Bills bring back former first-round cornerback on $6.8 million contract

BILLS BRING BACK FORMER FIRST-ROUND CORNERBACK ON $6.8 MILLION DEAL

In a move that’s turning heads around the league and energizing fans in Buffalo, the Bills are bringing back a familiar face to bolster their secondary. The team has signed former first-round pick Tre’Davious White to a one-year, $6.8 million contract, marking a surprising reunion with one of the most dynamic defensive backs in franchise history.

White, who was originally drafted by the Bills in the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft out of LSU, returns to Buffalo after a brief stint in free agency following his release in March. At the time, the Bills were undergoing a cap-tightening phase, and White’s hefty salary combined with his recent injury history made him a cap casualty. But after testing the waters and seeing moderate interest across the league, the 29-year-old cornerback has decided to return home.

A HOMECOMING WITH HIGH STAKES

For White, this isn’t just a return — it’s a second chance. Injuries have limited his impact over the last few seasons. After a standout start to his career, including a First-Team All-Pro selection in 2019 and two Pro Bowl nods, White tore his ACL late in the 2021 season. Then in 2023, just as he was beginning to look like his old self again, he suffered a devastating Achilles injury in Week 4, cutting another season short.

Despite those setbacks, the Bills clearly believe White has more to offer. The one-year, incentive-laden deal shows confidence in his ability to rebound while also giving the team flexibility should he return to form. The base salary of $6.8 million includes a signing bonus, performance-based incentives, and active roster bonuses — giving White the opportunity to earn every cent if he can stay on the field.

BILLS LOOKING TO BOUNCE BACK ON DEFENSE

The Bills’ defense struggled with consistency last season, particularly in the secondary after White’s injury. Young corners like Christian Benford and Kaiir Elam were pressed into expanded roles, while veteran Jordan Poyer also missed time. With the AFC East looking more competitive than ever — and Josh Allen still in his prime — Buffalo knows it must shore up its defense if it wants to make another serious Super Bowl push.

Head coach Sean McDermott, who has always placed a premium on smart, physical cornerback play, spoke glowingly of White’s return.

“Tre has always been the kind of player who sets the tone — not just with his ability, but with his preparation, his leadership, and his toughness,” McDermott said during a press conference. “We’re thrilled to have him back, and we’re going to support him fully as he works his way back onto the field.”

WHAT THIS MEANS FOR THE SECONDARY

With White back in the fold, the Bills secondary suddenly looks far more stable heading into 2025. If healthy, he’s expected to reclaim his role as CB1, with Benford likely starting on the opposite side and Taron Johnson manning the slot. The presence of White also adds depth and mentorship for Elam, who has shown flashes but struggled with consistency since being drafted in the first round in 2022.

The move also opens up more flexibility for defensive coordinator Bobby Babich, who was promoted to the role this offseason. White’s ability to play man or zone, read the quarterback, and tackle in space gives the defense a versatile piece to work with. That’s particularly crucial in a division that now features Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle in Miami, Garrett Wilson in New York, and a retooled Patriots offense under new leadership.

A FAN FAVORITE RETURNS

There’s no overstating what White means to Buffalo off the field as well. From his viral “Tre’Davious White Goalie Academy” segment to his energetic, passionate playstyle, he has long been a fan favorite. His return has sparked excitement across Bills Mafia, who never quite got the proper send-off they expected after his release.

Social media lit up following the announcement, with fans posting highlights, welcome-back messages, and videos of White’s greatest moments. Several teammates, including Josh Allen and Von Miller, shared their excitement as well.

“Let’s run it back, bro. We got unfinished business,” Allen posted on Instagram alongside a picture of him and White celebrating after a turnover.

THE ROAD AHEAD

Of course, questions remain. Can White stay healthy after suffering two major lower-body injuries in three seasons? Will he still possess the same burst, agility, and awareness that made him one of the league’s top corners? The Bills are betting $6.8 million that he can — and that if he does, he’ll help them return to the top of the AFC.

For White, the motivation is clear. He’s not just looking to prove the doubters wrong. He’s looking to write a new chapter in the city that drafted him, developed him, and embraced him.

Buffalo’s front office has made a statement: they’re not just planning for the future — they’re betting on the heart and soul of their defense to help them win now.

And if Tre’Davious White can channel even a shadow of his former self, this reunion might be one of the most impactful signings of the NFL offseason.