Talking Buffalo

Patrick Moran is joined by Joe from Queens for a spirited, funny and occasionally combative recap of the first week of Buffalo Bills training camp at St. John Fisher University. They debate how much anyone should take away from a few non-padded practices, identify the players creating early buzz and examine several roster battles that could shape the Bills’ final 53-man roster.

The Talking Buffalo online merch store is now live! You can purchase t shirts, hoodies, zip ups, crewnecks and polos in a couple of different styles and colors. Visit our online page for pricing and options and while there, check out Buf on Weck for tons of cool gear!

Please be sure to subscribe to Talking Buffalo on the audio side, even if you usually watch the show via YouTube. Several of the links to follow Talking Buffalo can be found right here.

Also if you’re not yet subscribed to Talking Buffalo on YouTube, please do so and be sure to hit the LIKE button on the videos, it really helps with the algorithm!

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The Buffalo Bills appear to have avoided a potentially devastating injury to C.J. Gardner-Johnson. In this bonus weekend episode of Talking Buffalo, Patrick Moran shares his firsthand observations from the third day of Bills training camp at St. John Fisher University.

Patrick begins with the biggest story from Saturday’s practice: Gardner-Johnson suffering a non-contact lower-leg injury. Although the scene initially created fears of a torn Achilles, the injury was diagnosed as a lower-calf strain. Gardner-Johnson could still miss time, but the news was a major relief considering how impressive he looked during the opening practices.

If Gardner-Johnson is sidelined for several weeks, Geno Stone appears to be the next safety in line. Stone immediately replaced him with the starting defense and had already been receiving work in Buffalo’s dime packages. Patrick discusses Stone’s quietly encouraging start to camp and why his roster position appears more secure.

The Bills offense finally produced several crowd-pleasing moments after two relatively uneventful practices. Josh Allen connected with Josh Palmer for the play of the day—a deep completion down the left sideline that would likely have resulted in a touchdown. Palmer continues to look fast, fluid and healthy while consistently catching nearly everything thrown his way.

Dalton Kincaid also made an impressive catch down the left sideline after beating Cole Bishop. Kincaid looks healthy, quick and comfortable through three practices, displaying the effortless hands that have consistently stood out during training camp. Ty Johnson followed with another sizable reception in the same area of the field.

Buffalo also experimented with some creative offensive concepts, including a double-reverse flea-flicker that ultimately became a short screen with multiple blockers in front. Rookie receiver Skyler Bell received another end-around opportunity and continues to intrigue Patrick with his route-running, movement and ability to potentially contribute at multiple levels of the field.

It was another quiet practice for Keon Coleman, but Patrick stresses that Coleman has not necessarily done anything wrong. He has continued working hard, running his routes and avoiding major mistakes; the football simply has not come his way very often during the past two practices.

The starting right guard competition remains legitimate. Alec Anderson and Austin Corbett continue alternating series with the first-team offense. Anderson may have a slight advantage, but Corbett remains firmly involved and no winner has emerged.

Patrick also explains why the poor play of backup quarterbacks Kyle Allen and Shane Buechele is becoming increasingly concerning. Beyond the possibility of Josh Allen missing a few games, their inaccurate throws are making it difficult to properly evaluate receivers, tight ends and defensive backs near the bottom of the roster.

On defense, Terrel Bernard returned without limitations and participated fully in seven-on-seven and 11-on-11 work. His return is encouraging, although his ability to remain healthy remains one of the defense’s most important questions. Dorian Williams participated in full-speed seven-on-seven drills but was held out of competitive 11-on-11 work as the Bills continued easing him back.

Rookie linebacker Kaleb Elarms-Orr has handled a heavy workload throughout camp. Although he has not produced many splash plays yet, his intensity and work ethic have been impossible to miss. Patrick expects a clearer evaluation of the linebackers and linemen once the pads come on.

Two rookie defensive backs have emerged as early camp standouts. Fifth-round safety Jalon Kilgore recorded the defensive play of the day with a diving interception and has consistently made plays on the football. Gardner-Johnson’s injury could create an opportunity for Kilgore to receive more work with the second-team defense—or possibly even some first-team snaps.

Undrafted cornerback Kenny Walker has been another pleasant surprise. Walker has stayed tight in coverage, produced multiple pass breakups and appears to be ahead of seventh-round pick Toriano Pride Jr. in the competition for a reserve boundary-cornerback role. Even if Walker does not make the initial 53-man roster, he is establishing himself as a strong practice-squad candidate.

