The Buffalo Bills head into the 2026 NFL season with a fresh new depth chart.
As usual, it is still to be taken with a grain of the salt.
Ahead of facing the Houston Texans in their season opener on Sunday
, the Bills are prepping their game plans and will put forward their best lineup to win. While the depth chart is out there, it is subject to change... but there are still a few telling items worth noting.With that, here are Bills Wire's four takeaways from the team's initial regular season depth chart:
Starting duo
At linebacker, fan favorite and promising fourth-round rookie Kaleb Elarms-Orr is not listed as a starter despite endearing himself to onlookers and teammates throughout the offseason.
Instead, returnee Dorian Williams is listed as the No. 1 next
to Terrel Bernard. Williams and Elarms-Orr were in a position battle during the offseason, however, defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard did say there could be scenarios or packages where Elarms-Orr does get out on the field during the regular season.
Punt returner named
The Bills had issues at the punt returner position during the preseason. All-Pro kick returner Ray Davis muffed one, leaving the position in question.
Despite Greg Dortch signing in Buffalo after roster cuts, it is Dee Alford listed as the starting punt returner... but this one clearly could change to Dortch if he is called up to the 53-man roster ahead of kickoff against the Texans.
Coleman or Palmer?
Across from DJ Moore at the No. 2 wide receiver position, it is Keon Coleman listed over Josh Palmer in the lineup. This is one that could clearly change depending on the game plan.
Coleman was listed above Palmer on depth charts during the preseason as well.
Number change
New year, new number? That is the case for cornerback Maxwell Hairston.
Hairston was already named the starter over Davison Ighinosun by the coaching staff. Hairston will still do so, but will wear No. 1 instead of No. 31 next season.
This article originally appeared on Bills Wire: 4 takeaways from the Bills' unofficial depth chart ahead of Week 1
