The Buffalo Bills have bolstered their linebacker unit by signing Joe Andreessen, a promising rookie with local ties, to a one-year deal, as announced on May 11. Andreessen, a former standout at the University at Buffalo, impressed during the team’s rookie minicamp and earned himself a contract, offering him the opportunity to vie for a spot on the final roster this summer.
Standing at 6-foot-1 and weighing 232 pounds, Andreessen hails from Depew, NY, providing him the unique chance to kickstart his professional career in his hometown. During his last collegiate season at the University at Buffalo, he showcased his prowess by starting in all 12 games and tallying impressive stats, including 90 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, one sack, two passes defensed, and one forced fumble in 2023.
Before his stint at UB, Andreessen made a mark at Bryant University, setting a single-season school record for tackles with 116 in 2022 and earning All-American honors.Expressing his enthusiasm to join the Bills during the minicamp, Andreessen emphasized his admiration for the team’s well-established culture, which has led to their recent successes.
However, despite his potential, Andreessen faces tough competition for a spot on the Bills’ final 53-man roster, considering his stature as a 6-foot-1 linebacker from a smaller school. He’ll be contending with players like fifth-round pick Edefuan Ulofoshio and free agent acquisition Nicholas Morrow for a depth position and special teams role, as noted by Kyle Silagyi of SI.com’s Bills Central.
While Andreessen’s future with the Bills remains uncertain, another rookie, wide receiver Keon Coleman, selected as the team’s first pick in the draft, is anticipated to play a significant role. With top receiver Stefon Diggs traded to the Houston Texans and Gabe Davis departing in free agency, Coleman is expected to contribute to filling the void.
Coleman has already begun collaborating with Bills offensive coordinator Joe Brady to prepare for his role this season. Praising Brady’s expertise and their burgeoning rapport, Coleman believes they share a strong bond both personally and professionally, which bodes well for their on-field collaboration.
