The Buffalo Bills have officially brought back punter Mitch Wishnowsky on a one-year contract as the NFL’s legal tampering period gains momentum. The signing ensures Wishnowsky will likely continue as the team’s primary punter for a second consecutive year, strengthening the special teams unit heading into the new season.
Wishnowsky’s Role and Past Contributions with the Bills
Mitch Wishnowsky stepped into the starting punter position early in the 2025 season after the Bills faced challenges with their previous punters, Brad Robbins and Cameron Johnston, due to injury and inconsistent performances. Robbins participated in only a single game before Johnston took over, appearing in three games until a leg injury put him on Injured Reserve, followed by his subsequent release.
Wishnowsky joined the team before Week 5 and made a significant impact, finishing the season ranked 14th in the NFL for net punting average at 41.9 yards. His consistent play helped solidify the punting role, an important aspect for the Bills’ field position strategy. The 34-year-old veteran brings seven years of NFL experience, six of which were with the San Francisco 49ers prior to joining Buffalo.
Decision Pending on Kicker Position Amid Recovery Updates
While the Bills have locked in their punter for the next season, the team faces a key decision regarding their kicker role. Tyler Bass, the current kicker, is returning from an injury that sidelined him for most of the previous year. Team officials, including general manager Brandon Beane, have indicated a preference to continue with Bass, though releasing him remains an option that could save the team salary cap space as free agency begins.
During his end-of-season media session, Bass provided an update on his rehabilitation progress: “Going well, yeah, going well,” he said.
“No timeline, but we have a long offseason to get back, and we’re excited. Making a lot of progress.”
He added,
“We’re working out hard, running, jumping, kicking, really just everything I’ve been doing, just adding a few things to it.”
Last season, veteran Matt Prater, age 41, stepped in during Bass’s absence, and he may remain a fallback option. The Bills could also turn to the draft to find a new kicker, as they did when Bass was originally selected.
Additional Moves Strengthening the Roster
Besides re-signing Wishnowsky, the Bills have made further moves to bolster their lineup. They reached an agreement with quarterback Kyle Allen to succeed Mitch Trubisky as the team’s backup signal-caller. In addition, the Bills are preparing to add cornerback Dee Alford to their defensive corps, demonstrating their focus on maintaining depth and versatility across the roster as the offseason progresses.
Looking Ahead: Stability and Roster Decisions as Free Agency Approaches
The re-signing of Mitch Wishnowsky provides the Bills with continuity at the punter position, allowing the coaching staff to focus on other roster uncertainties, notably the kicker role. Tyler Bass’s recovery and eventual return remain pivotal for Buffalo’s special teams. With free agency officially opening soon, the Bills’ management will need to finalize decisions that balance performance, cap considerations, and depth, setting the stage for their preparations for the 2026 NFL season.
Punter news: The Bills are re-signing Mitch Wishnowsky to a one-year deal, per sources.
— Dianna Russini (@DMRussini) March 9, 2026
