Buffalo, NY – November 6, 2025
After 13 seasons of grit, heart, and leadership, veteran safety Jordan Poyer has quietly announced what many Bills fans have feared — this will likely be his final ride in the NFL.
Appearing on The Pat McAfee Show Tuesday, the 33-year-old Pro Bowler’s voice carried both peace and nostalgia as he reflected on his journey.
“I’ve said it many times — this is where I want to retire,” Poyer said. “I love this city, I love this organization. I couldn’t think of a better situation to be here with the role I’m in. I’m just embracing it.”
For Poyer, Buffalo isn’t just another stop — it’s home.
After briefly joining the Miami Dolphins last season, he returned to the Bills in August via the practice squad. Injuries in the secondary forced him back into action, and once again, he’s become the heartbeat of the defense — a familiar role for one of the locker room’s most respected voices.
Since rejoining the team, Poyer has started two straight games, filling in for Taylor Rapp, who is out for the year following knee surgery. And while Buffalo’s defense has endured its share of challenges, Poyer’s leadership has anchored the unit, helping the Bills rank among the NFL’s top ten in points allowed.
Poyer admitted last week to WGRZ’s Jonathan Acosta that retirement is near.
“I’m not naïve,” he said. “This is most likely my last one. I’m trying to enjoy every moment — the good, the bad, the indifferent — and just be part of this team for this run, and go out the right way.”
And what a run it has been.
From a 2017 free agent signing to an All-Pro in 2021 and Pro Bowler in 2022, Poyer’s journey in Buffalo mirrors the rise of the team itself — from overlooked underdogs to legitimate Super Bowl contenders. In 13 seasons, he’s amassed 915 tackles, 24 interceptions, and 12 sacks, but his true legacy lies beyond stats: his resilience, his mentorship, and his connection to the city that embraced him.
“You can’t teach what Jordan brings,” said head coach Sean McDermott. “He’s the guy who shows up early, stays late, and demands the best from everyone — including himself.”
As the Bills chase another deep playoff run, the thought of saying goodbye to a player who’s poured his soul into the franchise weighs heavy on fans and teammates alike.
For Poyer, though, there’s no sadness — only gratitude.
He’s ending where he always wanted to: in Buffalo, where heart meets history.
