ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. — Two familiar faces are back in Buffalo.

Safety Jordan Poyer and defensive tackle Jordan Phillips have rejoined the Buffalo Bills after months of discussions with the team, each saying it was Buffalo or nothing when it came to continuing their careers.

The veterans said they are more than willing to take on mentorship roles, but both emphasized they still have plenty left to give on the field.

For Poyer and Phillips, the decision was straightforward — they wanted to remain part of the Bills organization rather than pursue opportunities elsewhere. Their return, however, comes in a slightly different capacity than before. Both acknowledged that joining in a practice squad role felt a bit surreal.

Poyer was released by the Bills in March of 2024 and spent last season with the Miami Dolphins.

“I’m coming in with my head down, just going to work, help the guys, be an extra set of eyes, extra set of ears, and just be of service,” Poyer said during a Wednesday evening news conference. “But don’t get me wrong, I am also here to play football at a high level, I still feel like I got a lot left to prove to myself, to this game, to the people around me.”

Phillips said “it was Buffalo or nothing” when looking to another season.

“I feel like I have a lot of ball left in me, but I’m OK with being mentor as well. I feel like I can still help this team win, but I’m OK with helping the young guys along while doing that,” he said.

While it’s not uncommon for NFL players to circle back to former teams, the Bills’ newest additions bring not only experience but also leadership to a roster aiming to contend this season. The team and its fan base will now be watching to see how the two veterans blend mentorship with on-field performance.

Bills general manager Brandon Beane on Wednesday afternoon talked about what made a return for both players so appealing.

“They’re selfless. Of course, they’re competitive. If their number’s called, they’re going to go out there and do the best,” Beane said. “But they also understand, it’s do whatever it takes.”