After coming within reach of the Super Bowl once again, the Buffalo Bills are expected to retain much of their 2024 roster. However, some difficult personnel decisions loom this offseason, meaning a few familiar names may not return. Among them, a potential surprise cut could be future Hall of Fame pass rusher Von Miller.
Von Miller a Possible Cap Casualty
Miller, an all-time great at his position, will turn 36 in March and carries a hefty $23.8 million cap hit for 2025—the second-highest on the team behind quarterback Josh Allen. With Buffalo currently $11.9 million over the salary cap, according to Spotrac, the team will need to make adjustments to create financial flexibility.
Since signing a six-year, $120 million deal in 2022, Miller has struggled with injuries and consistency, appearing in only 36 of 51 regular-season games. While he has recorded 14 sacks and 17 tackles for loss in that span, his postseason production has been nonexistent, failing to register a sack in five playoff appearances. Paying over $20 million for a situational pass rusher may not be sustainable for a team with Super Bowl aspirations.
If Buffalo releases Miller early in the offseason, they would save $8.3 million against the cap. A post-June 1 designation would be even more beneficial, freeing up $17.4 million. That kind of financial relief could be crucial, especially with general manager Brandon Beane needing to make additional moves, including a potential contract extension for Allen.
Von Miller
Other Possible Surprise Cuts
Miller isn’t the only notable name on the chopping block. Linebacker Matt Milano, cornerback Kaiir Elam, and kicker Tyler Bass are also potential candidates for release:
- Matt Milano – A key defensive leader, Milano has missed significant time over the past two seasons and is now over 30. Cutting him before June 1 would cost the Bills money, but a post-June 1 release would free up $9.6 million.
- Kaiir Elam – The 2022 first-round pick has struggled to find his place in the lineup and was exposed in the AFC Championship Game. While cutting him wouldn’t save money, moving on could improve the team’s secondary depth.
- Tyler Bass – The veteran kicker has been inconsistent, and releasing him before March 16 would save $1.6 million, with a post-June 1 cut freeing up $3.6 million. The Bills could find a lower-cost alternative.
With financial constraints and the need to strengthen the roster, Buffalo may be forced to part ways with some well-known players. While some moves may come as a surprise, they could be necessary to keep the Bills competitive heading into 2025.