Second-round rookie Davison Igbinosun has experienced a more uneven opening to camp. He made a quality pass breakup against DJ Moore but was also beaten by Palmer on Saturday’s deep completion. Patrick is not alarmed, but the anticipated competition between Igbinosun and Maxwell Hairston has not materialized yet. Hairston has received all the first-team work and appears firmly positioned to start if he remains healthy.

There is not much to take away from the offensive and defensive lines until padded practices begin. However, Landon Jackson has entered the defensive-line rotation early in several sequences and could challenge T.J. Sanders for playing time. Michael Hoecht has also practiced without noticeable limitations for two consecutive days, which is an encouraging sign for his recovery.

On special teams, Mitch Wishnowsky handled the punting duties and performed well while working on attempts from inside midfield. Mecole Hardman muffed an uncontested punt, adding more pressure to his roster candidacy. Keon Coleman received the first punt-return opportunity and remains Patrick’s current favorite to handle that role in Week 1.

The Bills have conducted relatively short and controlled practices through the first three days, emphasizing installation and workload management. Patrick views that positively and believes keeping players healthy should remain the priority, even as the intensity increases when the pads come on.

Patrick will attend all four remaining practices at St. John Fisher, along with the Return of the Blue & Red practice and the later open practice at Highmark Stadium. Talking Buffalo will continue delivering firsthand observations throughout camp.

Joe Marino of Locked On Bills will join Patrick for a live podcast at Sonny Red’s, located at 1841 Abbott Road, on Tuesday, August 4 at 8:00 p.m. Fans can attend in person or watch live on YouTube, Facebook and X.

The Talking Buffalo online merch store is now live! You can purchase t shirts, hoodies, zip ups, crewnecks and polos in a couple of different styles and colors. Visit our online page for pricing and options and while there, check out Buf on Weck for tons of cool gear!

Please be sure to subscribe to Talking Buffalo on the audio side, even if you usually watch the show via YouTube. Several of the links to follow Talking Buffalo can be found right here.

Also if you’re not yet subscribed to Talking Buffalo on YouTube, please do so and be sure to hit the LIKE button on the videos, it really helps with the algorithm!

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Patrick Moran is joined by Mike Bundt of Trainwreck Sports for a field-level recap immediately following the Buffalo Bills’ second training camp practice at St. John Fisher University. The rain returned, the pads were still off and the practice remained relatively light, but several early trends began to emerge.

DJ Moore’s growing connection with Josh Allen provided the biggest reason for optimism. Kyle Allen’s uneven performance raised questions about the backup quarterback position, while several rookies and lesser-known players began making their cases in wide-open roster battles. Patrick and Mike also discuss Joe Brady’s early approach to camp, the athletic potential of Buffalo’s secondary, the competition at guard, linebacker and cornerback, and an unexpectedly important part of the punter battle: holding for field goals.

DJ Moore already looks capable of becoming Buffalo’s featured receiver. His route running, separation and early chemistry with Josh Allen stood out during both seven-on-seven and team work.

The backup quarterback position is an early concern. Kyle Allen struggled with accuracy and threw the first interception of camp, creating an opening for Shane Buechele to challenge for the No. 2 job.

Joe Brady appears to be emphasizing load management. Established players are receiving short bursts of work, especially along the defensive line, while younger players are getting valuable early reps.

Buffalo’s young secondary may be one of the defense’s most exciting units. Jalen Kilgore, Jordan Hancock, Maxwell Hairston and Kenny Walker are among the players generating early intrigue.

Several presumed roster spots are far from secure. The battles at guard, fourth boundary corner, off-ball linebacker, fullback and punter could remain competitive throughout camp.

For the second consecutive day, the Bills practiced in rainy conditions at St. John Fisher. Patrick and Mike recorded from the hospitality area just off the field, giving them an unusually close look at the players’ size, speed and physical presence.

The field-level perspective offered a better feel for how quickly everything happens, although it made team drills harder to follow once players crowded the sideline. Mike spent part of practice from a higher vantage point, which made it easier to see routes develop and understand the structure of each play.

Practice lasted approximately 90 minutes and continued the gradual pace established on Day 1. With no pads, no receiver-versus-defensive back one-on-ones and limited intensity during eleven-on-eleven periods, both hosts cautioned against drawing major conclusions. The more meaningful observations involved personnel usage, repetitions and early depth-chart positioning.

DJ Moore was the most impressive offensive player of the day. He made multiple explosive plays and showed why Buffalo invested a second-round pick to acquire him.

During seven-on-seven work, Moore created significant separation from Dee Alford on a deep play. Josh Allen had more time than he would normally receive in a game, but Moore still clearly won the matchup. Later, in an eleven-on-eleven period, Moore beat IGB on a post route and Allen delivered the ball between the corner and safety Geno Stone for a gain that likely would have exceeded 30 yards.

