The Buffalo Bills have been anything but quiet this offseason, shaking up their coaching staff and making key roster decisions. But amid the headlines, they’ve pulled off a stealthy yet impactful move that’s sure to thrill fans and star quarterback Josh Allen alike. On Friday, the Bills re-signed offensive lineman Alec Anderson to a one-year, $3 million deal, securing a reliable backup who’s earned high praise from Allen himself.
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the 6-foot-5, 305-pound Anderson—a restricted free agent—will return to Buffalo after appearing in every game last season. Over his two seasons with the team, he’s started six times, proving his value as a versatile swing tackle. Agent Sam Leaf Ireifej confirmed the deal, highlighting Anderson’s role as a key reserve.
Josh Allen’s Rave Reviews for His ‘Nasty’ Protector
Josh Allen hasn’t held back on his admiration for Anderson. Back in 2024, the franchise quarterback described him as one of the toughest and most dependable players on the offense. “Just a guy that’s really tough, he’s dependable,” Allen told the Rochester Democrat and Chronicle. “He does all the little things the right way. He’s one of the dirty guys—not dirty, but nastier guys that we got on offense that you love to have, one of those guys that just grinds and he’s not afraid to stick up for his teammates. The dude’s a warrior.”
Anderson’s grit has been on full display since joining the Bills as an undrafted free agent from UCLA in 2022. After spending time on the practice squad, he earned a spot on the active roster in 2024 and hasn’t looked back, playing in all 42 games—including playoffs—over the past two seasons.
Crowned the NFL’s ‘Best Sixth Lineman’
It’s not just Allen singing Anderson’s praises. ESPN’s Bill Barnwell named him the league’s top sixth offensive lineman, emphasizing his impact under new head coach Joe Brady. “While the Bills used David Edwards in this role before he moved into the starting lineup in 2024, Anderson has taken it to another level,” Barnwell wrote. “Brady carved out a regular role for Anderson immediately, as he averaged 14 snaps per game.”
Barnwell highlighted Anderson’s prowess in pass protection, noting how he excels at shielding Allen on the edge. This reliability allows the Bills to push the ball downfield from jumbo packages, keeping defenses on their toes and opening up the run game for Allen and running back James Cook.
An Inspirational Journey from Undrafted to Essential
Anderson’s story is as compelling as his play. The son of history teachers, he overcame ADHD through sports, channeling his energy into football. “He is a smart kid, but he was not meant to sit at a desk for six hours a day,” his mother Chrissy shared in a December interview with the Niagara Gazette. “That is what I was very firm about.”
Despite going undrafted, Anderson graduated from UCLA with a history degree, blending brains with brawn. Now, as the Bills eye their first Super Bowl since 1993, re-signing this “nasty” lineman ensures their offensive line remains stout and ready for battle.
This under-the-radar signing might not grab as many headlines as coaching changes or free agent pursuits, but it’s a smart, cost-effective move that bolsters depth and keeps Allen protected. With Anderson back in the fold, Buffalo’s offensive front looks even more formidable heading into the 2026 season.
