How the Buffalo Bills can transform the receiving corps in 2019

Trade for John Ross

The rumor was floated out last week that John Ross was on the trading block from the Cincinnati Bengals. If this is true, Buffalo should have put in a call immediately and tested the waters on what it would cost to bring Ross to Buffalo.

Ross was surprisingly drafted No. 9 overall out of Washington by the Bengals in 2017 after setting the combine record with a 4.22 40-yard dash time. His speed is clearly his calling card, but Ross developed into a red zone threat last season with 1/3 of his receptions (21) going for touchdowns (7).

There is a clear match with Ross’ speed and Josh Allen’s arm. The potential to take the top off a defense is unbelievable for the Bills offense; even more than Allen to Robert Foster.

What makes Ross so available is his lack of production for his high draft status. Ross did not register a catch in his rookie season of 2017 and brought home just 21 in 2018. Despite his big-play abilities, the former Washington Husky went for 210 yards and had a long of just 39 yards. All of this could mean Buffalo could swap a player and/or a mid-to-late round pick to acquire Ross’ talents.

It isn’t likely that Ross would become the team’s number one or number two, but he could certainly become a specialist and add another element to Brian Daboll’s offense. If he continues to develop into an all-around receiver, then great. However, Robert Foster and Zay Jones could just as easily continue to develop and become number two receivers.

Regardless, adding depth and speed to an offense that lacks both would be an ideal move for the Bills.