The Buffalo Bills once again are trying to find a pass catching running back for their offense with the latest attempt being Nyheim Hines. The team traded with the Colts for the running back and sent a sixth round pick, that could become a fifth, and running back Zack Moss back to Indianapolis.
The move gives Buffalo a versatile player that could play a number of different roles through the remainder of the year. However, this means that it could also impact roles for players already on the roster.
When looking ahead, these are four players I could see having their role on the Buffalo Bills impacted by this trade.
4 Buffalo Bills likely impacted the most by the Nyheim Hines trade
James Cook
When considering Nyheim Hines’ skillset, it would appear that the player likely impacted the most is rookie running back James Cook. The Bills selected Cook in the second round to bring versatility to this offense and be a threat out of the backfield in the passing game.
Prior to the bye week, Cook was basically not a factor in this offense but had the best game of his career against the Packers with over 70 yards from scrimmage. It appeared he was trending towards an expanded role but that is now in question with the addition of Hines.
While general manager Brandon Beane answered that question on Wednesday and said it shouldn’t impact James Cook, it is hard to understand how it wouldn’t. The Bills brought Hines in for a reason and he gives the Bills more experience for this role.
James Cook may get a few touches per game but it probably won’t be more than that this season.