The Buffalo Bills are heading into their final 2025 preseason game with big questions hanging over their roster. For head coach Sean McDermott, the matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers is the last chance to decide who makes the team and who goes home.
With a winless preseason record, the pressure is on, but the biggest decisions revolve around which key players will see the field and which will stay on the sidelines before the games start to count.
Who Will the Bills Rest in the Preseason Finale?
Bills fans hoping to see quarterback Josh Allen get some reps will have to wait for the regular season. McDermott confirmed that Allen will not play in the preseason finale against the Buccaneers.
ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter reported the decision on Thursday, August 21. Notably, this marks the first time in Allen’s career that he will sit out the entire preseason.
Bills HC Sean McDermott told reporters that QB Josh Allen will not play in Saturday night’s preseason finale vs. the Buccaneers, marking the first time in his NFL career that Allen will not play in the preseason. pic.twitter.com/M0oNEeJefi
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 21, 2025
McDermott indicated he is not planning on playing “all the ones” on Saturday but added the caveat that he would see “how today goes” during practice. This case-by-case approach likely means other established veterans will also watch from the sidelines. Based on this reasoning, it’s doubtful that running back James Cook will take any handoffs in the game.
On the other hand, some starters will get playing time. McDermott confirmed that safety Cole Bishop, who is projected to be a starter this season, will see action against Tampa Bay. The coach’s decisions seem geared toward evaluating players on the roster bubble rather than risking injury to his stars.
What Roster Battles Are Still Undecided?
According to NFL.com reporter Eric Edholm, the Bills still have several key position battles to sort out. After a lopsided 38-0 loss to the Chicago Bears, McDermott will want a much better effort from the players who do suit up.
“The Bills sat their starters against Chicago and were blown out, 38-0,” Edholm wrote. “Whether it matters or not, Sean McDermott will want a better effort from his team in this one. It would be shocking if any notable players saw action, but there are still jobs to be secured.”
Edholm highlighted the wide receiver position as a major area of competition. “Tyrell Shavers, Laviska Shenault Jr., and Kristian Wilkerson could be playing musical chairs for one or two seats at the WR table,” he explained. Additionally, Edholm noted that there needs to be “some sorting out on the offensive line and at linebacker.”
Which Young Players Have the Most to Prove?
With veterans resting, the spotlight turns to the team’s younger players fighting for a spot on the 53-man roster. On defense, fans should watch for defensive tackle T.J. Sanders, defensive end Landon Jackson, defensive tackle Deone Walker, and cornerback Dorion Strong. Defensive back Jordan Hancock is another one to watch, though he might miss the game with a shoulder injury.
On the offensive side, tight end Jackson Hawes and offensive lineman Chase Lundt will look to make an impact and prove their value. While Buffalo might want to avoid a winless preseason, the main priority is finalizing the roster ahead of NFL Cutdown Day on Tuesday, August 26. This final game provides the last piece of the puzzle for McDermott and his staff.
