The Buffalo Bills wrapped up their 2026 preseason on a high note Thursday, securing a dramatic 28-27 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers. While the coaching staff kept the starters sidelined to ensure they are fresh for the regular season, the game served as a critical audition for several bubble players. Quarterback Shane Buechele managed the offense effectively, completing 26 of 38 passes for 196 yards, though his modest efficiency may not be enough to climb higher on the depth chart before opening day.
Among the biggest winners of the afternoon was rookie wide receiver Skyler Bell. The fourth round pick looked every bit the versatile weapon Buffalo hopes he becomes, hauling in seven catches and capping off his night with a twenty eight yard touchdown run. His ability to create plays both through the air and on the ground provided a spark for an offense looking to maximize its support system around Josh Allen. Similarly, linebacker Keonta Jenkins made a strong case for his roster spot by leading the team in solo tackles while adding a sack and a tackle for loss during his extended playing time.
Not everyone found success under the lights, however. Veteran receiver Mecole Hardman Jr. struggled to find any rhythm, managing only one catch for two yards in a disappointing showing. On the defensive side of the ball, second year draft pick DeWayne Carter failed to disrupt the Steelers’ interior line, recording just one tackle throughout the contest. These lackluster performances leave both players with plenty of work to do in final practices if they want to secure consistent snaps once games actually count toward wins and losses.
Rounding out the mixed bag was running back Frank Gore Jr., who put together one of his most complete preseason outings yet. Though his rushing numbers were modest, he proved highly reliable as a safety valve in the passing game by catching everything thrown his way for forty five yards and adding a score on the ground. As Buffalo moves into week one with a perfect three zero exhibition record, these flashes of talent among the reserves suggest that while the stars will lead them, there is promising depth waiting in the wings.