Bills Face More Big Decisions

The Buffalo Bills have decided not to tender veteran tight end Quintin Morris, meaning they will not offer him a contract at his restricted free agent price of $3.26 million. NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport reported on X that while the Bills will not bring Morris back at this price, they may still be interested in re-signing him for the 2025 season, but at a lower cost.

Morris, who has shown his value as both a pass catcher and a blocker, started three games for the Bills last season. Although he has not been a primary target in the passing game, his versatility in the tight end position made him a reliable option for Buffalo. His ability to contribute in both the run and pass game gives him value, especially as a depth player on the roster.

By electing not to tender Morris, the Bills are freeing up cap space, which may be used to target other needs during the offseason. However, Rapoport mentioned that the team still wants to bring Morris back, suggesting that a renegotiated contract could be on the table if both sides can agree on terms.

Morris joined the Bills as an undrafted free agent in 2021 and has since become a key part of their tight end rotation. Despite not being a standout player, his blocking ability and occasional receiving contributions have made him a dependable asset to the offense.

The decision to not tender Morris may reflect the Bills’ need to be strategic with their cap space, particularly with a crowded free-agent market and potential roster moves on the horizon. If they do manage to bring him back, Morris could continue to provide depth at the tight end position, helping the Bills maintain a balanced offensive attack.

For now, it remains to be seen if Morris will agree to a new deal with the Bills or if he will explore opportunities with other teams. Regardless, the tight end’s future with Buffalo appears uncertain, but there’s still a possibility of his return if the financial terms align.

Quintin Morris Played Important Role Last Season

Quintin Morris may have been lower on the tight end depth chart for the Buffalo Bills, behind the likes of Dalton Kincaid and Dawson Knox, but he still played a significant role in multiple aspects of the game last season. Despite not being a primary target in the passing game, the 26-year-old tight end made his presence felt in both offensive and special teams situations.

Morris has been a consistent contributor since joining the Bills, with at least one touchdown reception in each of his three seasons with the team. While he may not have been featured heavily in the offense, his reliability in the red zone and ability to make key catches when called upon added value to the team’s overall strategy.

In addition to his offensive contributions, Morris has proven himself to be a key special teams player. He consistently appeared in at least 75% of the special teams snaps during each of his seasons with Buffalo. On special teams, Morris made seven tackles, forced one fumble, and recovered two fumbles, demonstrating his grit and ability to make crucial plays in important situations. His defensive contributions on special teams made him a valuable asset beyond just his role on offense.

While Morris may not have been a marquee player in terms of statistics, his versatility as a blocker, receiver, and special teams contributor made him a dependable option for the Bills. His ability to fill multiple roles, especially in a backup capacity, highlighted his importance to the team’s overall success.

Now, with the Bills opting not to tender him at his restricted free agent price, there’s uncertainty about whether Morris will remain with the team. However, his all-around contributions and leadership on special teams could make him a player the Bills consider bringing back on a restructured contract, as they look to balance their roster and cap space for the upcoming season.

The Buffalo Bills’ decision not to tender Quintin Morris was primarily a financial one, as SI.com’s Ralph Ventre pointed out. The lowest restricted free agent (RFA) tender for Morris would have been set at $3.26 million, which is a considerable amount for a backup player, especially given the team’s salary cap constraints. The Bills, while potentially interested in bringing Morris back, are simply not willing to allocate that much cap space for him in 2025, leading them to choose the more cost-effective option.

This decision reflects the tough financial situation the Bills find themselves in as they look to balance their roster and cap space. As Ventre noted, while Buffalo may want to retain Morris, they will likely explore options that keep the cost lower than his current RFA tender price. Morris’ contributions, particularly on special teams, made him a valuable depth piece for the team, but financial flexibility appears to be the priority as they move forward into the offseason.

Looking ahead, the Bills face several important decisions in free agency, including potential moves involving key players on both sides of the ball. Wide receiver Mack Hollins, who has been a consistent deep threat for quarterback Josh Allen, is coming to the end of his one-year contract. Hollins led the team in touchdown receptions with five and also played a crucial role on special teams as the gunner on the punt team. His impact on both offense and special teams makes him a valuable asset, but Buffalo will need to decide whether he fits into their future plans at the right price.

Another key player set to hit free agency is safety Damar Hamlin, who started 14 games in 2024 after making a remarkable recovery from a cardiac arrest suffered during a January 2023 game. Hamlin’s return to form was slow, and while he played a more prominent role last season, the Bills will need to assess his long-term potential and his value as they look to strengthen their roster.

On defense, Von Miller’s future with the team is also uncertain, despite having two more years remaining on his contract. After suffering a torn ACL in 2022, Miller has struggled to regain his previous form, registering only 6.0 sacks in 2024 and none the previous season. His contract, which currently includes a $17.5 million salary, is a significant factor in the Bills’ decision-making. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported that Buffalo’s front office is weighing the possibility of releasing Miller to free up cap space, with a decision expected to be a “50-50” proposition.

In order to keep Miller on the roster, the Bills would need to negotiate a pay cut, something that may be difficult given Miller’s stature as a veteran edge rusher. However, if he’s willing to accept a reduced contract, Miller could remain a part of the team’s defensive plans. The Bills’ financial flexibility and their ability to manage the salary cap will ultimately determine how they handle these key decisions as they move toward the 2025 season.