ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. — Cornerback Tre’Davious White had strongly desired to remain with the Buffalo Bills. After the Baltimore Ravens were eliminated in the divisional playoff round — notably against Buffalo — White eagerly began working on a way to return to the team he calls home.
Expressing his determination, White mentioned that he told his agent not to bother contacting him unless it was regarding Buffalo. A day after joining the Bills’ offseason training and signing a one-year, $6.8 million contract, the 30-year-old felt right back at home, surrounded by familiar faces and new ones alike.
Drafted in 2017 as a first-round pick from LSU, White started his NFL journey in Buffalo, forming strong connections and even indulging his interest in hockey, participating in humorous skits for the NHL’s Buffalo Sabres. He blossomed with the team, earning All-Pro honors in 2019, and was instrumental in revamping the Bills’ fortunes.
His time with the Bills wasn’t without challenges. White endured serious injuries, including a torn right Achilles tendon in 2023, that resulted in his release for salary cap reasons in early 2024. While he bore no resentment towards the Bills, the decision was tough on him due to factors beyond his control.
“I longed to remain a Buffalo Bill and stay associated with a single team,” White revealed, adding a deeper appreciation for the unique nature of the franchise.
After his release, White found temporary homes with the Los Angeles Rams and later the Ravens, gaining a fresh perspective from his absence. Now he returns, aiming to recapture previous success and fulfill the quest of winning a Super Bowl. He’s keen to reclaim his starting spot, vacated following the departure of Rasul Douglas.
White is in great shape, both mentally and physically, after overcoming the challenges of rehabbing his torn knee ligament in 2021. His therapist advised him to let go of past grievances, and now White is focused on excelling to his potential.
Bills’ General Manager Brandon Beane noted White’s progress post-injury, emphasizing his familiarity with Buffalo’s defensive setup as a considerable asset. Beane is hopeful for White’s future contributions.
White had previously cemented his status as a premier cornerback in the league with notable achievements as a rookie and in the following years. Nonetheless, last season’s limited role on the field was a stark contrast. Despite reduced playtime, White supported the Bills from a distance, maintaining connections with teammates like Taron Johnson.
With a chuckle, White joked with Johnson about deserving an honorary ring if the Bills secured a Super Bowl victory without him. Unfortunately, Buffalo fell short, bowing out to Kansas City, which reversed their fortunes for the fourth time in five years.
Now, back where he began, White relishes the chance to actively contribute again and has embraced the present, cherishing the familiar setting. “Returning to where my career started feels right,” White expressed. “This is how it was meant to be for me.”