Nyheim Hines isn’t the focus of this post, but I wanted to add him to demonstrate how the Bills could save nearly $5 million on the cap by cutting Hines, even if his deal doesn’t expire until 2024. It would free up space in the running back room.
If you could guarantee Damien Harris’s ability to play the entire season in good shape, I would be all for re-signing him. Throughout his career, he has struggled to do so.
If he’s prepared to commit to the vet minimum in exchange for a slew of bonuses, I’m interested. If not, I’d use the draft to fill the RB room as a backup plan. Despite his exceptional running-back abilities, Harris is not a consistent performer in the long run.
He appeared in six games and took 60 snaps the prior season. He gained 94 yards and scored a touchdown on the run. He also accumulated sixteen receiving yards.
The Buffalo Bills appear to add one or two running backs to their squad each season. In addition to Hines, there are three other unsigned free agents and James Cook to choose from. The 2024 team will most likely feature two new backs and one practice squad member.
I’d try to re-sign Ty Johnson and pick a third back, but I doubt Brandon Beane is interested in what I’m saying.
Instead of re-signing Harris, Buffalo may opt to start Cook, Johnson, and Hines in the backfield and bring back Ty Johnson. This backfield appears to be powerful, but you still need your power back.
It irritates me to use a roster space for a player who only plays short-yardage backs. I prefer my backs to be able to play in running and passing situations.
Harris may be that player and get those hard yards, but I don’t believe his performance is good enough to merit a contract extension.