Patrick and Mike believe Moore gives Buffalo something its receiving corps lacked over the previous two seasons: a legitimate option with No. 1-receiver ability. They stopped short of comparing him to Stefon Diggs or declaring him a top-10 NFL receiver, but both see the potential for Moore to produce a 1,000-yard season.

The “Everybody Eats” approach may still exist, but the early indication is that Moore will receive the largest portion of the offense.

The most concerning development was Kyle Allen’s performance. Patrick was already skeptical of the offseason signing and has not seen anything through two practices to change that opinion.

Allen made several poor throws and was responsible for the first interception of training camp when Joe Andreessen picked off an errant pass over the middle. The second-team offense has lacked rhythm when Josh Allen leaves the field.

The concern is not about replacing Josh Allen for an extended period, because a long-term injury to the franchise quarterback would dramatically alter Buffalo’s season regardless of the backup. The real question is whether the Bills have someone capable of going .500—or slightly better—during a short absence of two to four games. Patrick felt Mitch Trubisky offered that possibility in previous seasons but does not currently have the same confidence in Kyle Allen.

Shane Buechele could have a legitimate opportunity to win the backup job. If neither quarterback improves, the position may become one Buffalo needs to address.

The overall structure of camp has not changed dramatically, but the atmosphere feels different with Joe Brady as head coach. Mike has noticed a different musical selection and more visible interaction between Brady and players during practice.

The most obvious football-related change is the frequency of rotations and the apparent focus on workload management. Defensive linemen are often taking only two or three repetitions before rotating out. Spencer Brown also received short stretches of work before another tackle stepped in with the first unit.

Veteran defenders such as Ed Oliver, Greg Rousseau and Bradley Chubb are being brought along carefully. Terrel Bernard and Dorian Williams did not participate in team drills for the second straight day, creating extra opportunities for younger linebackers.

Patrick and Mike view the cautious approach positively, especially after injuries became a recurring problem during recent camps. The lighter workload also gives the new coaching staff more chances to evaluate the bottom half of the roster.

Another notable difference is the absence of one-on-one drills. Those matchups typically produce some of the most revealing and entertaining moments of camp, particularly between top receivers and cornerbacks. That could simply be part of a slow build before the pads come on, but it will become a more meaningful trend if the format continues.

The competition between Alec Anderson and Austin Corbett appears legitimate.

Anderson opened Day 1 with the first team, but Corbett received the first-team repetitions at guard during the initial eleven-on-eleven period on Day 2 while Anderson worked with the second unit. Despite optimism surrounding Anderson, the Bills are not simply handing him the starting job.

Preseason performance could be particularly important in this battle. Anderson may be the preferred long-term option for some fans, but he still needs to prove he can earn an NFL starting role.

Skyler Bell did not record a catch or target during team work, but his usage during individual drills caught Patrick’s attention.

On Day 1, Bell worked at the very back of the receiver group and caught most of his passes from a reserve quarterback. On Day 2, he moved into the third row—immediately behind Buffalo’s top four receivers—and every pass thrown to him during receiver drills came from Josh Allen.

That does not guarantee an immediate offensive role, but it is a notable step for a fourth-round rookie. Repetitions with the starting quarterback are valuable, and the Bills would not use Allen’s practice workload on Bell without wanting to explore the potential connection.

Bell appears smooth and instinctive enough to earn opportunities later in the season, even if he does not contribute heavily in September. Elsewhere on offense, Dawson Knox made a quality catch over the middle, while Keon Coleman had a quiet practice after drawing significant attention on Day 1.

C.J. Gardner-Johnson made a strong impression with a pass breakup on a deep throw intended for Josh Palmer. His communication, confidence and willingness to talk stood out throughout practice.

The Bills have lacked some of Gardner-Johnson’s edge and swagger in recent seasons. If he performs well enough to support it, that attitude could become an important part of the defense.

At the same time, Patrick considers him one of the roster’s clearest boom-or-bust players. His ceiling includes Pro Bowl-caliber production, turnovers, leadership and the experience of playing for winning teams. His floor includes inconsistency or a personality fit that deteriorates quickly. Either outcome would be believable based on his career.

One small but encouraging detail: Gardner-Johnson was among the first players on the field before practice.

Rookie Jalen Kilgore was Patrick’s most impressive defensive player of the day. On consecutive plays, Kilgore broke up a deep pass intended for Mack Hollins and then put himself in position for what would have been a physical tackle in a full-contact setting.

Kilgore has a sturdy build and the versatility to become a useful defensive chess piece. Through two practices, however, all of his repetitions have come at safety. Jordan Hancock, meanwhile, has worked exclusively at nickel. That alignment could suit both players naturally.

