The Buffalo Bills have stayed in the running as Super Bowl contenders despite significant roster changes in the offseason. They are exceeding expectations in what was anticipated to be a rebuilding year, prompting general manager Brandon Beane to stay proactive ahead of the 2024 NFL trade deadline on Tuesday.
One potential target is Las Vegas Raiders linebacker. Vinnie Iyer from Sporting News speculated that the Bills might pursue Spillane to address the issues caused by injuries to their starting linebackers, Matt Milano and Terrel Bernard.
The Bills have already made a significant addition by trading for wide receiver Amari Cooper from the Cleveland Browns. A similar defensive upgrade could enhance Buffalo’s chances for the rest of the season.
Las Vegas Raiders linebacker is a compelling target for the Bills. Vinnie Iyer from Sporting News suggested that the Bills might trade for him to address the challenges posed by injuries to their starting linebackers, Matt Milano and Terrel Bernard.
The Bills have already strengthened their roster by acquiring wide receiver Amari Cooper from the Cleveland Browns. A similar defensive upgrade could significantly enhance Buffalo’s prospects for the rest of the season.
Bills Linked to Raiders LB Robert Spillane
Linebacker is Bills’ Biggest Deadline Need
Buffalo’s linebacker issues aren’t receiving the attention they deserve locally, even among the team’s most dedicated followers.
Joe Buscaglia of The Athletic identified the Bills’ top needs as “offensive line depth, edge rusher help, safety, and defensive tackle.” Meanwhile, WGR’s Jeremy White conducted a poll asking fans what position Buffalo should target, listing safety, defensive line, and wide receiver as options.
The lack of discussion around linebackers likely comes from a false sense of security regarding the health of Matt Milano and Terrel Bernard. Milano was initially expected to return from his bicep injury in December, but one setback could sideline him for the entire season. Even if he comes back, his performance is uncertain, as he hasn’t played since October 8, 2023.
On the other hand, Bernard has already missed three games due to pectoral and ankle injuries. Given that he’s dealing with multiple issues in Week 9, it’s unrealistic to expect him to be at full strength for the playoffs.
It’s crucial for the Bills to avoid relying on Dorian Williams and Baylon Spector as their starting linebackers in a playoff scenario. With Williams holding a 59.1 overall Pro Football Focus grade and Spector at 40.0, they represent one of the weakest linebacker duos in the NFL.
Clearly, linebacker is the Bills’ most pressing need by a significant margin.
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