3 Wide Receivers the Bills Could Target After Missing Out on Deebo Samuel
One of the Buffalo Bills’ top priorities this offseason is securing an experienced wide receiver who can make a significant impact during the playoffs. Last season, the team acquired Amari Cooper from the Cleveland Browns, expecting him to be a key offensive weapon. However, he only managed 20 catches for 297 yards and two touchdowns over eight games.
With Cooper set to hit free agency, his return to Buffalo appears unlikely. While the Bills have promising young receivers in Khalil Shakir and Keon Coleman, they still need a veteran presence to help guide their development.
On Saturday, one of Buffalo’s potential trade targets, Deebo Samuel, was dealt from San Francisco to Washington in exchange for a fifth-round pick. With Samuel no longer an option, the Bills must explore other avenues. Here are three wide receivers they could pursue.
Cooper Kupp
During Super Bowl week, the Los Angeles Rams informed Cooper Kupp that he would not be part of their future plans.
Kupp had an incredible 2021 season, leading the NFL in receptions, receiving yards, and touchdowns, earning both Offensive Player of the Year and Super Bowl MVP honors. However, injuries have been a concern, limiting him to just 33 regular-season games over the past three years.
According to Spotrac, Kupp turns 32 this summer and carries a nearly $30 million cap hit for 2025. Given Buffalo’s other roster needs, taking on that contract would be difficult. However, due to his age, injury history, and salary, the Rams may not require a significant return in a trade.
If Los Angeles ultimately releases Kupp, Buffalo would likely make him a top free-agent target. The Bills could acquire him on a team-friendly deal, minimizing financial risk if injuries continue to be an issue.
Tee Higgins
Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins isn’t expected to be available this offseason, as reports suggest the team plans to use the franchise tag on him.
However, a franchise tag doesn’t rule out the possibility of a trade. Had Higgins been a free agent, Buffalo would have had an easier path to acquiring him. If the Bengals opt to trade him, though, they would likely prefer to send him outside the AFC to avoid strengthening a Super Bowl contender.
At this stage, Higgins joining Buffalo remains unlikely, but if Cincinnati reverses course and declines to use the franchise tag, the Bills could emerge as a potential suitor.
Marquise “Hollywood” Brown
A name to watch for Buffalo in the coming weeks is Marquise “Hollywood” Brown. The 27-year-old wide receiver just completed his first season with the Kansas City Chiefs, but his impact was minimal due to an injury that limited him to just two regular-season games.
Brown was initially signed by Kansas City to be a deep threat for Patrick Mahomes. However, rookie wide receiver Xavier Worthy stepped into that role instead.
Now a free agent, Brown could be an ideal fit for Buffalo, as the Bills need a receiver capable of stretching the field. Signing him would not only address that need but also weaken a key AFC rival.
Brown is unlikely to command a lucrative contract and will likely sign a short-term deal to reestablish his value after missing most of last season. A one-year contract with Buffalo would provide him with the opportunity to showcase his abilities while helping the Bills solidify their receiving corps.
Final Thoughts
Buffalo must add a veteran wide receiver this offseason who can make a difference in critical playoff moments. While they are expected to draft a receiver early, bringing in an experienced playmaker is essential for their postseason aspirations.
