Over the past two days, two potential options for the Buffalo Bills at cornerback in free agency have come off the market. On Thursday, it was reported that Steven Nelson, who played for the Philadelphia Eagles last season, signed a two-year deal with the Houston Texans.
On Friday, it was former All-Pro cornerback Stephon Gilmore who had found a new home as he agreed to a two-year contract with the Indianapolis Colts. According to CBS Sports’ Josina Anderson, the Bills were among a few teams interested in signing Gilmore.
However, the contract that Gilmore reportedly signed, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter of two-years, $23 million likely was something that the Buffalo Bills didn’t have the room to fit under the salary cap.
Buffalo Bills running out of options in free agency to address cornerback
If the Buffalo Bills want to add a veteran cornerback this offseason, the options are starting to become scarce. The most notable names are Joe Haden, who previously was with the Pittsburgh Steelers, and Kyle Fuller, who played with the Denver Broncos last year.
Another player is Xavier Rhodes, who played with the Indianapolis Colts but now appears unlikely to return with the Colts signing Gilmore.
The reason the position is such a big need is centered around Tre’Davious White and the uncertainty about if he will be available to start the season. The former All-Pro suffered a torn ACL on Thanksgiving night and it remains to be seen if he will be available Week 1.
If he is not able to play, that really leaves Dane Jackson as the top cornerback. The former seventh-round pick has looked good at times but it would be tough to expect him to be the top cornerback. The other issue is that there is no clear option to start opposite Jackson if there are no moves made.
The Buffalo Bills will need to add a cornerback soon and fortunately have the NFL Draft in less than two weeks. This year, there are a number of prospects who have the potential to be a starter right from the start. However, if the front office hopes to bring in a veteran as a potential option to start while Tre’Davious White recovers, they may need to make a move sooner rather than later.