Last season, the Buffalo Bills ranked 9th in the NFL in rushing, despite not having that premier type of running back behind Josh Allen.
Speaking of Allen, that’s the man they have to thank for being such a well-rounded offense. It was Allen’s legs that became the catalyst for this rushing attack behind he, Devin Singletary, James Cook and company.
Now, though, going into 2023 free agency, the Bills have an opportunity to make things look a lot different in their back field, and most agree that they will do so.
Where does the running back position stand as the Bills head toward free agency? Let’s dive a little deeper.
The Buffalo Bills’ running back room will likely look different after free agency
Bills running backs under contract for 2023:
Nyheim Hines — $4.79 million
James Cook — $1.3 million
Going into the 2023 season, Nyheim Hines takes up a good chunk at $4.79 million against the cap. For a gadget type, special teams ace, or more of a third down back, that’s a large sum of money. Now, the Bills did trade for Hines last year, however they could release him and be out zero dollars in dead money.
Do the Bills opt to save nearly $5 million by cutting Hines and going a cheaper route, or filling his spot by way of the draft?
Bills running back free agents for 2023:
Devin Singletary
Taiwan Jones
It is very easy to see this Bills running back room without both Singletary and Jones going into the coming season. Singletary did enough during his time with Buffalo, but it was never overly impressive. Finding someone to step in and take over his role should not be a problem, whether it’s in the draft or via free agency.
Now, if the Bills really wanted to spice up their offense and add a true playmaker, then one of the following guys might be a strong option to bring in to replace Singletary.
Best available free agent running backs in 2023:
Saquon Barkley
Josh Jacobs
Miles Sanders
Tony Pollard
David Montgomery
Kareem Hunt
Jamaal Williams
Buffalo doesn’t have much to work with in terms of cap space, but if Brandon Beane was able to get creative with some restructures and bring in one of the above names, this offense would be a different beast.
Most notably, Saquon Barkley, Josh Jacobs or Tony Pollard would be excellent options. Even adding last year’s league-leading touchdown rusher, Jamaal Williams, is a tantalizing idea.
The fact is, though, that the Bills will likely part with Singletary. There are many options to replace him, and far better players than he.