The Buffalo Bills are shaking things up on their defense! After the initial roster cutdowns, they’ve brought in some fresh talent for the practice squad. Get the inside scoop on Jalen Kimber and Andre Jones Jr. and how these additions could impact the team’s season. Are these the hidden gems Buffalo needs?
The Buffalo Bills have been exceptionally active following the intense period of NFL roster moves and cutdown madness, strategically bolstering their defense with key additions to the practice squad. This crucial period, which saw the organization trim its roster from 90 to 53 players and subsequently assemble a 17-man practice squad, underscores the team’s commitment to finding and developing talent that can contribute both immediately and in the long term.
Among the notable reinforcements are Jalen Kimber and Andre Jones Jr., two promising players who have officially joined the Bills’ practice squad. Kimber, an undrafted free agent, cleared waivers before being welcomed into the Buffalo fold. His journey through college football, which included stints at Georgia, Florida, and culminating at Penn State Nittany Lions, highlights a diverse collegiate experience and a reputation as a diligent student of the game, a quality highly valued by Head Coach Sean McDermott.
During his collegiate career, Kimber demonstrated consistent performance across 44 games, making 26 starts. His statistical contributions included 75 tackles, one interception, one fumble recovery, and nine pass breakups. Beyond the field, his academic achievements, earning multiple SEC Fall Academic Honor Roll mentions and All-Big Ten honorable mention honors, speak volumes about his character and dedication to personal and professional growth.
Kimber’s preseason performance with the Bills also offered encouraging signs, particularly in coverage. While his impact was not overtly flashy, his PFF grades showed a steady improvement, moving from 67.8 to 87.1. Crucially, he actively participated in special teams, a significant area of emphasis for the Bills’ coaching staff and front office, demonstrating versatility across various special teams units.
Conversely, Andre Jones Jr. entered the NFL as a seventh-round selection by the Washington Commanders in 2023. After spending his rookie campaign on the 53-man roster, he was released during the 2025 cutdown day, making him an attractive target for the Bills’ practice squad. His prior experience on an active roster provides a different dynamic and a level of professional seasoning that complements Kimber’s potential.
Jones Jr.’s value extends significantly to special teams, an area where he accumulated 250 snaps during his 2023 season with the Commanders. This proficiency is a considerable bonus for Buffalo, indicating his readiness to contribute in multiple facets of the game beyond just the defensive line. His 2024 preseason, although limited in total snaps, showcased his ability to generate pressure with six total pressures, including one sack, one hit, and four hurries, along with a batted pass.
These recent NFL roster moves by the Buffalo Bills underscore a fundamental truth about the league: the initial 53-man roster is merely a starting point. The dynamic nature of the season ensures constant fluctuation, with the practice squad serving as a vital pipeline for talent. Both Jalen Kimber and Andre Jones Jr. represent strategic acquisitions, providing the Bills with additional defense depth and crucial special teams capabilities, hoping to unlock their full potential in Western New York as the season progresses.
