Bills Expected to Pursue 6-Foot-4 WR as New Target for Josh Allen
The Buffalo Bills face crucial decisions regarding their wide receiver corps this offseason, with two key veterans set to hit free agency.
An insider believes that regardless of their choices on these players, the team may look to infuse youth and versatility into the group.
Alex Ballentine of Bleacher Report suggested that the Bills could use a mid-to-late-round pick in the NFL Draft to add a sizable and flexible pass-catcher. After overhauling their receiving corps last season by moving on from Stefon Diggs and Gabe Davis, the Bills could continue their rebuild in the upcoming draft.
Bills Eye Versatile Wideout
Ballentine pointed to Iowa State’s Jayden Higgins as a potential Day 3 target, particularly if the Bills lose key contributors in free agency.
“Wide receiver could become a bigger priority if Amari Cooper or Mack Hollins aren’t retained,” Ballentine wrote. “Assuming they bring back or sign at least one veteran to pair with Keon Coleman and Khalil Shakir, they might look for a developmental prospect later in the draft.”
Higgins would bring versatility, as he can play multiple receiver positions, adding depth and size to the roster.
“Drafting Higgins would give them another big-bodied target. He’s not the most explosive athlete, but at 6’4” and 217 pounds, he’s a strong ball-winner,” Ballentine wrote. “B/R’s Dame Parson noted that Higgins can play at all three receiver spots, which could make him a valuable fourth option with upside.”
Higgins recorded 140 receptions for 2,166 yards and 15 touchdowns over two seasons at Iowa State.
Speed May Be a Bigger Priority
While the Bills are considering adding size to their receiving corps, they may prioritize speed. Last season, the team had physical targets but lacked a true deep threat to take full advantage of Josh Allen’s powerful arm.
At the NFL Combine, Bills general manager Brandon Beane acknowledged the need for more speed in the offense.
“Maybe we didn’t have enough speed … but we still averaged over 30 points per game,” Beane said via the Democrat & Chronicle. “If we were the 20th-ranked offense, I’d probably agree with that more.”
Beane emphasized that while speed is valuable, it’s just one part of the equation.
“Do I think a lack of speed cost us a Super Bowl? No,” Beane said. “Could we improve it? Yes. We’re always looking to add speed, but they have to be football players first. Football isn’t played on a track—we evaluate the full package.”
As the draft approaches, the Bills will have to balance their need for a reliable, big-bodied receiver with their desire to add a true deep threat to the offense.
