The Bills must trade for two of the greatest players in the 2024 NFL offseason.
As the 2023 NFL season concludes, the Buffalo Bills reflect on a mixed bag of accomplishments. Despite having a winning record and making it to the Divisional Round of the playoffs, their Super Bowl dreams went unfulfilled. Looking ahead to the forthcoming NFL offseason in 2024, the Bills must strengthen their roster in order to compete for a championship.
The Bills’ 2023 Season Recap
The Buffalo Bills came into the 2023 NFL season with great expectations. Many expected them to be serious contenders for the title. Sure, they hit some bumps along the way. However, the Bills rallied hard enough to win the AFC East title and the conference’s second seed. Yes, they defeated the Pittsburgh Steelers in the Wild Card Round. Unfortunately, they fell short once more against the incumbent champs, the Kansas City Chiefs.
With their postseason ride complete, head coach Sean McDermott and general manager Brandon Beane must quickly shift their focus to the offseason. The AFC landscape is brimming with talent, and the Bills have multiple uncertainty as the offseason approaches.
Fortunately, the Bills have their franchise quarterback in Josh Allen. However, with multiple prospective departures, other aspects of the roster require adjustment.
Off-season Outlook
The Bills face the difficult task of staying under the salary cap for the 2024 season. This may indicate the end of their Super Bowl window with the present core. Yes, the presence of Josh Allen assures that the AFC remains competitive. However, in order to embrace a youth movement, companies must also strategically eliminate veteran contracts.
Trading Von Miller or Stefon Diggs requires a post-June 1 transaction. A pre-June 1 transaction including Miller saves only $2 million in total. However, a subsequent agreement guarantees a significant $17.4 million relief in 2024. Similarly, Diggs’ large cap relief of $19 million is only accessible after June 1. Keep in mind that both players are above 30 and experiencing a reduction in production.
Here, we’ll look at the two top players the Buffalo Bills need to trade for in the upcoming 2024 NFL offseason.
Khalil Mack
Given salary cap constraints, the Bills are unlikely to emerge as major players in the trade market. However, if Beane can navigate the budgetary complications, defensive reinforcements would be a logical choice.
As a result, fans should expect the Bills to prioritise young, cost-effective players this summer. Buffalo is also interested in players who have rookie contracts that are about to expire.
Nonetheless, the Bills should look into the possibilities of acquiring a huge name like Khalil Mack. After all, he is a past Defensive Player of the Year, and his presence may transform the team’s defence. Despite their powerful defence, the Bills lacked a true pass-rushing threat in 2023. This is where Mack steps in. His record of double-digit sacks in five of his eight NFL seasons could help replace that vacuum. Furthermore, his veteran leadership might serve as a mentor for the team’s younger players. Take note that the Los Angeles Chargers have a significant cap problem. As such, Buffalo should consider pursuing Mack.
Mack is likewise at a crossroads in his career, with his large deal requiring his full concentration. His cap figure of more than $38 million presents a challenge for the Chargers. This may encourage them to seek out bidders for his contract.
Aaron Robinson
Aaron Robinson is another intriguing candidate for the Bills, particularly for improving their secondary. Despite having quality in the secondary, the Bills may need another playmaker to compliment Tre’Davious White. Robinson’s stature, quickness, and ball abilities might have a huge impact on the team.
Naturally, the Bills will have to make concessions in order to acquire these players. This may involve draft picks or current roster members. However, the possible benefits outweigh the hazards. With Mack and Robinson on board, the Bills’ team dynamics should improve, increasing their chances of making a long playoff run in 2024.
Aside: What do you do with Diggs?
Beane continues to be intrigued by how Stefon Diggs is handled. Sure, Diggs remains a top-tier receiver. However, his reduced role near the end of the regular season raises concerns. Diggs’ options include trading or renegotiating his contract, both of which create hurdles.
Releasing Diggs to reduce cap pressure isn’t the best answer. Take notice that he has a $27.9 million cap hit in 2024 and $31.1 million left on his contract. Releasing him with a post-June 1 designation would result in savings but considerable dead-cap costs.
Even if the Bills keep Diggs, improving receiver depth remains a concern. Targets such as Tee Higgins, Michael Pittman Jr., Tyler Boyd, and Donovan Peoples-Jones offer viable choices.
Looking ahead.
As the Bills prepare for the 2024 NFL summer, the possibility of smart moves looms. Yes, overcoming salary cap constraints may be challenging. However, the prospective additions of Khalil Mack and Aaron Robinson might strengthen the Bills’ defensive capabilities and secondary depth, respectively. With a keen eye on long-term team dynamics, the Bills can make strategic moves to increase their competitiveness in 2024. As the offseason progresses, the Bills Mafia will look to their front office to navigate the complex dance of player acquisitions and roster management. They hope that these moves will finally culminate to a successful 2024 campaign.
