Are the Bills a Potential Trade Partner for the Bears' Ninth Pick?
In a surprising move, the Bills made waves on Wednesday by parting ways with their star wide receiver, Stefon Diggs, in a trade with the Texans. Alongside Diggs, a sixth-round pick, and a 2025 fifth-round pick were shipped off, while in return, the Bills acquired a 2025 second-round pick.
This trade leaves a significant void in the Bills' receiving corps. With Diggs gone, the spotlight now falls on Khalil Shakir, who emerged as the primary receiver last season with 611 yards and two touchdowns. Additionally, Dalton Kincaid, a rising tight end, contributed similar numbers.
However, while Shakir and Kincaid show promise, they may not fill the shoes of Diggs as primary options. With Josh Allen hitting his prime and ranking high in MVP considerations last season, the Bills face a crucial decision: are they aiming to replace Diggs immediately or embarking on a roster retooling journey?
The upcoming 2024 NFL Draft marks the beginning of this journey for the Bills, who hold the No. 28 pick in the first round. Speculation arises whether General Manager Brandon Beane will rely on Ryan Poles to secure a new top-tier receiver in the draft.
Mel Kiper's recent remarks on ESPN suggest the Bears might consider drafting Rome Odunze at No. 9, which could prompt the Bills to contemplate moving up in the draft. Historically, teams have made significant leaps in the draft to secure star receivers, as seen with the Atlanta Falcons' move for Julio Jones in 2011.
Yet, the Bills face constraints with their draft choices, which may hinder such a move. Nevertheless, creative strategies involving future picks could come into play. The absence of Diggs in this draft intensifies the pressure, likely resulting in multiple receivers joining the Bills' roster.
Meanwhile, attention also turns to the Chicago Bears, who hold the No. 9 pick. While the consensus is on drafting Caleb Williams as the top pick, the Bears face decisions regarding their subsequent picks. With limited selections in the 2024 NFL Draft, the importance of each pick is magnified.
Considering the depth of talent at wide receiver in this draft class, the Bills might be tempted to move up. However, financial considerations and the need for a comprehensive roster rebuild following significant offseason losses may lead them to approach the draft conservatively.
In the dynamic landscape of the NFL draft, surprises are inevitable. Nevertheless, as the Bears contemplate potential trades, the Bills stand ready to navigate their draft strategy amidst speculation and opportunity.
| POLL | ||
6 AVRIL | 61 ANSWERS Are the Bills a Potential Trade Partner for the Bears' Ninth Pick? Do you think the Bills should prioritize drafting a new top-tier receiver or focus on rebuilding their roster with young talent? | ||
| Yes | 47 | 77 % |
| No | 14 | 23 % |
| List of polls | ||
