
Akiem Hicks
The defensive tackle is one that could be a major need for the Buffalo Bills next offseason and could look very different than it does currently. The team is expected to have Star Lotulelei back this season and he has two years remaining after this season, however, the Bills could release him after the season and save over $4 million but incur a penalty of $5 million in dead cap.
In addition to Lotulelei, the Bills also could see Harrison Phillips and Vernon Butler walk after this season as both players are entering the final year of their deals.
This is why a player like Akiem Hicks could be a good option for the interior of the defensive line. He has been with the Chicago Bears since 2016 and really emerged as one of the top defensive tackles in the league, including a Pro Bowl selection in 2018.
Even at 31 years old, he could still command a sizeable contract as a free agent and this could be enough to push the Buffalo Bills out. However, if Hicks is looking for an opportunity to join a team that seemingly is poised to make deep playoff runs on a regular basis, he could be a good addition.