Buffalo Bills: Pros and cons of a potential trade for Devin White

The Buffalo Bills have yet to find a clear replacement for linebacker Tremaine Edmunds, who signed with the Chicago Bears in free agency. General manager Brandon Beane talked about a potential competition this summer but that could change with the news that Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker Devin White reportedly requested a trade.

White was the fifth overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft and stepped in as a starter almost immediately with 62 starts over the first four years in the NFL. It would certainly make sense that the Buffalo Bills would explore a potential trade but is it the right move? Let’s discuss the pros and cons of a potential trade.

Pro: Addresses a major need with an experienced, Pro Bowl player

The first reason to do a trade is an obvious one as it addresses the biggest need currently on the roster at middle linebacker. Tremaine Edmunds has been a starter for five years and was a key part of a defense that typically ranked in the Top 5 each year.

The Bills don’t have much experience currently on the roster with Tyrel Dodson, Terrel Bernard and Baylon Spector combining for only five starts.

Devin White has plenty of experience and has played at a high level with 483 total tackles, 35 tackles for a loss, nine sacks, six forced fumbles and nine fumble recoveries. He has been named to one Pro Bowl and one second-team All-Pro.

In addition to his individual achievements, Devin White has plenty of experience in the postseason and even won a Super Bowl in 2020. For a team that is hoping to reach that level, adding a player with postseason experience is very valuable.