TB #8

Terrel Bernard

Linebacker · Baylor

Terrel Bernard is a Bills defensive captain and Sugar Bowl MVP whose 2025 season was interrupted by an elbow injury just after signing a $50 million extension.

Terrel Bernard has grown from a third-round Baylor product into one of the vocal leaders of Buffalo's defense, serving as a team captain alongside Josh Allen. A new contract signed in March 2025 reflected his standing on the roster, though an in-season injury cut short what had been another solid campaign.

★ Sugar Bowl MVP, Baylor, 2021

★ First-team All-Big 12, 2021

★ AFC Defensive Player of the Week, 2023

★ Four-year, $50 million contract extension with the Bills, signed March 2025

★ Bills defensive team captain

Path to the league

Bernard played linebacker at Baylor from 2017 to 2021 after redshirting his freshman year, earning first-team All-Big 12 honors in 2021 and two second-team selections in 2019 and 2020. He was named Sugar Bowl MVP after recording 20 tackles and 2 sacks in Baylor's win over Ole Miss, and the Buffalo Bills drafted him in the third round, 89th overall, in 2022.

Career highlights

Bernard has built a reputation as one of Buffalo's most productive defenders, totaling 334 tackles, 7.5 sacks, 6 interceptions, and 6 fumble recoveries through 2025. He earned AFC Defensive Player of the Week honors during a breakout 2023 season and serves as one of the Bills' defensive captains alongside quarterback Josh Allen.

2025 season recap

Bernard signed a four-year, $50 million contract extension with the Bills in March 2025 and was productive through the first three months of the season, racking up 65 tackles in 12 games. His year was cut short after an elbow injury suffered in a collision with teammate Matt Milano during a game against Houston, which sidelined him for the remainder of the campaign.