The Buffalo Bills' 2026 preseason debut against the Carolina Panthers was a showcase of both promise and potential pitfalls. While the final score doesn't matter, the performance of individual players provides valuable insights into the team's current state. Here's a breakdown of the highs and lows, with a heavy dose of personal commentary and analysis.
Keon Coleman: A Positive Afternoon
Keon Coleman, the embattled former second-round pick, had a nice afternoon. Starting the game and seeing plenty of action in the early going, Coleman caught all four of his targets for 17 yards, including the first touchdown at New Highmark Stadium. His ability to move and block, as demonstrated on a reverse to Mecole Hardman Jr., was a highlight. In my opinion, Coleman's performance is a positive sign for his pivotal third season. However, it's important to remember that one preseason game doesn't make or break a player's career. I think Coleman has the potential to be a key contributor, but he'll need to maintain this level of play and prove himself in the regular season.
Offensive Line Woes: OTs Not Named Dion Dawkins
The offensive line, particularly the right tackle position, had its fair share of issues. Spencer Brown whiffed on Jaelan Phillips, leading to pressure on Josh Allen and a field goal attempt. Later, Brown was shoved into Allen's lap, and the same issue occurred with Chase Lundt and Jude Bowry, allowing defensive pressure. In my view, this is a concern. While it's the first preseason game, the offensive line needs to step up and protect the quarterback. I'm not convinced that Lundt and Bowry are capable of stepping in for starters like Brown and Dawkins if needed. It's a position that requires stability and consistency, and the Bills need to address this issue before the regular season begins.
Quarterbacks with the Surname Allen: Excellent Performances
Both Josh Allen and Kyle Allen looked excellent all afternoon. Josh completed 6-of-8 passes for 111 yards and a score, while Kyle Allen was efficient with the reserve group, completing 14-of-16 passes for 108 yards. In my opinion, the play-action pass looked fantastic, and Josh Allen exited the game with zero injuries. Kyle Allen's performance is a positive sign for the backup quarterback position. However, it's important to note that the competition is weak, and the Bills need to find a reliable backup option. I think Kyle Allen has the potential to be a solid backup, but he'll need to prove himself in the regular season.
Safety Issues: Geno Stone
Geno Stone had a rough first half, allowing a passing touchdown and committing a facemask penalty. In my view, this is a concern. As a safety, Stone needs to be reliable and consistent. While it's the first preseason game, Stone needs to improve his performance and prove himself in the regular season. I think he has the potential to be a key contributor, but he'll need to address these issues and show improvement.
Running Back Depth: Lloyd Cushenberry
Lloyd Cushenberry started the game but came out when Josh Allen exited. Conversely, Sedrick Van Pran-Granger played deep into the second half. In my opinion, this tells me that Cushenberry is likely ahead of Van Pran-Granger in the race to back up Connor McGovern. Given that McGovern is currently nursing a hamstring injury, Cushenberry could start in his place. I think this is a positive sign for the Bills' running back depth, but it's important to note that the competition is still ongoing.
Discipline Issues: Sloppy Penalties
There were far too many sloppy penalties in the game. While it's the first preseason game and many of the penalties were on young players, there was at least one penalty on a starter, with Dion Dawkins jumping early for a false start. In my view, this is a concern. Penalties can ruin what otherwise looks like a solid rep, and the Bills need to address this issue before the regular season begins. I think the team needs to focus on discipline and consistency, particularly with the starters.
Linebacker Depth: Dorian Williams
Dorian Williams started the game and made three first-half tackles. However, he was nowhere near the field in the second half, as rookie Kaleb Elarms-Orr and third-year man Joe Andreessen were playing late in the game. In my opinion, this is a little interesting. While it might have been a good sign for the rookie, it's not clear why Andreessen was on the field late