The Buffalo Bills have three key starters featured on ESPN’s recent ranking of the top 50 impending free agents, with two of them being vital protectors for quarterback Josh Allen.
Center Connor McGovern, left guard David Edwards, and defensive end Joey Bosa all earned spots on the list, which evaluates players based on age, positional value, projected future performance, and scheme adaptability. Buffalo stands out as the only NFL team with two offensive linemen ranked among this elite group of available free agents.
The new league year—and the official start of free agency—begins on March 11. ESPN notes that the list could still change due to potential contract extensions or franchise tags before then.
Here is a breakdown of where each Bills player landed:
No. 35: C Connor McGovern
McGovern, 28, is highlighted for his stability and value at the center position. ESPN praised his mobility in pass protection and his ability to work effectively in space. After playing guard for his first five NFL seasons, McGovern successfully transitioned to become Buffalo’s starting center in 2024 and earned a Pro Bowl selection in his first year at the position. Originally signing a three-year, $22.35 million deal with the Bills in 2023, his estimated market value is now around $16.3 million per year.
No. 36: G David Edwards
Ranked directly behind his linemate, the 28-year-old Edwards is recognized for his excellent footwork and ability to adjust in pass protection, skills that fit perfectly within Buffalo’s offensive scheme. Edwards proved to be a tremendous value for the Bills after signing a two-year, $6 million extension in 2024, appearing in 50 of a possible 51 regular-season games over the past three seasons.
No. 38: DE Joey Bosa
The 30-year-old Bosa, who played in Buffalo on a one-year, $12.6 million contract, makes the list after a resurgent season. He led the entire NFL with five forced fumbles and finished second on the team with five sacks while playing in 15 games—his highest total since 2021. Bosa was a core defender, logging the seventh-most defensive snaps on the team, and has compiled 77 career sacks over 10 seasons.
Bosa’s pending free agency presents a strategic decision for the Bills’ front office: invest significant capital in a proven pass-rush threat or allocate those resources elsewhere while seeking pressure through the draft and more affordable veteran rotations.
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