Shane Buechele news
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
Shane Buechele competes with Kyle Allen for the Bills' backup QB job. The battle's outcome shapes Buffalo's quarterback depth behind Josh Allen.
Background
The Buffalo Bills are in training camp, and the backup quarterback competition between Shane Buechele and Kyle Allen is a key storyline. Both players are vying for the No. 2 spot behind star quarterback Josh Allen, with preseason games providing the main evaluation opportunity. The competition has been described as tight, with neither player clearly separating himself, and some analysts predict the Bills may even look outside the roster for a backup.
How it unfolded
- Jul 29, 2026Bills open training camp at St. John Fisher University; Buechele and Kyle Allen begin competing for the backup QB job.
- Aug 8, 2026Buechele throws during practice at the team's training camp in Orchard Park.
- Aug 10, 2026Both quarterbacks say the competition has strengthened their relationship; offensive coordinator Pete Carmichael praises their contributions.
- Aug 12, 2026Heavy.com predicts the Bills could cut Kyle Allen and keep Buechele as the No. 2.
- Aug 14, 2026Buffalo News reports the backup battle is tight, with both QBs looking to gain an edge.
- Aug 15, 2026SI.com notes the backup QB battle is 'worrisome' and that the Bills need positive developments in the preseason opener against the Panthers.
Who’s saying what
- Analysts
- Some analysts predict the Bills will part ways with Kyle Allen and keep Buechele as the backup.
- Caution
- SI.com warns the backup QB battle is 'worrisome,' suggesting neither player has impressed enough.
- Players
- Both Buechele and Allen say the competition has strengthened their relationship and they are focused on helping each other and Josh Allen improve.
Still unverified
Predictions that the Bills will cut Kyle Allen are speculative and based on analyst opinion, not confirmed by the team.