The Buffalo Bills have dominated the AFC East for five consecutive seasons, with their 2024 title secured decisively as the only team in the division to post a winning record. However, according to a recent analysis by Bleacher Report, the Bills’ biggest threat in the division, the Miami Dolphins, has been labeled the “biggest offseason loser” in the AFC East for 2025, potentially clearing the path for Buffalo to claim a sixth straight division crown.
Buffalo Bills’ Continued Dominance
Under the leadership of head coach Sean McDermott and general manager Brandon Beane, the Buffalo Bills have built a formidable roster, spearheaded by quarterback Josh Allen, the reigning NFL MVP. Despite a heartbreaking 32-29 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC Championship, the Bills showcased their offensive prowess, leading the league in scoring throughout the regular season and playoffs.
In the 2025 offseason, the Bills focused on retaining their core, securing extensions for key players like linebacker Matt Milano, edge rusher Greg Rousseau, linebacker Terrel Bernard, wide receiver Khalil Shakir, and cornerback Christian Benford. They also bolstered their roster with notable additions, including edge rusher Joey Bosa, wide receiver Josh Palmer, and cornerback Tre’Davious White, strengthening both sides of the ball.
In the NFL Draft, the Bills prioritized their defense, selecting six defensive players, including three linemen, with their first-round pick being Kentucky cornerback Maxwell Hairston. This move was praised for addressing weaknesses in a defense that ranked 17th in yards allowed during the 2024 season.
Miami Dolphins: The Biggest Loser
The Miami Dolphins, long considered the Bills’ primary challenger in the AFC East, were expected to close the gap with the division leaders. However, Bleacher Report’s Moe Moton argues that the Dolphins fell short of this goal in the 2025 offseason, earning them the title of the division’s biggest loser. While Miami focused on fortifying their defensive and offensive lines in the draft, they failed to make significant moves to enhance their overall competitiveness, particularly at key skill positions needed to counter Buffalo’s high-powered offense.
In contrast, other division rivals, such as the New York Jets and New England Patriots, made more notable strides despite being in rebuilding phases. Through strategic draft picks and coaching changes, these teams positioned themselves as potential dark horses, arguably outpacing Miami’s offseason progress.
The Bills’ Path Forward
Despite criticism for not selecting a wide receiver until the seventh round of the 2025 NFL Draft, the Bills acted swiftly post-draft, signing former Cleveland Browns wide receiver Elijah Moore to a one-year, $5 million deal. This move aims to support Josh Allen and add depth to a receiver corps that already includes Khalil Shakir, Keon Coleman, and Curtis Samuel.
Brandon Beane’s response to draft critiques also made headlines. In a local radio interview, he passionately defended the team’s offensive output, emphasizing that the Bills led the league in scoring the previous season. “We put up 30 points consistently for eight straight games… No team, not even the Super Bowl champs, scored more points than the Buffalo Bills,” Beane stated.
However, the Bills cannot afford complacency. While the Dolphins may have regressed, the Jets and Patriots are showing signs of improvement, particularly with changes at quarterback and coaching staff. Moreover, Buffalo’s offense, though potent, has been criticized for lacking a true No. 1 receiver, which could impact their performance in high-stakes games.
Conclusion
The Miami Dolphins’ offseason shortcomings in 2025 have inadvertently strengthened the Buffalo Bills’ grip on the AFC East. With a reinforced roster, an improved defense, and Josh Allen’s leadership, the Bills are well-positioned to pursue a sixth consecutive division title and a potential Super Bowl LX appearance. However, to achieve these goals, they must remain vigilant and address lingering weaknesses, particularly at wide receiver, to ensure they stay ahead of their rising division rivals.