Leonard Floyd had his best season yet with the Buffalo Bills. Buffalo Bills GM Brandon Beane must find a replacement for Floyd, who left for a big new contract in free agency.
At 31, Floyd had a standout season in 2023, getting 10.5 sacks, a pass defended, a forced fumble, and 19 hits on the quarterback. This led to a $20 million deal with the San Francisco 49ers in free agency.
According to a story about potential free agency targets for the Bills, Katherine Fitzgerald of the Buffalo News suggests that the Bills could consider Jadeveon Clowney, a three-time Pro Bowler, as a potential addition to their pass-rushing group to make up for Floyd's departure.
A former top draft pick is seeking a new team.
After a strong season with the Baltimore Ravens, Clowney, who registered 9.5 sacks and 19 hits on the quarterback, is now a free agent. ESPN’s Bill Barnwell pointed out that Clowney's history of injuries may have affected the market demand for him, noting that he signed a one-year deal worth $2.5 million with the Ravens.
Barnwell highlighted that Clowney's injury history and inconsistent performance have prevented him from securing multiyear contracts. After playing with the Texans and being traded to the Seahawks, Clowney has been on one-year deals with the Seahawks, Titans, and Browns.
Bills GM Beane mentioned that they wouldn't be making major moves in free agency due to salary cap limitations, but Clowney could be a feasible option if his salary demands are similar to last season's.
The Bills have made some moves this offseason to enhance their pass rush, including signing veteran Casey Toohill and giving A.J. Epenesa a new deal following a strong season.
If the Bills want to sign Clowney, they might face tough competition.
According to Bleacher Report’s Jordan Schultz
the New York Jets are highly interested in signing Clowney after a recent visit. Additionally, the Miami Dolphins are also a top fit for Clowney, given his previous connection with their defensive coordinator from the Ravens. Alternatively, the Bills could target another experienced player. Fitzgerald of the Buffalo News mentioned that Calais Campbell is available and could bring valuable leadership to the Bills' locker room. Calais Campbell, an experienced player with 16 years in the league, is known for his on-field and off-field impact, and he could be a beneficial presence for the Bills.
The Buffalo Bills might consider adding former top pick Jadeveon Clowney, according to a report from the Buffalo News.
But the Bills could have other targets, including another accomplished veteran. Fitzgerald of the Buffalo News noted that Calais Campbell is still on the open market and could be a good presence in the locker room in Buffalo.
“Calais Campbell (Atlanta) is a veteran with 16 years of experience,” Fitzgerald wrote. “In that time, he’s played in 244 games, piling up 105.5 sacks. He hasn’t said he’s done yet. The 2024 Alan Page Community Award winner, Campbell is a leader on and off the field.”