The secondary as a whole may be the most exciting part of Buffalo’s defense. Christian Benford remains the established star, while Maxwell Hairston offers elite speed and IGB brings a different physical skill set. Cole Bishop also belongs among the unit’s most important young defenders.

Early coverage has been tight, and receiver struggles have not always been self-inflicted. The development of this group could determine the defense’s ceiling.

Despite expectations of a starting competition between Maxwell Hairston and IGB, there has not been one through two days. Hairston has taken all of the first-team repetitions, while IGB has worked exclusively with the second unit.

That does not make IGB a disappointment. Buffalo needs depth, and the two corners offer different matchup tools. IGB could still contribute in sub-packages or grow into a larger role without starting in Week 1.

The quieter cornerback competition is for the fourth boundary spot. Seventh-round pick Toriano Pride and undrafted rookie Kenny Walker have been alternating, with Walker making enough plays to enter the conversation. He recorded a pass breakup on Day 1 and has continued to receive meaningful evaluation opportunities.

Buffalo could still add a veteran—possibly even bringing Tre’Davious White back—but Walker is an undrafted player worth monitoring if the team stays with its current group.

Undrafted fullback Jackson Acker showed more speed and better hands than Patrick expected during individual drills. His sample was small, but he could push the veteran competition at the position.

At linebacker, the absence of Bernard and Williams has created a heavy workload for the younger players. One young linebacker has received repetitions with both the starting and third-team units, giving the coaching staff an extended look at his development.

The presumed fourth off-ball linebacker spot is also unsettled. Joe Andreessen’s hometown story makes him a fan favorite, but Caden Jenkins has received first-team work on consecutive days. Andreessen helped his case with the interception of Kyle Allen, yet his place on the final roster should not be treated as a lock.

The uncertainty is especially interesting because both Joe Brady and defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard are installing new systems and evaluating the roster with fresh eyes. Past assumptions about how the Bills value certain players may no longer apply.

Although there was no live punting period, Tommy Doman and Mitch Wishnowsky worked on holding for field goals. Patrick focused on the drill because the winner of the punting competition will also need to function reliably as Tyler Bass’s holder.

Doman punted well on Day 1 and remains Patrick’s early favorite to win the job, but Wishnowsky looked clearly better as a holder during this session. The details of the hold—placement, angle and consistency—can have a meaningful effect on a kicker, making this an important part of the competition.

Tyler Bass still has not attempted a live field goal during camp. Kickoffs were handled by a machine, and the lack of kicking work is beginning to look unusual. Still, neither host expressed serious concern because Buffalo has not added another kicker to the 90-man roster. If the organization believed Bass had a significant issue, it would likely have brought in competition.

The defensive line has looked solid through two practices, with the important reminder that the pads have not yet come on.

Buffalo plans to rely on several young or unfamiliar players taking a step forward. TJ Sanders, Landon Jackson and TJ Parker were among the names highlighted, and Jackson received first-team work on Day 2. If the Bills maintain a deep rotation during the season, contributions from that young group will be essential.

The Talking Buffalo online merch store is now live! You can purchase t shirts, hoodies, zip ups, crewnecks and polos in a couple of different styles and colors. Visit our online page for pricing and options and while there, check out Buf on Weck for tons of cool gear!

Please be sure to subscribe to Talking Buffalo on the audio side, even if you usually watch the show via YouTube. Several of the links to follow Talking Buffalo can be found right here.

Also if you’re not yet subscribed to Talking Buffalo on YouTube, please do so and be sure to hit the LIKE button on the videos, it really helps with the algorithm!

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Follow Patrick Moran/Talking Buffalo Podcast 

Substack: Patrick Moran’s Substack

Twitter: @PatrickMoranTB

Blue Sky: @PatrickMoranTB.bsky.social

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Buffalo Bills football is officially back. On this episode of Talking Buffalo, Patrick Moran shares his firsthand observations from a wet and windy Day 1 of training camp at St. John Fisher University.

The opening practice lasted roughly 90 minutes and featured limited 11-on-11 work, one short 7-on-7 period, no one-on-ones, no red-zone work and no pads. Even with the lighter format, several developments caught Patrick’s attention. DJ Moore made one of the day’s best catches, James Cook flashed his elite burst and Keon Coleman followed an opening drop with a strong over-the-shoulder reception against Maxwell Hairston.

Coleman also received the first punt-return rep of camp, putting him squarely in the special-teams conversation alongside Mecole Hardman. Patrick evaluates what that could mean for Coleman and Buffalo’s roster construction, then turns to the punting competition after rookie Tommy Doman Jr. appeared to outperform veteran Mitch Wishnowsky on the first day.

