In the sea of blue and red jerseys that flood Highmark Stadium on game day, there’s one number that holds a special place in the hearts of Buffalo Bills fans: 44. That’s the number worn by rookie linebacker and special teams standout Joe Andreessen – a homegrown hero who rose from the very stands he now plays in front of.
The Making of a Buffalo Legend
Andreessen’s path to the NFL was anything but conventional. The Depew, NY native starred at Lancaster High School before playing five seasons at FCS Bryant University. With one year of eligibility left due to COVID-19, he transferred to the University at Buffalo for a final collegiate season in his backyard.
Despite leading the Bulls in tackles and TFLs in 2023, the 6’1″, 232-pounder went undrafted. But Andreessen never lost faith. After a tryout at the Bills’ rookie minicamp, the team couldn’t resist signing the high-motor, hometown kid.
I felt the vibe was a little different when I was [in Buffalo]. They were asking me personally a little bit more questions. They were a little more interested.
Joe Andreessen on his Bills’ tryout
Earning His Stripes
Andreessen maximized every rep in training camp, impressing with his tireless work ethic and sponge-like ability to absorb the playbook. When injuries hit the linebacking corps, he seized his chance, starting the second preseason game and posting 12 tackles.
The performance solidified Andreessen’s spot on the 53-man roster. GM Brandon Beane praised the rookie’s poise, saying he “passed the test” and “deserved the opportunity.” High praise for an unheralded prospect.
Becoming “Buffalo Joe”
As the regular season kicked off, Andreessen emerged as a special teams demon. Through 13 games, he’s tied for the team lead in coverage tackles, establishing himself as a fan favorite in the process. Around Buffalo, he’s known simply as “Buffalo Joe.”
It’s really awesome because you see a lot of his jerseys out there in the stands too. It’s incredible just because the way he is, how he approaches it and how he’s such a sponge about everything.
Bills DE A.J. Epenesa on Andreessen’s popularity
Back in Depew and neighboring Lancaster, Andreessen’s exploits have become folklore. His high school teacher Matt McCoy noted students listing “Buffalo Joe” jerseys as their favorite Christmas gifts. For a football-obsessed region, Andreessen represents the ultimate underdog made good.
Chasing Gridiron Glory
With the Bills set to host the Baltimore Ravens in the divisional playoffs, Andreessen is on the precipice of a boyhood dream – helping bring Buffalo its first Super Bowl. In a season defined by resilience, the fearless rookie embodies the team’s never-say-die ethos.
- 13 games played
- Tied for team lead in special teams tackles
- Fan favorite underdog story
As “Buffalo Joe” races downfield on kickoffs, an entire city will be living and dying with each hit. Because in Andreessen, Bills Mafia sees one of their own – a lifelong fan, just like them, fighting for a common cause. A blue-collar grinder who bleeds red and blue.
Some people thought early on it was a nice PR thing, right? But Joe’s earned every last piece of it.
Bills HC Sean McDermott on Andreessen’s role
Whether hoisting the Lombardi Trophy or not, one thing is certain: in stadiums, living rooms, and barrooms across Western New York, they’ll be cheering on their “Buffalo Joe” – the hometown kid who captured a region’s heart through sheer grit and determination. The pride of a football-crazed town chasing gridiron glory.
