The Buffalo Bills have been making noise before free agency. The Bills traded for D.J. Moore, cut a plethora of veterans, and now will retain one of their key pieces on the offensive line, center Connor McGovern. Many fans, myself included thought there was no way we could afford to bring back Connor McGovern, but GM Brandon Beane pulled it off. Hopefully, the recent moves continue as the roster shapes up for the 2026 NFL season.
Contract Details
Connor McGovern returns to Buffalo on a new four-year, $52 million deal that includes $32 million guaranteed, solidifying one of the most reliable pieces of the Bills’ offensive front. Since arriving in Buffalo, McGovern has been a steady presence in the interior, providing consistency in both pass protection and the run game. Bringing him back ensures continuity for quarterback Josh Allen and keeps a core part of the offensive line intact heading into the new season.
With McGovern’s extension, four of the five offensive line starters are expected to remain in place, maintaining chemistry for a unit that showed significant improvement as the season progressed. The lone question mark is at guard, where David Edwards is expected to test free agency and likely sign elsewhere unless Buffalo makes a late push to retain him. If Edwards departs, the Bills could look toward the draft or an internal option to fill the final opening while keeping the majority of their offensive line structure unchanged.
History
Connor McGovern arrived in Buffalo in 2023 after spending the first three seasons of his career with the Dallas Cowboys. Since joining the Bills, he has developed into one of the more reliable centers in the league, anchoring the middle of the offensive line with strong communication and physical play in both the run and pass game.
The elite center will now be entering his fourth season in Buffalo and the seventh season of his NFL career, giving the Bills valuable experience and continuity in the heart of their offensive front. His presence has been especially important in helping stabilize protection schemes and keeping the offensive line organized in front of quarterback Josh Allen.
A Look Ahead
Check out all of my previous articles alongside all free agent articles available here: 2026 Free Agency. Make sure to use code DL10 for 10% off all memberships! Also, tune in on YouTube to view our most recent video, where we discuss the blockbuster trade that landed Maxx Crosby in Baltimore. Lastly, don’t forget to try our new mock draft simulator here: Mock Draft Simulator.