The biggest depth-chart surprise came at linebacker, where Keonta Jenkins took first-team work while Joe Andreessen worked with the reserves. Patrick also examines the legitimate left-guard competition between Alec Anderson and Austin Corbett, Jude Bowry’s early opportunity at swing tackle, and the current pecking order in the secondary.

Finally, Patrick shares encouraging impressions of Dalton Kincaid, Josh Palmer, Skyler Bell and Michael Hoecht, while noting that Bell is beginning camp near the bottom of the receiver rotation and will have to earn his way up. Plus, Kani Walker makes an early play, Kyle Allen’s accuracy disappoints, and Patrick gives his unfiltered verdict on the Bills’ new uniforms.

Keon Coleman had the full Keon Coleman experience. He dropped the first pass of camp in rainy conditions, then immediately responded with a difficult over-the-shoulder catch against Maxwell Hairston. More importantly, Coleman took the first punt-return rep and may have the inside track to that job.

The punter competition produced an early leader. Seventh-round rookie Tommy Doman Jr. handled most of the work and, to Patrick’s eye, showed better distance and hang time than Mitch Wishnowsky. It is only one practice, but the competition is worth tracking.

Keonta Jenkins delivered the day’s biggest depth-chart surprise. With Terrel Bernard and Dorian Williams being brought along slowly, Jenkins received the first-team linebacker reps while Joe Andreessen worked with the third group.

Several roster battles already look legitimate. Alec Anderson and Austin Corbett split first-team opportunities at left guard, Maxwell Hairston opened every sequence opposite Christian Benford, Jordan Hancock worked exclusively at nickel and rookie Jalon Kilgore lined up exclusively at safety.

The pass-catchers supplied most of the positive impressions. Dalton Kincaid looked smooth and reliable, Josh Palmer appeared quick and confident, and rookie Skyler Bell displayed natural hands and route-running ability—even though he began the day near the bottom of the receiver rotation.

Today’s episode is brought to you by the law offices of William Mattar. Hurt in a car, call William Mattar. 444-4444. Call William Mattar today to get the compensation you deserve.

The Talking Buffalo online merch store is now live! You can purchase t shirts, hoodies, zip ups, crewnecks and polos in a couple of different styles and colors. Visit our online page for pricing and options and while there, check out Buf on Weck for tons of cool gear!

Please be sure to subscribe to Talking Buffalo on the audio side, even if you usually watch the show via YouTube. Several of the links to follow Talking Buffalo can be found right here.

Also if you’re not yet subscribed to Talking Buffalo on YouTube, please do so and be sure to hit the LIKE button on the videos, it really helps with the algorithm!

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Follow Patrick Moran/Talking Buffalo Podcast 

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The Buffalo Bills’ offseason is officially over, and training camp has arrived. Patrick Moran is joined by Matt Warren of Buffalo Rumblings and SB Nation for an extensive preview of the biggest players, competitions and storylines to follow at St. John Fisher University.

Patrick and Matt begin with their unfiltered reactions to Buffalo’s new “Nickel City” alternate uniforms before discussing why a blockbuster trade for Tampa Bay defensive tackle Vita Vea sounds much better on paper than it would work financially.

They also debate Keon Coleman’s remaining breakout potential, identify possible surprise roster cuts and examine how Buffalo’s defense could change under Jim Leonhard. Other topics include Michael Hoecht’s recovery, the backup quarterback battle, Tyler Bass, the punt-return competition and realistic expectations for rookie pass rusher T.J. Parker.

The episode concludes with predictions for Buffalo’s 2026 training-camp darlings, including Max Hairston, Skyler Bell and Zane Durant.

Today’s episode is brought to you by the law offices of William Mattar. Hurt in a car, call William Mattar. 444-4444. Call William Mattar today to get the compensation you deserve.

The Talking Buffalo online merch store is now live! You can purchase t shirts, hoodies, zip ups, crewnecks and polos in a couple of different styles and colors. Visit our online page for pricing and options and while there, check out Buf on Weck for tons of cool gear!

Please be sure to subscribe to Talking Buffalo on the audio side, even if you usually watch the show via YouTube. Several of the links to follow Talking Buffalo can be found right here.

Also if you’re not yet subscribed to Talking Buffalo on YouTube, please do so and be sure to hit the LIKE button on the videos, it really helps with the algorithm!

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Follow Patrick Moran/Talking Buffalo Podcast 

Substack: Patrick Moran’s Substack

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Buffalo Bills training camp is finally here, and Patrick Moran is ready to shift from offseason projections to what is actually happening on the field. In this episode of Talking Buffalo, Patrick identifies five veteran Bills players he will be watching especially closely at St. John Fisher University: Deone Walker, Max Hairston, Terrel Bernard, Dalton Kincaid and Josh Palmer.

