Finding a replacement for All-Pro safety Micah Hyde, who may become a free agent or retire, is a top priority for the Buffalo Bills this offseason. Fortunately, the recent release of All-Pro safety Eddie Jackson from the Chicago Bears could be a potential solution for the Bills. Jackson’s leadership and versatility in the secondary make him a strong fit for the Bills, who have placed a heavy importance on the safety position. Although Jackson has struggled with foot injuries in recent years, he has still managed to make a significant impact on the Bears’ secondary and bring leadership to the team. With his $18.1-million cap hit, Jackson was a logical candidate for release by the Bears.
Buffalo May See Major Changes in Secondary
The Bills’ secondary could undergo significant changes, according to Ventre, as Hyde’s contract has expired, and he may retire instead of returning to Buffalo. After the season’s conclusion, his wife, Amanda Hyde, posted a letter on Instagram that seemed to say goodbye to fans and the franchise that signed him in 2017.
“Through thick and thin, you guys stood by our side, and we appreciate you. This truly is the city of good neighbors, and we feel privileged to have been a part of it,” she wrote.
“So, Bills Mafia, thank you. Thank you for making this place our home… And thank you for making it so difficult to leave. You will always have a special place in our hearts, and we love you guys!”
Ventre also suggested that the Bills may part ways with fellow All-Pro safety Jordan Poyer, who could be released due to the team’s tight salary cap situation.
“Poyer still has one year left on his 2023 contract, but he may be released as a salary cap casualty,” Ventre wrote. “The Bills’ third safety, Taylor Rapp, who played on a cap-friendly one-year deal this past season, adds another question mark to the equation.”
Nathan Dougherty is a sports reporter for Heavy.com, covering the Buffalo Bills and Detroit Lions. He previously wrote for the Rochester Business Journal and served as the assistant editor of athletic trade magazines Coaching Management, Athletic Management, and Training & Conditioning. He is based in Rochester, New York, and is a football enthusiast. More about Nathan Dougherty.
