ESPN analyst Mel Kiper Jr. believes the Buffalo Bills can still thrive offensively despite trading star wide receiver Stefon Diggs. Can the Bills maintain their dominance in the AFC East without their top receiver?
Mel Kiper Jr. recently stated on ESPN’s Get Up that he doesn’t believe “the sky is falling” in Buffalo after the Stefon Diggs trade. He argues that the Bills possess the necessary components for a potent passing attack in the upcoming 2024 season. Kiper highlights tight end Dalton Kincaid’s emergence as a primary target in the Bills’ offense. He also points to the potential of wide receiver Khalil Shakir and fellow tight end Dawson Knox.
Assessing Buffalo’s Receiving Corps After Diggs Departure
While Kiper remains optimistic, the Bills’ receiving corps undoubtedly faces challenges. Trading Diggs and losing Gabe Davis in free agency leaves a significant void. Currently, Khalil Shakir and Curtis Samuel are the top two wide receivers on the depth chart. This situation presents a stark contrast to the team’s receiving strength just a year ago.
Josh Allen’s Impact and Draft Possibilities
Buffalo’s saving grace might be star quarterback Josh Allen. His improvisational skills and ability to elevate his receivers offer a glimmer of hope. Kiper suggests that the Bills could use their first-round draft pick to bolster their receiving options. This strategic move could potentially mitigate the loss of Diggs and Davis. Addressing the receiver position through the draft appears crucial for the Bills’ offensive success.
Challenges in the AFC East and Salary Cap Constraints
The Bills face stiff competition in the AFC East. The New York Jets’ improvements and the Miami Dolphins’ continued contention pose significant threats to Buffalo’s quest for a fifth consecutive division title. Complicating matters further is the Bills’ tight salary cap situation. The Diggs trade resulted in a substantial $31 million cap hit. This financial constraint likely limits their ability to acquire a high-profile receiver via trade.
The Road Ahead for the Buffalo Bills
The Bills’ success in 2024 hinges on several factors. Josh Allen’s performance, the development of young receivers, and potential draft acquisitions will be crucial. The team must navigate a challenging division and salary cap limitations. Whether the Bills can overcome these obstacles remains to be seen. The upcoming season will be a critical test of their resilience and adaptability. Can they maintain their standing in the AFC East without Stefon Diggs? Only time will tell.
