The smallest running back in the 2026 NFL draft class is getting a big opportunity in Buffalo.
The Bills are signing former University of Pittsburgh running back Desmond Reid as an undrafted free agent, adding a dynamic but undersized playmaker to its backfield.
Reid measured in at 5-foot-6 and 174 pounds at the NFL Scouting Combine — the shortest and lightest running back in this year’s class — but his production and versatility stand out.
Reid, 21, was one of the most productive all-purpose players in college football with the Panthers in 2024, ranking ninth in the FBS with 1,704 all-purpose yards. He rushed for 966 yards and five touchdowns while adding 52 receptions for 579 yards and four touchdowns, showcasing his ability as a receiver out of the backfield. Reid was named first-team All-ACC and a second-team All-American..
Reid began his career at Western Carolina, where he earned Southern Conference Freshman of the Year honors in 2022 and rushed for 1,723 yards with 17 touchdowns over two seasons. He transferred to Pittsburgh and quickly became a key piece of the offense.
Injuries limited Reid to seven games in 2025, but he remained productive, totaling 595 yards from scrimmage and four touchdowns.
Despite his size, Reid’s short-area quickness and ability to make defenders miss have made him a dangerous weapon in space. He was ranked as the No. 17 running back on Mel Kiper Jr.’s pre-draft big board.
The Bills did not select a running back in the 2026 draft. Reid offers a different skill set than the team’s current group. Buffalo returns NFL rushing leader James Cook, Ray Davis and Ty Johnson. Frank Gore Jr., has spent the past two seasons on the practice squad.
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Bills sign smallest RB in NFL draft class, and he’s an All-American
Reporting by Ryan Miller, Rochester Democrat and Chronicle / Rochester Democrat and Chronicle
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
