“Buffalo Joe” Andreessen is part of the Bills’ 53-man roster, according to a report

Linebacker Joe Andreessen has reportedly been named to the Buffalo Bills’ initial 53-man roster for the 2024 NFL season, according to a report from Jon Scott. The man now known to the Bills Mafia as “Buffalo Joe” has made an unlikely rise up the Bills’ roster after being invited to audition for the team during Organized Team Activities.

Andreessen certainly caught the attention of One Bills Drive during the University at Buffalo’s pro day at Highmark Stadium earlier this spring. It’s possible Andreessen had been on their radar since last season when he played at UB.

Andreessen’s story is one of overcoming adversity as a football player rooted in the Northeast. There’s endless stiff competition from NFL-caliber players living in more lauded football locations with a legacy of developing professional talent.

Life seemed to change instantly for Joe Andreessen when he made his first NFL start during a preseason Week 2 game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Playing in place of linebacker Terrel Bernard, Andreessen donned the green dot as Buffalo’s MIKE ‘backer. He made play after play, making decisive and skilled tackles against the Steelers starters and more. While Andreessen isn’t finished at this point, his early production showed undeniable talent and instincts.

Many predicted Andreessen would simply end up on the Bills’ practice squad, but it’s likely Buffalo’s leadership didn’t want to lose him to another NFL team. Andreessen will likely begin the season as Bernard’s backup, with the potential to replace starting WILL linebacker Dorian Williams if needed.

Bills linebacker Matt Milano remains out indefinitely after injuring his biceps late in training camp. It’s Milano’s second injury in less than a calendar year, which now hampers his bid to return to the field after injuries to his lower leg and knee suffered during Week 5 of the 2023 NFL season.