Just over a year ago, the Buffalo Bills took a big swing on wide receiver Joshua Palmer, inking him to a three-year, $29 million contract. In a few weeks, they’ll have an opportunity to get out from under a deal that is looking like a mistake.
Palmer had a few bright moments in the Bills’ offense last season, but he wasn’t the dependable complementary receiver he had previously been for the Los Angeles Chargers. He produced a career-low 303 receiving yards, though it’s worth noting that he was also limited to 12 games.
The 26-year-old battled an ankle injury for much of the season and was eventually placed on injured reserve.
Since the start of the offseason, Buffalo has signed Trent Sherfield, traded for D.J. Moore, and drafted Skyler Bell. That alone might not be enough to justify pulling the plug on Palmer, but his contract plays a part.
Palmer is set to carry a cap hit of $11.8 million this season. The Bills can save $5.4 million by trading him now and $10.2 million by trading him after June 1.
Brown and Aiyuk may both have to be dealt before Palmer draws considerable interest, but he’ll be a solid option for receiver-needy teams once the dust settles.
Potential Suitors: Kansas City Chiefs, Las Vegas Raiders