Bills' Joe Brady explains releasing, immediately re-signing defender
Here's what the Bills' idea was behind releasing and immediately bringing back Phidarian Mathis.
The Buffalo Bills experienced an unusual situation this week involving their defensive lineman Phidarian Mathis. Initially signed by the team as a second-round pick in 2022, Mathis began his tenure with the Buffalo squad's practice roster in September 2025. In the spring of that year, he re-established his contract with the team on a one-year deal.
However, during the team's training camp, Mathis faced a three-game suspension from the NFL for violating the league's Substance of Abuse Policy. The Bills currently stand at (3-0), preparing for their Week 4 contest against the New England Patriots (1-2). Mathis is eligible to return to Buffalo's 53-man roster, but the team chose to release him due to the emergence of other defensive tackles like DeWayne Carter, who have shown promising performances early in the season.
Yet, Mathis was quickly re-signed to the practice squad. Coach Joe Brady, known for his guarded approach to roster decisions and injury designations, hinted that there might be a reason behind their actions. "There's a reason we signed him in the offseason," Brady stated. "When he's ready to rock... I'll be excited to see him... if he has an opportunity to play."
It appears that Mathis will return to the team at some point this season, though the exact timing remains uncertain. Brady's complete remarks can be viewed in the accompanying clip.
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