State of the Buffalo Bills Roster: Tight Ends
The Buffalo Bills place a strong emphasis on their tight ends, frequently utilizing heavy formations under offensive coordinator Joe Brady. Last season, two tight ends played over 40% of offensive snaps, and a sixth offensive lineman appeared in over 20% of plays. While the coaching staff relied on the position, statistical production didn’t reflect that confidence. No tight end surpassed 45 receptions, 450 yards, or two touchdowns, with the group collectively recording 72 catches.
Zach Davidson
- Contract: Two-year reserve/future deal ($963,500 cap hit in 2025)
- Age: 26 (27 in July 2025)
- Playing Time: Two games, 26 special teams snaps, 42 offensive snaps
- Stats: 2 targets, 1 reception, 5 yards
Davidson, an athletic but aging prospect, is unlikely to make the final roster. However, he understands the system and could remain on the practice squad.
Dalton Kincaid
- Contract: Third year of a four-year rookie deal ($3.66 million cap hit in 2025)
- Age: 25 (26 in October 2025)
- Playing Time: 13 games (9 starts), 471 offensive snaps
- Stats: 75 targets, 44 receptions, 448 yards, 2 TDs, 1 fumble
Kincaid’s second season was disappointing compared to his record-setting rookie year. A knee injury sidelined him for four games, but even before that, his production was lower than expected. Head coach Sean McDermott and general manager Brandon Beane have emphasized his need to add strength, raising concerns about his long-term fit in Brady’s offensive scheme. The upcoming season is crucial for Kincaid to prove himself as a reliable passing option.
Dawson Knox
- Contract: Second year of a three-year extension ($14.57 million cap hit in 2025)
- Age: 28 (29 in November 2025)
- Playing Time: 16 games (13 starts), 618 offensive snaps
- Stats: 33 targets, 22 receptions, 311 yards, 1 TD
Knox has developed into a dependable blocker and receiver over his career. Due to Kincaid’s injury, he saw more playing time than expected. While his contract is expensive given Kincaid’s presence, the Bills are unlikely to move on, as $4.5 million of his 2025 salary is guaranteed.
Quintin Morris
- Contract: Restricted free agent
- Age: 26 (27 in January 2026)
- Playing Time: 16 games (3 starts), 324 special teams snaps, 214 offensive snaps
- Stats: 8 targets, 5 receptions, 36 yards, 1 TD, 4 tackles
Morris is a solid third-string tight end, but the Bills are unlikely to extend him a $3.18 million tender offer. Instead, they may attempt to re-sign him on a cheaper contract.
Outlook for 2025
The Bills need better production from their tight ends, particularly Kincaid. However, their financial and draft commitments limit flexibility at the position.
They have two main options:
- Search for under-the-radar talent in free agency, the draft, or the undrafted market.
- Rely on Kincaid’s development while continuing to utilize Knox’s experience.
A key issue is Kincaid’s chemistry with quarterback Josh Allen. Allen’s off-target throw percentage when targeting Kincaid was 20%, nearly double his overall rate of 10.8%. Whether this was due to Kincaid’s route-running or Allen’s accuracy, the duo must improve their connection.
The Bills will likely stick with their current group in 2025, but Kincaid must step up as a reliable weapon in the passing game.
