The Buffalo Bills opted not to make any trades as the NFL’s 2024 trade deadline passed, sticking with their current roster instead of making changes before the 4:00 p.m. cutoff.
General manager Brandon Beane’s choice to refrain from trading is not particularly surprising, even though he has expressed a willingness to make deals; the Bills are currently operating with less than $3 million in salary cap space and were therefore not in a strong position to take on even a moderately sized contract from another team. However, the Bills have already made a significant in-season acquisition by trading for five-time Pro Bowl wide receiver Amari Cooper from the Cleveland Browns in mid-October; Cooper has made five catches for 69 yards and one touchdown in his two appearances for Buffalo so far.
Moreover, they could see some key players return as the season progresses, most notably former All-Pro linebacker Matt Milano, who is expected back this year following a bicep tear he suffered in the offseason. Rookie defensive tackle DeWayne Carter is also likely to rejoin the team, which should enhance the Bills’ defensive capabilities.
While it might be a bit disappointing considering the excitement around trade deadline day, the Bills didn’t necessarily need to make any additional moves; with a record of 7-2, they currently rank No. 2 in the AFC and are capable of winning games with their existing lineup. Additionally, there may be a few players released after the trade deadline as teams that couldn’t finalize deals cut loose some players; the Bills might consider adding from this group since these players are unlikely to require substantial contracts for the remainder of the season.
