Key Takeaways:
– Buffalo Bills eyeing 29-year-old veteran wide receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling.
– Team’s General Manager, Brandon Beane, open to a discounted player but rules out major splash trade.
– Marquez Valdes-Scantling, recently cut from the Chiefs, could be the Bills’ solution to wide receiver gaps.
– Bills currently have approximately $2.8 million in cap space, expected to rise after Tre’Davious White’s proposed release.
Buffalo Bills’ Future Game Plan
The Buffalo Bills are looking to bolster their wide receiver room, and former Kansas City Chiefs player, Marquez Valdes-Scantling may be the answer. General Manager Brandon Beane recently indicated the team’s interest in adding an affordable veteran to the roster, but rejected the notion of a high-profile trading move.
Post NFL Draft Concerns
There’s been a cloud of concern over the Bills’ wide receiver section after the NFL draft. Last week, the team welcomed free agent Chase Claypool. However, rumours suggest that despite sporting Stefon Diggs’ jersey number, Claypool’s position in the team is not secure.
Can Marquez Valdes-Scantling Bridge the Gap?
In his compelling argument, Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox urges the Bills to consider signing former Chiefs wide receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling. He believes the experienced player could help the Bills in the quest for a Super Bowl win. Knox touched upon the lack of support to quarterback Josh Allen and felt that Keon Coleman’s addition might not sufficiently fill the gap left by Diggs.
Valdes-Scantling’s Previous Track Record
Describing Valdes-Scantling as inconsistent yet valuable, Knox highlighted his key performances during the 2023 postseason, including a standout game against Buffalo in the divisional round. He added that Valdes-Scantling, a two-time Super Bowl winner with the Chiefs, could bring invaluable experience to the Bills.
Valdes-Scantling’s Contract Termination and Future Prospects
Chiefs terminated Valdes-Scantling’s $30 million contract in late February, saving $11.9 million with a $2 million dead money charge for 2024. Despite being the highest-paid receiver on the Chiefs roster, Valdes-Scantling’s season performance did not justify his retention. In the four playoff games, he managed just 124 yards and one score from 13 targets.
Valdes-Scantling’s Pay Cut and Bills’ Budget
While Valdes-Scantling may be hesitant about a drastic pay cut following his nearly $9 million earnings with Kansas City last year, he might not have much choice at this stage of the offseason. Meanwhile, the Bills’ cap space currently stands at roughly $2.8 million, which is likely to increase by $10.2 million following Tre’Davious White’s post-June 1 release.
Competition Around Valdes-Scantling
The Los Angeles Chargers have reportedly invited Valdes-Scantling for a meet, indicating potential competition for the Bills. Regardless, Valdes-Scantling’s addition to the Bills’ lineup could be a significant move, given his solid track record of strong plays during critical games, as evidenced by his remarkable performance in the AFC Championship game against the Cincinnati Bengals.
Bills’ Alternatives and Market Condition
While Valdes-Scantling’s inconsistent performance could be a concern for the Bills, the available free-agent wide receiver market offers little respite. Other available options include former New Orleans Saints starter Michael Thomas and ex-Bills wide receiver Zay Jones, both of whom have been linked to Kansas City as well.
As the 2024 football season draws closer, it remains to be seen whether the Bills opt for Valdes-Scantling or another seasoned player to improve their wide receiver lineup.