Can Walker turn his flashes of dominance into a breakout second season? Will Hairston hold off the competition at cornerback after injuries disrupted his rookie year? Can Bernard rediscover the aggressive, playmaking form he showed in 2023? Patrick also explains why Kincaid’s health could transform Buffalo’s offense and why Palmer may be fighting for both a meaningful role and his roster spot.

The episode also covers Buffalo’s new “Nickel City” uniforms, notable jersey-number changes, Patrick’s extensive training-camp coverage plans and several position battles worth following—including the crowded defensive tackle room, Dorian Williams versus rookie Kaleb Elarms-Orr at linebacker and the unsettled punt-returner job.

Deone Walker has star potential. His rookie statistics did not tell the entire story; he flashed the strength and disruptive ability to become one of the NFL’s better defensive tackles if he develops greater consistency.

Max Hairston enters a pivotal camp. Injuries derailed much of his rookie season, but Patrick still believes the former first-round pick showed enough promise to compete for a starting role.

Terrel Bernard is essential to the defense. With uncertainty elsewhere at linebacker, Buffalo needs Bernard to remain healthy and return to the aggressive, splash-play form he displayed in 2023.

Dalton Kincaid may be Buffalo’s biggest offensive X-factor. Josh Allen’s production was dramatically better with Kincaid available last season, making the tight end’s health and usage critical.

Josh Palmer has opportunity—and pressure. A healthy Palmer could exploit favorable matchups as Buffalo’s third or fourth receiver, but another injury-plagued camp could put his roster spot in jeopardy.

Times are approximate because the supplied transcript contains only the opening timecode.

00:00 — Welcome, sponsor message and Talking Buffalo’s training-camp coverage plans

06:30 — Live podcast with Joe Marino, local business spotlight and the new “Nickel City” uniforms

13:30 — Updated Bills jersey numbers and why frequent number changes frustrate fans

17:30 — Five veterans to watch: Deone Walker, Max Hairston and Terrel Bernard

29:30 — Dalton Kincaid, Josh Palmer and the biggest training-camp position battles

The competition for rotational roles in Buffalo’s crowded defensive tackle room

Dorian Williams versus Kaleb Elarms-Orr at linebacker

Alec Anderson versus Austin Corbett at offensive guard

Buffalo’s search for a punt returner, with Mecole Hardman, Keon Coleman, Ray Davis, Ty Johnson, Khalil Shakir and Skyler Bell among the possibilities

How Joe Brady’s first camp as head coach and Jim Leonhard’s new defense will change the look and feel of practice

Today’s episode is brought to you by the law offices of William Mattar. Hurt in a car, call William Mattar. 444-4444. Call William Mattar today to get the compensation you deserve.

The Talking Buffalo online merch store is now live! You can purchase t shirts, hoodies, zip ups, crewnecks and polos in a couple of different styles and colors. Visit our online page for pricing and options and while there, check out Buf on Weck for tons of cool gear!

Please be sure to subscribe to Talking Buffalo on the audio side, even if you usually watch the show via YouTube. Several of the links to follow Talking Buffalo can be found right here.

Also if you’re not yet subscribed to Talking Buffalo on YouTube, please do so and be sure to hit the LIKE button on the videos, it really helps with the algorithm!

♦♦♦♦♦

Follow Patrick Moran/Talking Buffalo Podcast 

Substack: Patrick Moran’s Substack

Twitter: @PatrickMoranTB

Blue Sky: @PatrickMoranTB.bsky.social

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Facebook: Talking Buffalo Podcast 

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Patrick Moran is joined by Joe From Queens to kick off Buffalo Bills training camp week with a funny, opinionated trip through some of the most memorable—and infamous—camp stories in franchise history.

From Terrell Owens mania and major contract holdouts to overhyped preseason standouts, Patrick and Joe discuss why training-camp performances rarely predict regular-season success. They also look ahead to what could feel different under Buffalo’s new coaching staff.

The transcript only included an opening timestamp, so these chapter times are approximate.

Today’s episode is brought to you by the law offices of William Mattar. Hurt in a car, call William Mattar. 444-4444. Call William Mattar today to get the compensation you deserve.

The Talking Buffalo online merch store is now live! You can purchase t shirts, hoodies, zip ups, crewnecks and polos in a couple of different styles and colors. Visit our online page for pricing and options and while there, check out Buf on Weck for tons of cool gear!

Please be sure to subscribe to Talking Buffalo on the audio side, even if you usually watch the show via YouTube. Several of the links to follow Talking Buffalo can be found right here.

