The Buffalo Bills will start the 2024 season with significant changes in their secondary following the departure of three of their longest-serving players.
Tre’Davious White has been released by the Bills, while safeties Jordan Poyer and Micah Hyde were not re-signed. There remains a possibility that Hyde might return, but according to Bleacher Report’s Matt Holder, the Bills could target another experienced player to bolster their secondary.
In a piece analyzing the Bills’ offseason priorities, Holder suggested that the team might pursue free agent Justin Simmons to strengthen their safety corps.
“During free agency, the Buffalo Bills released Jordan Poyer and Micah Hyde, creating a gap in their defense,” Holder wrote. “While Taylor Rapp, Mike Edwards, or rookie Cole Bishop are expected to step up as reliable starters this season, exploring available free agents like Justin Simmons before training camp could be beneficial.”
The Bills released these veterans as part of a series of moves aimed at saving salary cap space, which also included letting go of veteran center Mitch Morse. These moves freed up nearly $35 million but also left a leadership void in the secondary.
Simmons could potentially fill this gap. He became available after the Denver Broncos released him in March to cut costs, despite his consistent performance. The two-time Pro Bowl safety indicated that he was taking time to assess his options and spend time with his family.
“As one chapter closes, another will open, and that’ll happen sometime in the future,” Simmons told 9News reporter Mike Klis on June 1. “I’m staying patient, trusting in the Lord’s plan for my family and our next steps.”
Simmons had a strong 2023 season, tallying 70 tackles, three interceptions, and eight passes defended.
The Bills have a history of making impactful late additions to their roster, such as signing edge rusher Leonard Floyd last June, who ended up leading the team in sacks.
Meanwhile, Micah Hyde has not yet decided on his future, contemplating retirement but expressing openness to returning for another season in Buffalo.
“At this point, I haven’t made a decision yet. I’m focused on spending quality time with my family,” Hyde said at his charity softball game in Buffalo, as reported by Jay Skurski of the Buffalo News.
“I’ve been transparent with everyone. I took some time off after the season, spent time in San Diego, and now my days are filled with workouts, family activities, and preparing myself both physically and mentally for whatever may come next.”
