Buffalo Bills Free Agency Decisions: The Toughest Calls for 2025
Jakob Merkel
Buffalo Bills WR, Mack Hollins Buffalo Bills Free Agency Decisions: The Toughest Calls for 2025 - The Wandering Buffalo
The Buffalo Bills have some big decisions to make this offseason. Several key players are hitting free agency, and while some seem like easy re-signs, others may have already played their last snap in Buffalo.
Let’s take a deep dive into the most notable names and whether they should stay or go.
When Buffalo traded for Amari Cooper, it was a move meant to bolster the passing game. But now, the future seems uncertain.
Cooper, a five-time Pro Bowler, showed flashes of brilliance early in the season. However, after suffering a wrist injury, his production took a nosedive. Despite doctors advising surgery, he played through it—but the numbers weren’t there when the team needed them most.
Here’s why his return is unlikely:
• He turns 31 before next season, making him a tough investment for a long-term deal.
• His four-year, $100 million contract is expiring, and he won’t come cheap.
• The Bills need cap space and might look for younger, more cost-effective receiving options.
Unless Cooper takes a significant pay cut, his time in Buffalo is probably over.
Damar Hamlin – Strong Chance to Stay
Few stories in the NFL are as inspiring as Damar Hamlin’s. And in 2024, he proved he’s more than just a great comeback story—he’s a legit player.
Hamlin put up 62 solo tackles, grabbed two interceptions, and had five pass deflections. Not bad for a former sixth-round pick.
Buffalo’s safety room is in flux, and Hamlin has outperformed expectations. He’s a solid player at a position that won’t break the bank, making him a strong candidate for a contract extension.
If the Bills let him walk, they’ll be banking on younger, unproven options—a risk that could haunt them in 2025.
When the Bills traded for Rasul Douglas, he quickly became a fan favorite. His ball-hawking skills and leadership were a perfect fit for Buffalo’s defense.
But 2024 told a different story. Douglas wasn’t the same lockdown corner fans had come to expect. Age and declining play might push Buffalo to look elsewhere.
Beane has shown a preference for getting younger at key positions. Given Douglas’s performance dip and the team’s defensive philosophy, this could be his last season in a Bills uniform.
Mack Hollins – No-Brainer Extension?
Mack Hollins isn’t a superstar, but he’s the kind of player every team needs.
• A high-end role player with value in both the offense and special teams.
• A respected locker room presence and “vibes” guy.
• Led all Bills WRs in touchdowns with 5 during the 2024-2025 season.
• Played all 17 games, proving his durability.
Given his impact and reasonable price tag, Hollins seems like a near-lock to return.
Final Thoughts
The Bills are entering an offseason filled with tough choices. Players like Cooper and Douglas might be on their way out, while Hamlin and Hollins could be key pieces moving forward.
Buffalo’s front office has to navigate cap space, player performance, and future potential. Will they make the right calls?