Nyheim Hines, a seasoned running back who was sidelined by injuries for the whole 2023 season, is expected to leave the Bills. ESPN’s Adam Schefter said that Buffalo plans to release Hines this week.
Hines is anticipated to fully recover in time for training camp this summer, having sustained a ruptured ACL in a jet ski accident in July of last year. Even while his speedy recovery could raise his market value a little, missing a season would probably make it more difficult for him to land a big contract with a new team.
The Bills would save a maximum of $4.66 million by releasing Hines, with only $500,000 left over as dead money. The Bills, who started the season almost $41 million over the league salary cap, are supposed to benefit from the move. Hines’s contract is up in a year, but he’s going to be an early free agent.
The 27-year-old Hines, who was acquired from the Colts in a deal during the 2022 trade deadline, was mostly used by Buffalo as a kick returner and saw little action on offensive plays. Even though he played this role and scored two touchdowns, his status on the roster remained precarious even before his injury.
Latavius Murray, Ty Johnson, and Damien Harris are already stacked in the Bills’ running back room thanks to James Cook’s outstanding play as the team’s lead back and Pro Bowl participant. Furthermore, throughout the season, other players assumed control of the returning responsibilities, suggesting a similar approach moving forward.
Hines faces fierce competition in a market full of well-known running backs as he concentrates on his recuperation and approaching free agency. Nevertheless, as a return specialist, his adaptability and pass-catching skills can allow him a chance to earn a seat on the team and establish a career for himself. However, as the new league year draws near on March 13, Buffalo might need to take additional action to lessen its budgetary restraints.
ALSO READ: Government Mulls Ban on MPs’ Engagement with Pro-Palestine and Climate Protesters