Could the Buffalo Bills trade Cole Beasley this offseason?
This offseason, the Buffalo Bills were going to have to make a decision about wide receiver Cole Beasley. He has been a big part of the offense since joining the team as a free agent in 2019 but at 33 years old and one year left on his contract, the team may have looked to release him to free up over $6 million in cap space.
On Friday, Mike Garafolo reported on the NFL Network that general manager Brandon Beane told him that he was approached by Beasley’s representation. Garofolo said:
"“He approached us, we listened and have allowed them to seek a trade partner.”"
Garafolo did go on to say that Beane did say they would welcome him back and “no door has been closed.” He also said that if Beasley were to return it he would expect he would seek a new contract.
From NFL Now on @nflnetwork: The #Bills have granted permission for WR Cole Beasley to seek a trade, though GM Brandon Beane told me late yesterday the team would welcome him back and “no door has been closed.” pic.twitter.com/NT3wjx6YZR
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) March 4, 2022
Buffalo Bills could be looking for a new slot receiver this offseason
It is interesting to note that it was Beasley who is requesting the trade based on Garafolo’s reporting. He is coming off a season where he tied his career-high in receptions (82) but saw the other statistics take a significant drop and tied his career low in yards per reception (8.5). While there were times that Beasley would be a big part of this offense, he appeared to take a lesser role with the development of players like Gabriel Davis and Dawson Knox.
After the season, general manager Brandon Beane was asked about Cole Beasley and he said he anticipated that he would be back next season. However, with this request now that means changes could change and Buffalo may want to consider bringing in another slot receiver this offseason.