Buffalo, NY . May 2026
The Buffalo Bills officially opened organized team activities this week, but early offseason momentum has already sparked growing frustration inside the organization.
Although OTAs remain officially voluntary across the NFL, multiple high-profile absences immediately caught the attention of Buffalo’s new head coach this week.
According to reports circulating around league circles Tuesday afternoon, head coach Joe Brady was not pleased after three veteran stars failed to attend OTAs without properly informing the organization beforehand.
The three absent players included:
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- James Cook
- Dion Dawkins
- Ed Oliver
League insiders emphasized that Brady understands players are not required to attend voluntary offseason activities under league rules.
However, sources suggest the frustration centered more around communication and accountability rather than the absences themselves.
Internally, Buffalo’s coaching staff is aggressively attempting to establish a stronger culture entering Brady’s first season leading the franchise.
After years of playoff disappointment despite consistent regular-season success, the Bills want greater discipline, professionalism, and offseason commitment throughout the locker room.
James Cook’s absence generated especially heavy discussion because of his critical offensive role supporting quarterback Josh Allen inside Buffalo’s offense.
Cook has emerged as one of the team’s most explosive offensive weapons over recent seasons because of his rushing ability and receiving versatility.
Meanwhile, Dawkins and Oliver remain foundational veteran leaders on both sides of the football entering another crucial season for the organization.
Several league observers believe Brady may simply be attempting to send an early message regarding standards and expectations throughout the roster moving forward.
The Bills already underwent major organizational changes this offseason after Brady officially replaced former head coach Sean McDermott earlier this year.
Buffalo also aggressively reshaped the offense after adding star wide receiver DJ Moore to help Josh Allen finally push deeper into the AFC playoffs.
Despite the growing attention surrounding the OTA absences, no indication currently suggests major tension between the players and organization beyond Brady’s internal disappointment.