Breaking down how the top 3 roster bubble candidates can make the Bills’ 53-man roster

We know that the starters aren't going to play for the Buffalo Bills in their final preseason game of 2024, which wasn't exactly by design. By the sounds of it, head coach Sean McDermott wanted to get the starters some more reps , but with a multitude of injuries impacting the roster, he made the decision to sit the starters down for the final preseason game.

Quite frankly, I'm not thrilled about it. I think there's a lot of chemistry and timing that still needs to get ironed out with this new-look offense, but anyways – I digress.

What this does mean, however, is that players fighting for a final spot on the 53-man roster ahead of the cut down deadline next Tuesday will get plenty of opportunities to put one last game of good tape out there for the coaching staff and front office to analyze.

Here are three players that have a legitimate shot of making the roster, and what needs to happen in order for that dream to become a reality.

Joe Andreessen, Linebacker

Essentially all of Bills Mafia, and all of Buffalo, for that matter, will have their eyes fixed on "Buffalo Joe" Andreessen . He's the prodigal son of Buffalo, playing at nearby Lancaster High School before finishing his collegiate career at University of Buffalo, and eventually earning an invitation to a Rookie Minicamp try out back in May.

All he's done since is impress. The Bills signed him to a contract, and with multiple injuries at the position, he's made the most of it. He was all over the place in the Bills' second preseason game, leading the team with 12 tackles and looking like he belongs. To make the roster, he'll have to pop on film. Go out against the Panthers starters, who are confirmed to be playing, and make plays. Prove that you're too good to leave off the roster.

Tyrell Shavers, Wide Receiver

The wide receiver position is wide open for the last one or two spots on the roster behind rookie Keon Coleman, Khalil Shakir, and veteran Curtis Samuel. Marquez Valdes-Scantling has had a very spotty camp and preseason, and now he's out injured. For Tyrell Shavers to make this roster, he needs to come down with some catches in this final preseason game.

Part of that is up to him, but part of it is going to come down to the quarterback play. I truly hope that the quarterbacks in the game, Ben DiNucci and Anthony Brown Jr., will take some shots and give the roster bubble receivers some opportunities to impress.

Frank Gore Jr., Running Back

The Bills will likely carry three running backs on the 53-man roster, with two of them going to James Cook and rookie Ray Davis . That third spot is a true battle between Frank Gore Jr. , and Ty Johnson.

Gore has looked explosive, confident, and like he has plenty of upside to his game, while Johnson is a veteran that's been around the league and contributed to the Bills last year. Gore and Johnson should both see plenty of looks in this game, and whoever is able to show more may be able to lock up the final running back roster spot for the regular season.

Related: We're Josh Allen days away from Bills season opener: 17 thoughts on team include harsh reality, deep bombs, and more

Follow along all season for all the latest Buffalo Bills news. You can also find me on X @JonHelmkamp .