Andrew Buller-Russ
Wide receiver has been a controversial position for the Buffalo Bills in recent seasons, really ever since they moved on from Stefon Diggs. While the team is still a strong annual playoff contender as long as they have Josh Allen, some can’t help but wonder if the team would experience more postseason success with improved playmakers to help their MVP quarterback.
The Bills did make one potentially impactful move by trading the 60th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft to the Bears in exchange for DJ Moore, plus the 165th overall pick. But is that enough?
It turns out, Buffalo may not be done.
According to Bills general manager Brandon Beane, the team has already spoken to former Buffalo receiver (now free agent) Brandin Cooks.
He’s an extremely accomplished receiver with a whopping six 1,000-yard receiving seasons to his name. Yet, Cooks is also set to turn 33 when the season gets underway. He also hasn’t had a 1,000-yard season since 2021.
Cooks spent five games with the Bills last season, but he only wound up producing five receptions for 114 yards on 11 targets. Perhaps another season in first-year head coach Joe Brady’s system can help Cooks become a more impactful contributor in Buffalo. Yet, history suggests he’s not the playmaking solution Buffalo has been looking for.
Still, that doesn’t mean he can’t help the Bills in a complementary role to their top receivers. Plus, he certainly won’t break the bank as a free agent who hasn’t topped 279 yards since 2023. In other words, while it never hurts to give him a chance to impress, the Bills may be better off giving that opportunity to a younger receiver with more long-term upside than one who’s best days are long gone.
Related: 2026 NFL Mock Draft: End of March Edition
