The Buffalo Bills have once again been unable to overcome the Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC playoffs, suffering a tough 32-29 loss in the AFC Championship Game. Despite being one of the most dominant teams during the regular season, the Bills fell short when it mattered most against Mahomes and Reid.
As Buffalo shifts into offseason mode, the team is likely eager to make roster improvements. However, they are facing some challenges with limited salary cap space. According to Over the Cap, the Bills are around $7 million over the cap heading into the offseason. Fortunately, there are several moves they can make to free up room.
One key move will likely be the release of veteran Von Miller, who has been a backup behind Greg Rousseau and AJ Epenesa, and is making more than his production warrants. Cutting Miller with a post-June 1st designation would save the Bills $17.44 million in cap space.
Additionally, restructuring Josh Allen’s contract could provide around $10 million in cap relief, bringing the Bills’ total available cap space to $20 million.
With these adjustments, the Bills could target younger, affordable players in the final year of their contracts. This strategy would make potential trades more viable and manageable within the cap for the 2025 season.
Two players the Bills should consider trading for are:
1. Martin Emerson Jr. – Cornerback
Trade details:
Browns receive: 2025 fourth-round pick, 2025 sixth-round pick
Buffalo desperately needs another cornerback, especially with Rasul Douglas set to hit free agency. With only Taron Johnson and Christian Benford as reliable options, Emerson Jr. would provide a cost-effective, moderately talented replacement. Emerson Jr. had a strong season in 2023 with four interceptions and could benefit from a change of scenery in Buffalo. At just $3.58 million for 2025, he’s a budget-friendly option.
2. Daxton Hill – Defensive Back
Trade details:
Bills receive: DB Daxton Hill
Bengals receive: 2026 fourth-round pick, LB Baylon Spector
In addition to replacing Douglas, the Bills also need to address potential free agency losses, including veteran Damar Hamlin. While Hamlin could return, Buffalo’s limited cap space may force him to look elsewhere. Hill, a former first-round pick, offers versatility, able to play both cornerback and safety. He has not fully lived up to expectations in Cincinnati but remains a solid player. A trade for Hill, which would cost a backup linebacker and a future fourth-round pick, is worth considering, especially if Buffalo believes in his potential. If the Bills add both Emerson Jr. and Hill, their secondary would gain significant depth.
These trades could provide immediate help while also leaving flexibility for future moves.
