Buffalo Bills sign UFL standout running back Ian Wheeler

The Buffalo Bills signed running back Ian Wheeler on Thursday, bringing the 24-year-old back into the NFL after a productive season in the United Football League. The club announced the move as it continues offseason roster building ahead of upcoming team activities. Wheeler most recently played for the Louisville Kings, winning the league title and earning United Bowl Most Valuable Player honors.

Wheeler was one of the UFL’s most effective rushers in 2026. He finished with 541 rushing yards on 83 carries across 11 games, production that helped Louisville win the championship and put him back on NFL radars. The Bills did not disclose additional roster details with the announcement.

Wheeler’s path back to the NFL

Before his UFL stint, Wheeler entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent with the Chicago Bears in 2024. His first professional season was derailed when he tore his ACL in a preseason game, causing him to miss the entire year.

He later spent time with the New Orleans Saints in 2025 before heading to the UFL, where he re-established his profile with a championship run. The Bills’ signing gives Wheeler another opportunity to compete in an NFL backfield after returning to full health.

What the signing means for Buffalo

For Buffalo, adding Wheeler provides additional running back depth as the team moves through offseason work and prepares for training-camp competition. Wheeler is expected to join team activities immediately as he vies for a roster spot.

The next step will be whether Wheeler can translate his UFL production into a role on the Bills’ roster once practices and preseason evaluations begin.