In a decision that marks the end of an impactful era, the Buffalo Bills have officially moved on from Stefon Diggs, trading the acclaimed wide receiver and additional draft picks to the Houston Texans. This transaction not only closes a chapter filled with playoff adventures and unforgettable moments but also sparks a significant shift in the team’s strategy as it navigates the upcoming season without one of its stars.
The Draft Dilemma, Filling the Void Left by Stefon Diggs
With Gabe Davis’ exit and Diggs‘ declining numbers in the latter part of last season, it was clear the Bills were poised to prioritize the wide receiver slot in the draft. Yet, Stefon Diggs’ departure intensifies the urgency, prompting speculation about General Manager Brandon Beane’s next move. Will the Buffalo Bills stick to their original plan, or will this recent change inspire a new approach to bolstering the team’s receiving corps?
Strategy 1: Aiming High with Trade Ambitions
Among the potential strategies, the Buffalo Bills could leverage their 10 2024 draft choices to clinch a top-tier prospect. Rome Odunze and Brian Thomas Jr. stand out as coveted targets.
Odunze, with an impressive 1,640 receiving yards in 2023, could be the jewel in Buffalo Bill’s crown, provided they manage a strategic leap in the draft order.
Meanwhile, Thomas, known for his athleticism and record-breaking touchdown receptions, offers another tantalizing option for the Bills, should they decide to trade up.
Strategy 2: The Standout Selection at Pick 28
Even if the Bills opt not to trade up, the 28th pick still holds promise with talents like Adonai Mitchell and Xavier Worthy on the board.
Mitchell’s well-rounded skill set and Worthy’s exceptional speed present exciting possibilities for Buffalo Bill’s offense, especially when paired with Josh Allen’s arm strength.
Additionally, a receiver like Keon Coleman could offer the physical presence Buffalo needs, embodying a blend of size and skill that could make up for Davis’ departure.
Following the trade of Stefon Diggs, PFF's @TampaBayTre released a 7-round mock draft for the #Bills and found WR help in round two with Washington's Ja'Lynn Polk🔊⬇️#BillsMafia pic.twitter.com/bGHjgRjW1Q
— One Bills Live (@OneBillsLive) April 4, 2024
Strategy 3: Second-Round Steals
Should the Bills decide to wait until the second round, Xavier Legette and Troy Franklin emerge as potential steals.
Both players have demonstrated their ability to stretch the field, with Legette and Franklin bringing in impressive yardage and touchdowns in 2023.
This approach could allow Buffalo Bills to tap into the draft’s depth without sacrificing quality, providing an opportunity to address other needs in the first round.
Strategy 4: Trading for Proven Talent
Exploring trades for established players like Brandon Aiyuk and Tee Higgins could also be on the table for the Bills. Despite their respective challenges — Aiyuk’s contract negotiations and Higgins’ request for a trade — either player could offer immediate impact and experience.
However, the cost of such a move, both in draft capital and salary cap considerations, requires careful deliberation.
Buffalo Bills Strategize to Fill Void
As the Buffalo Bills chart their course through these strategic options, the overarching goal remains clear: to build a dynamic and formidable receiver unit capable of propelling the team to new heights. Whether through bold trades, draft-day gambles, or astute acquisitions, Buffalo Bill’s approach to filling the void left by Stefon Diggs will be pivotal in shaping their offensive strategy and, ultimately, their success in the coming season.
Sources: Yardbarker
