Buffalo Bills Secure Offensive Tackle Ryan Van Demark with Right-of-First-Refusal Tender
The Buffalo Bills are taking steps to solidify their offensive line, placing a $3.52 million right-of-first-refusal tender on offensive tackle Ryan Van Demark. This move grants the Bills the opportunity to match any contract offer he receives from other NFL teams, signaling their intent to retain the developing lineman.
Van Demark’s Journey and Contract Details
Van Demark, who will turn 28 on March 22nd, is currently a restricted free agent, allowing him to negotiate with other teams. Should he receive an offer sheet, Buffalo will have a five-day window to match it. Given his undrafted free agent status, the Bills wouldn’t receive any draft compensation if they choose not to match a competing offer.
This tender represents a significant increase in Van Demark’s earnings. He earned $1.03 million last season, following previous salaries of $207,000 in 2022, $750,000 in 2023, and $915,000 in 2024. The team clearly values his growth and potential.
A Steadily Growing Role
The Bills have invested the past four seasons in developing the 6-foot-7, 307-pound lineman. Van Demark’s role has steadily expanded, evidenced by his increasing snap counts: 47 in 2023, 199 in 2024, and a substantial 312 snaps last season, representing 28% of Buffalo’s offensive plays. He’s proven to be a reliable backup, stepping in when starters Dion Dawkins or Spencer Brown have been unavailable.
Originally signed to the Bills’ practice squad in 2022 after being waived by the Indianapolis Colts, Van Demark has become a valuable asset as Buffalo’s swing tackle.
Bills’ Offensive Line Strategy
This move comes after the Bills re-signed guard Alec Anderson to a one-year, $3 million contract (with $1.8 million guaranteed), addressing depth on the interior line. With David Edwards departing to the New Orleans Saints in free agency, Anderson will likely compete for the starting left guard position, while Van Demark remains the primary backup tackle.
The Bills’ proactive approach to securing Van Demark demonstrates their commitment to building a strong and versatile offensive line. Fans can follow the latest NFL news and updates at NFL.com.
Van Demark can negotiate with other teams and sign an offer sheet until April 17th, giving the Bills a limited time to secure his future in Buffalo. He has appeared in 43 games over the last three seasons, including all 17 games in 2025.
