3 surprise trades the Buffalo Bills could make during 2023 NFL Draft

Surprise trades the Buffalo Bills could make during 2023 NFL Draft: Dealing RB James Cook

After trading up and drafting Bijan Robinson, the Bills now move on from last year’s second-round pick, James Cook, because he will otherwise see a major reduction in playing time. Buffalo can’t afford to keep him around when there is value to be had if they were to trade him, so that’s what they do here.

Of all teams the Bills could make this move with, of course it’s the Cincinnati Bengals. But, the explanation makes a lot of sense.

For a few days now, there have been reports suggesting the Bengals could end up cutting starting running back Joe Mixon if the veteran doesn’t agree to a pay cut. In addition to those reports, Mixon has also found his name in some off-field trouble, as well.

Mixon’s cap hit this season is over $12 million, but if Cincinnati cuts him, they would save $7 million. A deal like this makes a lot of sense, because the Bengals don’t have another option at running back who could step in and be their guy. Cook is young and a multi-talented back who could offer the team three more years on a rookie deal with plenty of potential to break out.