Also if you’re not yet subscribed to Talking Buffalo on YouTube, please do so and be sure to hit the LIKE button on the videos, it really helps with the algorithm!

♦♦♦♦♦

Follow Patrick Moran/Talking Buffalo Podcast 

Substack: Patrick Moran’s Substack

Twitter: @PatrickMoranTB

Blue Sky: @PatrickMoranTB.bsky.social

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Patrick Moran is joined live at Imperial Pizza by two of Buffalo’s most respected sports journalists: Tim Graham of The Athletic and Matt Parrino of Syracuse.com.

The conversation begins with some South Buffalo flavor as the guys review Imperial’s pizza, Murph-style wings and Loganberry BBQ wings. From there, they dive into the rapidly changing sports-media landscape, including ESPN layoffs, the growing influence of personalities such as Pat McAfee and Stephen A. Smith, and why reporters increasingly need to work across writing, podcasting, television, radio and social media.

Tim and Matt also discuss the future of long-form sportswriting, shrinking attention spans and how direct access to athletes through social media has changed traditional storytelling. They share their experiences teaching journalism, mentoring aspiring reporters and learning the profession through demanding entry-level jobs.

The episode eventually turns to the Buffalo Bills’ changing radio coverage, the arrival of Chris Trapasso and former Bills center Mitch Morse, and whether team-affiliated broadcasters can remain candid when the team struggles.

A computer setting caused the audio to peak during this live recording. The conversation remains understandable, but the sound quality is below the usual Talking Buffalo standard. The show also ends abruptly after someone accidentally disconnects the power near the conclusion.

Topics Discussed

Big shout-out and thank you once again to Imperial Pizzafor being a gracious host and for their excellent wings. They now have two locations, 1035 Abbott Road and also 1665 Main Street.

Today’s episode is brought to you by the law offices of William Mattar. Hurt in a car, call William Mattar. 444-4444. Call William Mattar today to get the compensation you deserve.

The Talking Buffalo online merch store is now live! You can purchase t shirts, hoodies, zip ups, crewnecks and polos in a couple of different styles and colors. Visit our online page for pricing and options and while there, check out Buf on Weck for tons of cool gear!

Please be sure to subscribe to Talking Buffalo on the audio side, even if you usually watch the show via YouTube. Several of the links to follow Talking Buffalo can be found right here.

Also if you’re not yet subscribed to Talking Buffalo on YouTube, please do so and be sure to hit the LIKE button on the videos, it really helps with the algorithm!

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Buffalo Bills training camp is almost here, and a fascinating rookie class could have a major say in how the 2026 roster takes shape. On this episode of Talking Buffalo, Patrick Moran goes pick by pick through Buffalo’s draft class and projects which rookies could contribute immediately, which players may need a developmental year and which training-camp competitions are worth following closely.

Patrick begins with second-round edge rusher T.J. Parker. Parker’s explosive 2024 production at Clemson shows real upside, but Patrick remains unsure whether his power-based game adds enough variety to a defensive end room already featuring Greg Rousseau and Bradley Chubb. Parker should have time to develop as part of a rotation that also includes Michael Hoecht and Mike Danna.

Second-round cornerback Davison “IGB” Igbinosun may have a clearer path to early snaps. He could challenge Max Hairston for a starting job opposite Christian Benford or earn a role in Jim Leonhard’s sub-packages. On offense, versatile lineman Jude Bowry could compete for the swing-tackle job while developing at guard, with a possible starting opportunity arriving in 2027.

Patrick is especially intrigued by fourth-round receiver Skyler Bell, whose inside-outside versatility gives him a chance to rise quickly in an unsettled receiver room behind DJ Moore and Khalil Shakir. Linebacker Kaleb Elarms-Orr may also push Dorian Williams for a Week 1 starting job.

The episode also covers Jalon Kilgore, Zane Durant, Toriano Pride Jr., Tommy Doman Jr., Ar’maj Reed-Adams and several undrafted free agents. Before the rookie breakdown, Patrick explains why Josh Allen deserves the NFL’s top quarterback ranking, why a Stefon Diggs reunion is highly unlikely and why Brandin Cooks remains a name to watch.

T.J. Parker should begin as a rotational edge defender. Patrick sees legitimate upside but questions whether Parker gives Buffalo the speed-and-bend pass-rush profile the defense still appears to need.

Davison Igbinosun has a path to immediate playing time. Even if he does not beat Max Hairston for a starting job, “IGB” could earn early work in dime and other sub-packages tailored to Jim Leonhard’s defense.

Skyler Bell may have the highest immediate offensive ceiling in the class. His ability to line up inside or outside, run routes at multiple levels and create after short catches gives him a realistic opportunity to become Buffalo’s third or fourth receiver.

