate a reunion.
With roughly $13 million in available cap space and recent contract restructures for players like Josh Allen and D.J. Moore, the Bills must weigh the financial impact of re-signing Thompson, whose market value is projected at around $2.3 million.
While linebacker depth dominates the offseason discussion, quarterback Josh Allen remains central to Buffalo's outlook. New head coach Joe Brady recently offered an encouraging update on Allen's recovery from offseason foot surgery.
According to Brady, Allen is "good to go" and has shown no lingering effects from his procedure. The quarterback is reportedly eager to work with new offensive pieces like D.J. Moore and embrace the team's evolving identity.
With Allen healthy and defensive decisions pending, the Bills face a delicate balancing act. Whether through free agency, draft strategy, or smart cap management, Buffalo must address its linebacker vulnerabilities while maintaining flexibility to support its star quarterback.