NFL Cutdown Deadline: Who Should Bills Sign?

The NFL’s cutdown deadline came and passed, and the Buffalo Bills have some positions that need to be addressed. With just two QBs rostered, and the Bills already looking elsewhere for Josh Allen’s backup, that is a position to watch. Also, with Justin Shorter going on IR to begin the season, the Bills could look to bring in a sixth receiver today. So, with the Bills having the 28th priority in the waiver order, who should they look to bring in?

Quarterback

Bailey Zappe

Zappe, a former draft pick of the New England Patriots, was a surprise cut by the Patriots Tuesday. The Bills haven’t shied away from bringing in young QBs in the past, and signing someone with upside could be a move for Brandon Beane. Zappe totaled 781 yards, five TDs, and three INTs in two career starts, along with a 70.7 completion percentage.

Colt McCoy

McCoy was recently released by the Arizona Cardinals, and fills that veteran backup role that McBeane loves so much. IF the Bills decide to bring him in, they’ll have a decision to make on Kyle Allen. With both having similar skillsets, it’s unlikely both are kept on the 53, meaning Allen would have to go. McCoy has more experience (and starts) in this league. He made three starts for Arizona last season, recording 780 yards, one TD, and three INTs.

Honorable Mention: PJ Walker

Wide Receiver

N’Keal Harry

Harry visited with the Bills back in late July with Andy Isabella. He provides nice depth for Buffalo and, standing at 6’4”, has the size that they’ve been looking for all off-season, and what they’ll be missing with Justin Shorter out. Harry totaled 116 yards and one TD on seven receptions last season.

Alex Erickson

Erickson spent most of his career with the Cincinnati Bengals, but has had some short stints with the Houston Texans, Carolina Panthers, Washington Commanders, and was a preseason standout with the New York Jets in 2023. Erickson, who was the NFL’s kickoff return yards leader in 2016 with Cincinnati, could fill the kickoff return duties for Buffalo. He could be signed to the practice squad initially and called up during the season.

Middle Linebacker

Christian Kirksey

The Buffalo Bills had interest in Kirksey back in 2020, before signing with the Cleveland Browns. Now, with a serious hole at the position, Kirksey could fill the gap perfectly. Last season, he totaled 124 tackles, seven TFLs, three sacks, and two INTs with the Houston Texans. After two years with Houston, the defensive captain was surprisingly released not too long after signing a two-year extension in March. Now, at 30 years old, he could be Buffalo’s answer this season at MLB.

Deion Jones

Jones, is a worse option than Kirksey, but two years younger. And, if they decide to go in house, will provide nice depth for the team to replace AJ Klein. Jones was recently released by the Panthers after signing there in July. In 2021, his last year as a full-time starter, Jones totaled 137 tackles, two sacks, and one forced fumble with the Atlanta Falcons. Jones provides nice coverage and pass rush skill.

Featured Image: AP Photo/Michael Dwyer