After a six-year run in Buffalo, Reggie Gilliam will head elsewhere in the AFC East. The veteran fullback has agreed to join the Patriots on a three-year deal worth up to $12MM, per his agents (h/t NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo). The pact includes $6MM guaranteed.
Gilliam earned a reputation as one of the league’s top fullbacks during his long stint in Buffalo. He ultimately got into 94 games across six seasons with the Bills, plus another 14 playoff appearances. Gilliam was often among those credited with the Bills effective rushing attack, especially following James Cook‘s standout campaign in 2025.
That’s about the extent of Gilliam’s offensive contributions. He had an occasional touch in Buffalo, but nothing that would signal he’s in line for a larger role with a new team. Gilliam finished his Bills tenure with 24 touches for 149 yards and two touchdowns.
The Patriots offensive line struggled mightily in the postseason. While a fullback can’t single-handedly turn around the team’s fortunes, he should at the very least help keep Drake Maye upright while also opening holes for Rhamondre Stevenson and TreVeyon Henderson.
It seemed like Josh McDaniels was interested in implementing a fullback in the Patriots 2025 scheme. However, Jack Westover struggled in the role, forcing the team to occasionally turn to DT Khyiris Tonga for some fullback snaps. Now, the team has a legitimate fullback for the foreseeable future.
Adam La Rose contributed to this post.
Gonna be interesting to see how Buffalo’s run game looks next year if they don’t get another fullback.
Weird, I figured westover was the guy. I bet he factors into replacing Hooper in the pass game too
Got Drake his big weapon! Now to spend more on some defense