Kaleb Elarms-Orr is a serious linebacker to watch. Patrick currently leans toward Dorian Williams starting in Week 1, but he believes Elarms-Orr could eventually become one of the rookie class’s most impactful players.

Buffalo’s Day 3 picks are mostly developmental—but intriguing. Jude Bowry, Jalon Kilgore and Zane Durant may have limited rookie roles, yet each offers a trait or positional versatility that could pay off in future seasons.

Josh Allen is Patrick’s No. 1 quarterback in football. His production, durability, leadership and postseason numbers place him ahead of Patrick Mahomes, Lamar Jackson and Matthew Stafford in Patrick’s current overall ranking.

Join Talking Buffalo live Thursday at 8:00 p.m. from Imperial Pizza, 1035 Abbott Road in South Buffalo. Patrick will be joined by Tim Graham of The Athletic and Matt Parrino of Syracuse.com to preview Bills training camp and discuss more from around Buffalo sports. Imperial Pizza will offer half-price draft beers, and the show will stream on the Talking Buffalo YouTube channel, Facebook and X/Twitter. The podcast replay will be available Friday.

Today’s episode is brought to you by the law offices of William Mattar. Hurt in a car, call William Mattar. 444-4444. Call William Mattar today to get the compensation you deserve.

The Talking Buffalo online merch store is now live! You can purchase t shirts, hoodies, zip ups, crewnecks and polos in a couple of different styles and colors. Visit our online page for pricing and options and while there, check out Buf on Weck for tons of cool gear!

Please be sure to subscribe to Talking Buffalo on the audio side, even if you usually watch the show via YouTube. Several of the links to follow Talking Buffalo can be found right here.

Also if you’re not yet subscribed to Talking Buffalo on YouTube, please do so and be sure to hit the LIKE button on the videos, it really helps with the algorithm!

♦♦♦♦♦

Follow Patrick Moran/Talking Buffalo Podcast 

Substack: Patrick Moran’s Substack

Twitter: @PatrickMoranTB

Blue Sky: @PatrickMoranTB.bsky.social

Instagram: @PatrickMoranTB

Facebook: Talking Buffalo Podcast 

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Patrick Moran is joined by Matt Warren of SB Nation as Buffalo Bills training camp approaches. They react to the Bills Radio Network’s expanded reach and the pairing of Chris Trapasso and former Bills center Mitch Morse on the new pregame and postgame shows. Patrick and Matt then spotlight six under-the-radar Bills whose performances could shape the roster before closing with an NFL buy-or-sell segment.

The Bills’ expanded radio network gives fans more ways to follow the team and creates healthy competition among local pregame and postgame coverage.

Chris Trapasso’s football knowledge and Mitch Morse’s firsthand NFL experience could make them a strong broadcast pairing.

TJ Sanders enters camp with a chance to earn significant snaps in Jim Leonhard’s defense after an uneven, injury-affected rookie season.

Jordan Hancock, Mike Danna, Austin Corbett, Seth Granger and Geno Stone all face meaningful questions involving role, roster security or special-teams value.

Matt buys major struggles for Kansas City and Miami, but sells Josh Allen finishing No. 1 in the NFL Top 100.

00:00 — Welcome and Buffalo Bills training-camp anticipation

04:30 — Chris Trapasso, Mitch Morse and the expanded Bills Radio Network

24:30 — Under-the-radar camp players: TJ Sanders, Jordan Hancock and Mike Danna

39:30 — Austin Corbett, Seth Granger, Geno Stone and key roster battles

51:30 — NFL buy or sell: Chiefs, Dolphins, Steelers and Josh Allen

Today’s episode is brought to you by the law offices of William Mattar. Hurt in a car, call William Mattar. 444-4444. Call William Mattar today to get the compensation you deserve.

The Talking Buffalo online merch store is now live! You can purchase t shirts, hoodies, zip ups, crewnecks and polos in a couple of different styles and colors. Visit our online page for pricing and options and while there, check out Buf on Weck for tons of cool gear!

Please be sure to subscribe to Talking Buffalo on the audio side, even if you usually watch the show via YouTube. Several of the links to follow Talking Buffalo can be found right here.

Also if you’re not yet subscribed to Talking Buffalo on YouTube, please do so and be sure to hit the LIKE button on the videos, it really helps with the algorithm!

♦♦♦♦♦

Follow Patrick Moran/Talking Buffalo Podcast 

Substack: Patrick Moran’s Substack

Twitter: @PatrickMoranTB

Blue Sky: @PatrickMoranTB.bsky.social

Instagram: @PatrickMoranTB

Facebook: Talking Buffalo Podcast 

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