Ex SMU QB Gets Bills Shot

Former SMU quarterback Shane Buechele has another real NFL opportunity, and this one comes in one of the league’s loudest pressure cookers.

The Buffalo Bills are back on the field for OTAs this week before mandatory minicamp runs June 9-11, and while Josh Allen remains the unquestioned face of the franchise, the backup quarterback battle is suddenly worth watching.

READ MORE: SMU Launches Mustang Coin With Krida Deal

That’s where Buechele enters the picture.

The former SMU Mustangs standout is competing with Kyle Allen for the No. 2 quarterback job after Mitch Trubisky left Buffalo and signed with the Tennessee Titans.

It’s not the flashiest storyline in Bills camp, but it matters. Buffalo is built around Super Bowl expectations, and the quarterback room behind Allen can’t be treated like an afterthought.

Buechele already knows what it feels like to fight for every rep.

After his college career included a strong run at SMU, he has bounced between NFL opportunities, including time with the Kansas City Chiefs and Buffalo.

During the 2025 season, he appeared in one game with Kansas City, completing 7 of 14 passes for 88 yards.

That’s not enough of a sample size to crown him anything, but it is enough to keep him in the conversation.

Kyle Allen has the edge in experience, and that matters.

He’s been around longer, started more NFL games and gives Buffalo a more familiar veteran safety net.

But offseason depth charts can change fast once training camp and preseason snaps arrive.

For SMU fans, this is another reason to keep an eye on Buffalo.

Buechele helped elevate the Mustangs during his college days, and now he’s trying to prove he can be more than a practice-squad or emergency option at the next level.

READ MORE: Major League Outfielder Retires, Could Play College Football at SMU

The path isn’t easy. It probably shouldn’t be.

But if Buechele flashes in camp, protects the football and shows command of the offense, the Bills’ backup quarterback race could get a lot more interesting before September.

Join Our Roundtable Community For Free! 

Share your takes, connect with our Roundtable writers, and talk sports with fellow fans. Download the free Roundtable App today and stay closer to the conversation.