Bills $21 Million CB’s sends Cryptic 2-Word Message that Raises Eyebrows
To prepare for the 2024 NFL season, Buffalo Bills are implementing a significant overhaul in their roster. While focusing on cutting six experienced players, general manager Brandon Beane has also revamped cornerback Rasul Douglas’ deal by restructuring it.
On March 6, Adam Schefter of ESPN announced that Buffalo would be saving “about $2.5 million more against their cap” by restructuring Douglas’ contract. As a result of this restructure, it was speculated that he would continue to play for the team in 2024.
Shortly after the NFL’s legal tampering period began on March 11th, the cornerback made a cryptic post. He shared “Decisions decisions” on X, previously known as Twitter.
As soon as the 29-year-old made his post, it caused worry among followers. One supporter requested him to remain in Buffalo stating, “We require your presence”. Another individual shared their concern about Beane’s actions by posting “Dude what is going on with Beane?”. Meanwhile, Packers enthusiasts hoped for a possible comeback of the experienced player to Green Bay. Nonetheless, there’s also a possibility that he was just commenting on the extensive movement currently happening within NFL.
Buffalo acquired Douglas in a trade with the Green Bay Packers as an imperative acquisition following their loss of All-Pro Tre’Davious White (due to Achilles injury) for the season. The transaction involved Buffalo exchanging a 2024 third-round pick for Douglas and also getting a 2024 fifth-round pick from Green Bay.
Douglas has reached the concluding year of his $21 million deal with the Packers, which spanned three years.
Following his arrival in Buffalo, he exhibited great productivity. Throughout 9 games, he accumulated a total of 29 tackles while also managing to record 4 interceptions, defensing against passes on eight occasions and recovering two fumbles. Unfortunately for Douglas though, an injury (knee related) occurred during the Bills’ regular season finale which caused him some trouble. Despite this setback however, he still managed to achieve much success as demonstrated by registering one forced fumble alongside two total tackles throughout just one playoff game played thereafter.
At the NFL Scouting Combine, Beane spoke with reporters about extending Douglas. The justification for spreading out his cap hit of $7.53 million by signing him to an extension seemed reasonable given that he was a former third-round pick.
According to Beane, “He has clearly done some great things for us. Although we are exploring various options at the moment and have yet to come up with a decision. Nevertheless, we truly appreciated getting acquainted with him and his contributions towards our defense.”
Releasing or trading Douglas before the 2024 season would come as a major shock, particularly given the recent release of White by the Bills. Prior to playoffs, Beane had heaped praise on this West Virginia graduate.
“He has an intuitive sense of the game’s strategy and objectives,” Beane stated to The Buffalo News in January.
Many people possess the same attribute, but lack proficiency in handling a ball. However, he stands out with his remarkable ability to handle it skillfully and has manifested this talent through significant turnovers leading our offense towards scoring positions; even going as far as personally securing points against the Patriots.
Douglas had a concise response after the Bills released six of his fellow players last week. “Wow,” he wrote, indicating that next season’s defense will undergo significant changes.
The Bills bid farewell to cornerback Siran Neal and safety Jordan Poyer besides releasing White. Micah Hyde, a seasoned safety, is currently deliberating his retirement options as he becomes a free agent.
Schefter reported on Monday afternoon that the Bills are bringing back at least one pending free agent, as cornerback Cam Lewis is set to re-sign with the team for $4 million over a two-year period.
As the 2024 season approaches, it is expected that Douglas will secure his place as the starting cornerback alongside Dane Jackson. He expressed great contentment with being a part of Buffalo after intercepting a pass and scoring against the Patriots on December 31st, stating “I adore it here.” The supportive environment provided by experienced players helps him remain focused and motivated to perform at his best.
