The Buffalo Bills are entering a crucial phase of their 2025 campaign, balancing ambition with financial reality. According to updated figures, Buffalo currently has approximately $3.3 million in available cap space, leaving the front office with limited flexibility as trade discussions intensify around bolstering their wide receiver corps.
After parting ways with several veterans in recent offseasons, the Bills are clearly in a transition period — one that demands smart roster management rather than splashy moves. Yet, as quarterback Josh Allen continues to carry the offensive load, the urgency to surround him with consistent pass-catching talent has never been higher.
Here’s a breakdown of the remaining 2025 cap hits for several wide receivers who have emerged as potential trade or acquisition targets:
- Jakobi Meyers — $5.38 million
- The reliable Raiders wideout brings sharp route running and third-down dependability. However, his mid-tier salary may prove slightly too steep unless Buffalo can clear space through a restructured deal or outgoing trade.
- Rashid Shaheed — $2.1 million
- A speed threat from New Orleans, Shaheed fits the Bills’ need for explosiveness downfield. His affordable cap figure makes him one of the most realistic options, particularly if Buffalo seeks to stretch defenses and complement Stefon Diggs’ precision route work.
- Chris Olave — $749,970
- Perhaps the most intriguing name on the list, Olave is still on his rookie deal and has elite potential. His combination of speed, route discipline, and youth would make him a perfect long-term fit — but prying him from the Saints could require a high draft pick and a major commitment.
- A.J. Brown — $585,000
- The Philadelphia star’s prorated 2025 cap figure appears deceptively low due to backloaded bonuses, but his market value and importance to the Eagles make this scenario highly unlikely. Still, Brown’s physicality and chemistry with any elite quarterback would immediately transform Buffalo’s offense.
- Jaylen Waddle — $585,000
- The Dolphins’ dynamic weapon could be a dream addition — but trading within the AFC East would be an uphill battle. His affordable cap number only heightens his value, and Miami would demand a massive return to even consider the offer.
- Brian Thomas Jr. — $480,000
- The rookie standout from LSU has been flashing potential with elite athleticism and a deep-threat profile. His low cap figure and upside make him the most financially logical move, though it remains unclear if the Jaguars are willing to move him this early in his career.
With just $3.3 million in available space, the Bills’ front office — led by GM Brandon Beane — would need to get creative. That could mean restructuring veteran contracts, cutting expendable depth pieces, or exploring player-for-player trades to balance the books.
Analysts suggest that Buffalo’s cap limitations won’t completely rule out a move but will force precision and patience. The Bills’ goal is clear: add a weapon who can immediately impact the passing game without jeopardizing their financial stability for future seasons.
As the trade deadline approaches, all eyes in Buffalo are on Beane and his staff. Whether they choose a proven veteran like Meyers or gamble on a young star such as Olave or Thomas Jr., one thing is certain — the Bills can’t afford to waste another prime year of Josh Allen’s window.
