Bills Release Key Veterans Johnson and Samuel, Pave Way for New Defensive Scheme

Buffalo Bills are undergoing significant roster changes as they prepare for the 2026 season, releasing veteran cornerback Taron Johnson and wide receiver Curtis Samuel, according to reports from ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler and Adam Schefter . These moves are designed to create cap space and facilitate a shift in defensive philosophy under new coordinator Jim Leonhard.

Cap Implications and Roster Moves

The Bills will save just over $7.9 million in cap space with these releases, approximately $6 million from Samuel and $1.9 million from Johnson . The team opted not to designate Johnson as a post-June 1 release, foregoing an additional $7 million in savings.

These decisions follow the Bills’ acquisition of wide receiver DJ Moore from the Carolina Panthers on Thursday, signaling a reshaping of the team’s receiving corps.

Defensive Shift to 3-4 Scheme

The release of Taron Johnson, a key player in the Bills’ defense for the past eight seasons, is a direct result of the team’s transition from a 4-3 base defense to a 3-4 scheme under Jim Leonhard . Johnson, drafted in the fourth round in 2018, developed into the starting nickel cornerback under former coach Sean McDermott.

Since 2020, the Bills have utilized a nickel defense more often than any other team in the NFL (83.4%), largely due to Johnson’s performance . He is remembered for his 101-yard pick-six against the Baltimore Ravens in the 2020 postseason.

Leonhard had previously discussed a potential position change with Johnson, aiming to leverage his skills within the new defensive framework .

Samuel’s Short Tenure in Buffalo

Curtis Samuel’s time with the Bills (2024-2025) was hampered by injuries and limited production. He appeared in 20 regular-season games, recording 38 receptions for 334 yards and two touchdowns, along with 14 rushing yards on five carries .

Bills Secure Special Teams Core

In a separate move, the Bills have re-signed special teams player and safety Sam Franklin Jr. To a three-year deal worth up to $7.5 million, including $5 million over the first two years . Franklin joined the Bills in August, initially on the practice squad and played in all 17 regular-season games, contributing significantly on special teams (75.8% of snaps).