Orchard Park, N.Y. (WGR Sports Radio 550/WBEN) - The dream has become a reality for former Lancaster High School and University at Buffalo linebacker Joe Andreessen.
As reported by multiple people on Tuesday and later confirmed by the team, Andreessen has made the Buffalo Bills' initial 53-man roster.
Andreessen started his college football career at Bryant University in Rhode Island before transferring to the University at Buffalo for his final year of eligibility. He went undrafted in the 2024 NFL Draft, and did not sign an undrafted free agent contract.
He was invited to both the Kansas City Chiefs and Bills rookie minicamps in May, but his hometown team ultimately signed him to a contract.
Andreessen got the start at middle linebacker for the team in their preseason game at the Pittsburgh Steelers. He showed terrific instincts and playmaking ability, finishing with a game-high 12 tackles, including two for loss.
While Andreessen has made the initial cut, teams will have a chance to claim players released who have less than four years service until Wednesday at 12 p.m. ET. Any player with more than four years can be signed to a contract immediately.
If that happens, any player who made the initial 53-man roster could be let go to make room for the new player.