The Buffalo Bills are actively shaping their roster for the 2024 season as the NFL Draft approaches. Here are the latest developments:
1. Departure of Tre’Davius White: Head coach Sean McDermott expressed mixed feelings about cornerback Tre’Davious White’s departure, citing the unfortunate string of injuries White endured during his tenure with the Bills. White, a first-round pick in 2017 and a cornerstone of McDermott’s defense, suffered significant injuries, including tearing his ACL in 2021 and rupturing his Achilles in 2023.
McDermott praised White’s character, work ethic, and contributions to the team, acknowledging him as one of the best defensive backs in Bills history. White recently signed with the Los Angeles Rams, adding an intriguing storyline to the upcoming season.
General manager Brandon Beane revealed that discussions with White about potential offseason moves began even before the Senior Bowl. Beane maintained transparency throughout the process, discussing options like a pay cut or release with White and his agent. The decision to designate White as a post-June 1 release will yield significant cap savings, although the team could have received immediate relief with an earlier release date.
2. Curtis Samuel’s role: The Bills made a significant addition to their roster by signing wide receiver Curtis Samuel to a three-year deal in free agency. Both Beane and McDermott anticipate utilizing Samuel’s versatility in various roles within the offense. Beane, who worked with Samuel during his time with the Carolina Panthers, emphasized Samuel’s unique skill set and ability to contribute across multiple positions. Samuel’s experience transitioning between receiver and running back roles in college adds to his value and excites the Bills’ coaching staff about his potential impact on the team.
The Buffalo Bills are actively preparing for the upcoming season with several notable updates:
1. Curtis Samuel’s Versatility: General manager Brandon Beane emphasized Curtis Samuel’s versatility and highlighted his successful stint with offensive coordinator Joe Brady in 2020. Beane envisions Samuel contributing across various positions, including lining up in the backfield, at receiver, and as a returner. Samuel’s speed was also praised by head coach Sean McDermott, adding an element of speed to the Bills’ receiving corps.
2. Compensation Draft Pick: The Bills expected a third-round compensatory pick for the departure of linebacker Tremaine Edmunds but were awarded a fourth-round pick instead. Beane expressed disappointment in the decision, citing discrepancies in contract calculations. Despite discussions with the league, the decision remained unchanged, impacting the Bills’ draft strategy.
3. Von Miller’s Investigation: Pass-rusher Von Miller continues to be investigated for an alleged assault from November, with no updates from the Dallas County District Attorney’s Office. The NFL Commissioner considered placing Miller on the Commissioner’s Exempt list but ultimately decided against it based on available facts.
4. Defensive Playcalling: McDermott has yet to determine whether he or defensive coordinator Bobby Babich will call defensive plays this season. Babich has impressed McDermott, but a final decision has not been made.
5. Micah Hyde’s Status: Safety Micah Hyde remains a free agent, with the possibility of retirement still on the table. The Bills are open to bringing Hyde back if he decides to continue playing.
6. Fifth-Year Option: The Bills have until May 2 to decide whether to exercise pass-rusher Greg Rousseau’s fifth-year option. Rousseau’s development and contributions to the defensive line make it likely that the option will be picked up.
7. Wide Receiver Position: Wide receiver remains a potential target for the Bills in the draft, given the depth of talent available. Although picking late in the first round, Beane has not ruled out the possibility of moving up. Quarterback Josh Allen has been scouting draft prospects and expressed excitement about playing alongside Samuel.
Overall, the Bills are actively navigating offseason decisions and preparations as they gear up for the 2024 NFL season.
