The Buffalo Bills gave a new contract extension for cornerback Christian Benford, but that may spell the end for this All-Pro Linebacker. According to the breaking news, the Bills are giving one of the best secondary pieces in the league a new four-year deal, which will likely come at the expense of Linebacker Matt Milano, who took a pay cut this offseason. It’s clear that the Bills are trying to replace Milano, but he will likely want to use this upcoming season to increase his chances of a legitimate free-agent market next year or stay with the team and hope for a new contract. Originally selected in the fifth round of the 2017 NFL Draft, the former Boston College product became one of the best edge rushers after having a phenomenal campaign in 2022.
Milano hasn’t been able to stay on the field the past two seasons after that, but there is some progression to him becoming healthy again. Head Coach Sean McDermott appreciates that he doesn’t need to rehab or need another surgery. However, it doesn’t mean the future is safe for Milano even though he wants to stay in Buffalo, so it’s easier to put on a show next season so he could attract suitors on the market. Benford wasn’t the only athlete that got a new deal, but Josh Allen, Terrell Bernard, Khalil Shakir and Gregory Rosseau.
The Bills probably won’t gain interest if they put Milano on the trade block, so they will probably let him walk next free agency, depending on how things go this season.
Breaking: Christian Benford Contract Extension Likely Spells End for All-Pro Matt Milano
Possible Next Teams
Los Angeles Chargers
Khalil Mack is returning for what could be his final season in the league. After releasing Joey Bosa, they need a linebacker who can be a healthy, dependable scratch. Milano might be a replica of Bosa, but it gives Jim Harbaugh some common ground of getting the hard-nosed old-school out of him, which may work well in Los Angeles’s philosophy.
Baltimore Ravens
Last season, the Ravens didn’t have the same defense since losing Jadeveon Clowney and Geno Stone. Trenton Simpson hasn’t been able to fill large shoes in Clowney’s absence, which has been a burden for Roquan Smith and Kyle Van Noy. Milano hasn’t been healthy, but if he can, he will probably be able to make an impact.
Washington Commanders
If anyone loves to play a blitz defense, it’s the Washington Commanders. Frankie Luvu is a perfect representation of that, and since Bobby Wagner will probably retire after this season, Milano could be a solid replacement. Washington hasn’t had a modern-day Ryan Kerrigan, but they could get that out of Milano.
Carolina Panthers
Last season, the Panthers built a solid offense for quarterback Bryce Young, but they’re making moves to improve their defense. Tershawn Wharton is the most notable free-agent signing for the Panthers that will finally give some life to Derrick Brown in the defensive trenches. However, they need a new edge rusher since Jadeveon Clowney could retire soon, and Josey Jewell hasn’t been living up to expectations. Milano might not be the same, but it’s a band-aid until they find long-term stability elsewhere.
Kansas City Chiefs
This might be a nightmare for the Buffalo Bills, but the Linebacker has the characteristics to make an impact in the Chiefs’ defense. Nick Bolton got a new deal, but he will eventually need help since Drue Tranquill and Leo Chenal probably won’t give him much relief. As long as Milano stays healthy, he could be a worthy rotating edge rusher the Chiefs could use to play blitz.