The Buffalo Bills offensive line has been a rock for years, incredibly healthy and consistent. But for the 2026 NFL season, that consistency faces its first real test in a while. Left guard David Edwards is gone, signing with the New Orleans Saints, which means the Bills finally have a wide-open battle for a starting spot up front. That's where Alec Anderson steps into the spotlight.
From UDFA to O-Line Swiss Army Knife
Anderson, number 70, is a center/guard out of UCLA, snapped up by Buffalo as an undrafted free agent after the 2022 NFL Draft. Now 26, turning 27 in October, he's entering his fourth year in the league, and he's proving his worth. In 2025, despite a preseason injury, this guy played in all 17 regular season games and both of Buffalo's playoff contests. Talk about being available when it matters! He got two huge starts last year, showing off his versatility big time. The first was at right tackle in Week Thirteen, a total 26-7 demolition of the Pittsburgh Steelers. He helped pave the way for Buffalo's running backs to absolutely feast, racking up an insane 249 rushing yards. Later, he started at left guard in the season-closing 35-8 victory over the New York Jets. But here's the kicker: when starting center Connor McGovern had to leave the Divisional Round loss against the Denver Broncos with a head injury, Anderson slid right into center. That's three different spots on the line where he's stepped up in meaningful games. The Bills know what they have with this guy.The Fight for the Front Line
Anderson's currently on a one-year deal worth $2.5 million, which is also his cap number if he makes the 53-man roster. If Buffalo cuts him, they're looking at a $1.8 million dead cap hit. That's a decent chunk of change, telling you they've invested in him. He's one of four players listed at center/guard on the current roster, battling it out with Austin Corbett, Sedrick Van Pran-Granger, and Connor McGovern. Then you've got Lloyd Cushenberry III at center, a whole crew of guards like O’Cyrus Torrence and Nick Broeker, and tackle/guard guys too. The competition is stiff, but Anderson’s ability to play across the line makes him an absolute asset. He's healthy, he's been in offseason workouts, and he's clearly got the coaching staff's attention.What's Next for the Versatile Big Man?
Barring some wild twist, Alec Anderson is locked in for the 53-man roster. The big question, the one everyone's watching, is his actual role. Does his incredible versatility, stepping in at right tackle, left guard, and even center in a playoff game, give him the edge for that open left guard spot? Or does he become the ultimate utility lineman, ready to jump in anywhere, anytime, a crucial safety net for a team that relies so much on its line? Buffalo clearly values him, and he's proven himself capable under pressure. Bills fans will be glued to their screens, eager to see how this O-line competition shakes out and what kind of impact Anderson makes this season. He's earned his shot, and you just know he's going to make it count.This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.