The Buffalo Bills suffered a third straight playoff loss at the hands of the Kansas City Chiefs. Could it be time to trade away Stefon Diggs?
Following a heartbreaking 27-24 defeat, Diggs declined to talk to media after the game. It was a lackluster performance for the former All-Pro, ending with only three catches for 21 yards.
This showing follows an alarming trend of Diggs failing to show up when the Bills need him most. His numbers are noticeably lower than usual in playoff losses.
It doesn’t help that Diggs has a history of calling out the coaching staff and, at times, his fellow teammates. While the star wideout has been quick to shut rumors down in the past, the hints are there if you follow the breadcrumbs.
Trading Stefon Diggs isn’t as easy as it may seem
But would a trade actually benefit the Bills? Or would it make matters worse for the offense?
There are a few apparent roadblocks when it comes to trading Diggs. First, Buffalo doesn’t have the pieces at wide receiver to cover his departure effectively.
Next, moving Diggs’ contract is not easy and would require another team willing to take on a premium contract for an aging asset — even if he’s still performing at an elite level.
For those asking about Diggs. The cost to cut or trade Diggs on the salary cap is $31.1M so it is going to be a tough one if they arent all on the same page https://t.co/EtAm6sKR8l
— Jason_OTC (@Jason_OTC) January 22, 2024
Finally, the team’s franchise cornerstone, Josh Allen, will not be happy if Diggs gets traded elsewhere. Allen credits the veteran presence for helping him develop as a passer since 2020.
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The Wyoming product said as much after the loss to Kansas City. “[Diggs] is my brother,” Allen replied candidly in the post-game presser.
Breaking up this dynamic duo would do more harm than good — contractually, team chemistry-wise, and optically.
The Bills would be smart to mend fences with Diggs
Convincing premier players to sign with Buffalo in free agency is not always easy, even with a franchise signal-caller on the roster. Moving on from a superstar like Diggs is not something the front office will do lightly.
But, as is often the case in sports, everyone has a price. If the Bills receive an offer of a first-round pick (or more) for Diggs, Buffalo must consider ripping the bandaid off and eating the dead cap charge.
Barring a “Godfather” style of offer, one the Bills simply cannot refuse, it’s a safe bet that Diggs and Allen will continue terrorizing opposing defenses in 2024.
Next offseason, Buffalo can void the remainder of Diggs’ contract for a minimal charge against the salary cap. That presents the most likely breaking-up point for the disgruntled pass catcher and the Bills.
Until then, No. 14 will be back in Western New York. Hopefully, it will result in a Super Bowl title for Bills Mafia.