In a thrilling “Battle of New York,” the Buffalo Bills outlasted the New York Jets 23-20 on a final drive interception by Aaron Rodgers. This Monday Night Football showdown not only tightened the race in the AFC East but sparked a major shake-up for both teams. The Jets traded for Davante Adams, but the Bills responded with their own blockbuster move, acquiring Amari Cooper from the Cleveland Browns. With the addition of a true WR1 to support Josh Allen, Cooper brings the X-factor Buffalo’s offense has needed since parting with Stefon Diggs.
While the Bills are now 4-2 and looking formidable, the team has weaknesses they must address to sustain their playoff push. First, their offensive line needs reinforcements. Injuries to starters like David Edwards or Connor McGovern could derail their offense, and depth concerns are looming. Enter Daniel Brunskill, a versatile lineman with starting experience at every position along the offensive front. Currently with the Tennessee Titans, Brunskill could be available if Tennessee continues its 1-4 skid. For the Bills, swapping a late-round pick to secure him as a reliable backup could be a smart insurance policy to protect Allen and keep their offense running.
On defense, Buffalo’s needs are equally pressing, especially in the secondary and at linebacker. Giants edge rusher Azeez Ojulari presents an intriguing option as a rotational pass rusher to bolster their defensive line. Ojulari, a former second-round pick, has shown promise with eight sacks in his rookie season but finds himself overshadowed on a Giants team with no clear future plan for him. If Buffalo could snag Ojulari for a conditional draft pick, he would add a dynamic presence on defense, rounding out their pass-rush options and creating a complete, all-in roster for 2024.
Although some fans questioned the logic behind trading Diggs for a second-round pick only to give up more draft capital for Cooper, the Bills’ strategy appears sound. Cooper’s addition resolves Buffalo’s X receiver issue and allows Allen to utilize his full range of passing options. The team’s recent struggles with less effective replacements like Shakir and Hollins have underscored the need for a reliable deep threat, and Cooper is primed to fill that role.
With Cooper poised to make a big impact and Buffalo potentially eyeing moves for Brunskill and Ojulari, the Bills are signaling they’re all-in on this season. Their roster now has the tools to compete, and as the playoffs draw near, this reshuffled lineup could make all the difference in their quest for AFC dominance.
