Cole Beasley Released

I’m going to try and write this without saying the C word, or the P word, or the V word. Apologies, this is not a New York Times wordle article. Let’s talk about Cole Beasley. Specifically, his role on this team and status one of the best slot wide receivers in football.

Cole’s Impact

Cole spent three years in Western New York, and they were his three best over a 10-year career. Statistically, it’s tough to even argue that. Three of his top four season totals in yardage and receptions came in the red, white, and blue. He was a target monster for Josh Allen, with over 100 targets in each of his three seasons in Buffalo.

His impact was felt every game. My confidence on third down was borderline arrogant because of his ability to make every third and short catch. Josh didn’t always make it easy on him either. His ability to find the soft spot between linebackers and nickel corners was second to none. I can’t remember a single fumble (though he did have one in his three years here). After every catch he fell forward, absorbing a hit, but – most importantly – protecting himself.

You can argue that Cole was the first example of what a talented player can do with Josh Allen in Buffalo. He walked so Diggs could run. Free agents are calling Buffalo now, in part, because Cole came and flourished with Brian Daboll and Josh Allen. Beasley showed up. He didn’t complain. He made tough catch after tough catch, and we were a better team with him on the field.

Going Their Separate Ways

Ultimately, the writing was on the wall after the signing of Von Miller. We had to clear cap space. With Gabe Davis’ emergence – which is not talked about nearly enough – and the Isaiah McKenzie extension, it was time to part ways. There’s no reason to speculate about fractured relationships with McDermott or the front office. From a fan perspective, I don’t see how Beane and McDermott could have handled this situation any better.

As a close friend of mine said this morning, “Cole, thank you for your service. Got a little weird at the end there, but we love you and appreciate everything you did for our football team.”

Best of luck to Cole Beasley!!