Former first-round pick Shaq Lawson has signed with the Bills’ practice squad, marking his third stint with the franchise.
Shaq Lawson, the 2016 first-round pick (19th overall) by the Buffalo Bills, has re-signed with the team, this time to the practice squad.
He originally spent his first four seasons (2016-19) with Buffalo, then returned for the 2022 and 2023 campaigns.
His career numbers include 26.0 sacks, 207 tackles, 77 quarterback hits, and seven forced fumbles in 110 career games.
The 31-year-old has been out of the league since being released by the Carolina Panthers in October 2024 after appearing in just one game that season.
Back to Buffalo: The #Bills are signing DE Shaq Lawson to the practice squad after working him out yesterday, sources say. A third stint for Lawson with the organization that drafted him in the first round in 2016. pic.twitter.com/3fmQQXJz7v
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) November 25, 2025
Why Buffalo made the move
Buffalo has been hit with significant injuries and instability along the edge-rush front. With veteran edge defenders sidelined or inconsistent, the Bills turned to a known commodity in Lawson.
Practice squad transactions ⬇️
– Signed DE Shaq Lawson to the practice squad.
– Released DE Andre Jones Jr. from the practice squad. pic.twitter.com/skIWRow5Cj
— Buffalo Bills PR (@BuffaloBillsPR) November 25, 2025
By adding Lawson to the practice squad, the team boosts its depth chart and gives itself an option for a mid-season promotion if needed. The move also signals that Buffalo trusts Lawson’s familiarity with the system and culture.
From Lawson’s perspective, it represents a chance to revive his career, leverage familiarity with the franchise, and perhaps earn a spot back on the active roster.
What to monitor going forward
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Activation timeline: Lawson is on the practice squad, not the 53-man roster. The question is whether and when Buffalo will promote him to the active roster. Performance in practice and health of the starters will dictate that.
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Fit and performance: Lawson’s recent production has been limited; to make an impact, he’ll need to demonstrate he still has pass-rush explosiveness, edge flexibility, and stamina.
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Impact on younger players: With Lawson back, younger edge players may lose work or see fewer reps. How Buffalo balances veteran return with development path will be important.
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Roster implications: The team released another edge player from the practice squad (Andre Jones Jr.) to make room for Lawson. This could indicate a shift in roster priorities.
The Bills brought back one of their former first-rounders in Shaq Lawson, banking on a mix of experience and familiarity to shore up a vulnerable spot. Whether it pays off will depend on his ability to return to form and the team’s need for edge help in the playoff push.
