Andre Reed

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NFL draft – 1985 / round: 4 / pick: 86
Buffalo Bills 50th Anniversary Team
2× Second-team All-Pro (1989, 1990)
7× Pro Bowl (1988–1994)
Buffalo Bills Wall of Fame

About Andre Reed

Andre Reed: A Legend in Buffalo Bills History

Buffalo, New York, is a city that loves its football, its hard work, and its legends. When it comes to legends, few names shine brighter than Andre Reed. Born on January 29, 1964, in Allentown, Pennsylvania, Reed found his way to Buffalo and became one of the most beloved icons in the city’s sports history. Over 16 stellar seasons in the NFL—15 of them with the Buffalo Bills—he showcased not just incredible talent but also an undeniable spirit that cemented his place in the hearts of fans forever.

From Humble Beginnings to Historic Greatness

Reed’s football story began modestly at Kutztown University, a small Division II school where he quickly caught the scouts’ attention with his speed, strong hands, and ability to gain yards after the catch. His underdog story took a major turn in 1985 when the Buffalo Bills selected him in the fourth round of the NFL Draft. Little did anyone know that this pick would go down as one of the greatest in franchise history.

From his rookie year, Reed began to show glimpses of future greatness. By his second season, he led the Bills in receptions and touchdowns, emerging as the team’s top receiving threat. But things truly took off when the Bills assembled their legendary K-Gun offense, a fast-paced attack helmed by Hall of Fame quarterback Jim Kelly. The connection between Kelly and Reed was nearly unstoppable—it would result in 663 career completions between them, the most in NFL history at the time.

A Record-Breaking Career

Reed’s talent for making plays, especially over the middle of the field, became his signature. Fearless in the face of punishing defenses, he excelled at turning short catches into long gains, earning him the nickname “YAC” for his unmatched yards-after-catch ability.

During his career, Reed set records that still stand today. He holds the Bills’ franchise records for receptions (941), receiving yards (13,095), and receiving touchdowns (86). He also played in an incredible 221 games—another Buffalo Bills record—staking his claim as one of the most durable and reliable players the team has ever seen.

Reed’s contributions helped power the Bills to four consecutive Super Bowl appearances from 1990 to 1993—a feat no other team has matched. His performance in those high-stakes games cemented his reputation as a big-game player. For instance, in the now-legendary comeback game against the Houston Oilers in the 1992 playoffs, Reed scored three touchdowns, helping the Bills recover from a 32-point deficit for an unforgettable victory.

Pro Football Hall of Fame and Beyond

After retiring in 2000, Reed’s legacy only grew. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2014, recognized as one of the all-time greats. During his Hall of Fame speech, Reed credited the game of football for teaching him life’s greatest lessons—discipline, perseverance, and resilience. It was a testament to how much he cherished the role Buffalo played in shaping his career and his life.

Reed was also inducted into the Buffalo Bills Wall of Fame and named to the team’s 50th Anniversary All-Time Team, further affirming his place among the greatest players to wear a Bills uniform.

A Lasting Impact on Buffalo

Andre Reed’s impact goes far beyond the numbers. He symbolizes the resilience and tenacity that define Buffalo. Even today, Reed remains an active contributor to the community through the Andre Reed Foundation, which supports underprivileged children and helps instill leadership qualities in young people. He’s also a proud advocate for the Boys & Girls Club, where he found support and guidance during his own challenging upbringing in Allentown.

Through his charity work, Reed has shown the same commitment off the field as he did on it, using his platform to inspire and uplift others.

Why Andre Reed is a Buffalo Icon

For Buffalo fans, Andre Reed represents everything they hold dear—passion, hard work, and loyalty. He wasn’t just a player who excelled on the field; he was a part of the city’s identity during one of its most celebrated eras. His fearless style of play captured the spirit of Buffalo sports, and his ongoing commitment to community service has only deepened the connection he has with the city and its fans.

Whether it’s his unforgettable plays, his records, or his genuine love for the city, Andre Reed’s legacy in Buffalo is secure. For fans of the Bills, Reed isn’t just a Hall of Famer—he’s a symbol of what it means to be part of the Buffalo family. From the first catch to his inspiring post-football career, Reed exemplifies the best of what sports can bring to a city.

To this day, whenever fans think of the legendary #83, they remember a player who always gave his all for the team—and a man who continues to give his all for Buffalo.