Rookie Preseason Performance Review
With a large rookie class entering camp following the 2027 Draft, Buffalo’s preseason provided an early look at which newcomers are ready to contribute immediately—and which are still developing. Several rookies stood out on both sides of the ball, reinforcing the Bills’ draft-night vision.
Offensive Rookies
Rocco Becht (QB – UDFA, Alabama)
Becht was the most productive rookie passer of the preseason and made a strong case for a roster spot.
Preseason Stats:
- 21/37 (56.8%)
- 446 passing yards
- 5 TDs, 2 INTs
- 12.1 yards per attempt
- Long: 72 yards
Becht showed confidence pushing the ball downfield and wasn’t afraid to attack tight windows. While the completion percentage reflects some inconsistency, his explosiveness and touchdown production stood out. He clearly separated himself from the other rookie quarterbacks.
Jeremiah Smith (WR – Round 1, Ohio State)
Buffalo’s top draft pick wasted no time showing why he was selected first overall.
Preseason Stats:
- 8 receptions
- 104 yards
- 1 touchdown
- 13.0 yards per catch
Smith immediately looked like a pro-ready receiver, creating separation and contributing in meaningful situations. While not heavily featured, his efficiency and polish were evident, reinforcing expectations of an immediate role in the regular season offense.
Dawson Pendergrass (HB – UDFA, Arizona State)
Pendergrass quietly put together a strong preseason showing in a crowded backfield.
Preseason Stats:
- 21 carries
- 104 rushing yards
- 5.0 yards per carry
- Long run: 31 yards
- 0 fumbles
He ran decisively, showed solid vision, and protected the football—important traits for a depth running back. Pendergrass positioned himself well for a rotational or depth role.
Gunner Stockton (QB – UDFA, Georgia)
Stockton saw limited action.
Preseason Stats:
- 1 carry, 4 yards
With minimal opportunities, Stockton remains more of a developmental option moving forward.
Defensive Rookies
AJ Harris (CB – Round 2, Penn State)
Harris made his presence felt early in the secondary.
Preseason Stats:
- 9 tackles
While he didn’t record turnovers, Harris showed solid tackling and awareness, traits Buffalo badly needed after 2026. He looks capable of contributing immediately in sub-packages or rotational roles.
Jordan Hall (MIKE – Round 6, Michigan State)
Hall impressed with his instincts and versatility.
Preseason Stats:
- 7 tackles
- 0.5 sacks
- 1 interception
Hall’s ability to impact the game in multiple ways stood out, making him one of the more impressive rookie defenders in camp.
Tony Rojas (WILL – Round 3, Penn State)
Rojas saw limited but valuable action.
Preseason Stats:
- 1 tackle
While the numbers were modest, Rojas’ speed and role experimentation suggest the team is easing him into the defense rather than rushing his development.
TJ Dottery (MIKE – Round 7, Ole Miss)
Dottery made the most of limited snaps.
Preseason Stats:
- 1 interception
The pick highlights his instincts and ability to be in the right place at the right time—valuable traits for a depth linebacker and special teams contributor.
Overall Rookie Takeaways
- Immediate contributors: Jeremiah Smith, AJ Harris, Jordan Hall
- Surprise performers: Rocco Becht, Dawson Pendergrass
- Developmental pieces: Tony Rojas, TJ Dottery, Gunner Stockton
Buffalo’s rookie class showed encouraging early returns, particularly at wide receiver, linebacker, and quarterback depth. While preseason production doesn’t guarantee regular-season success, several newcomers clearly put themselves on the map heading into Week 1.
