They started the season 11–1 before losing three of their final four games, costing them the top seed in the AFC, and home-field advantage throughout the playoffs.
The 1988 season was the first for running back Thurman Thomas, nose tackle Jeff Wright, and linebacker Carlton Bailey.
Four Bills players made the All-Pro team in 1988: defensive end Bruce Smith, linebackers Shane Conlan and Cornelius Bennett, and kicker Scott Norwood.
ESPN's cameras watched Oklahoma State running back Thurman Thomas in his home as he waited to be drafted.
Thomas would go on to a Pro Football Hall of Fame career, where he would eclipse O. J. Simpson's all-time team rushing record with 12,074 yards.
[7] Quarterbacks Running backs Wide receivers Tight ends Offensive linemen Defensive linemen Linebackers Defensive backs Special teams Reserve lists rookies in italics 47 active, 13 inactive [8] [9] [10]