Former Buffalo Bills wide receiver may make a comeback after being unexpectedly released by the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Although Buffalo Bills’ general manager Brandon Beane had no intention of making a significant trade in free agency, he could acquire an acquaintance at a reduced cost.
Just five days after adding Brian Thomas Jr. to their lineup through the draft, the Jacksonville Jaguars have released wide receiver Zay Jones. Although he has a final year left in his $24 million three-year contract, at 29 years old and positioned fourth on the depth chart, Jones was let go by Jacksonville as they slashed $4.18 million from their cap space while taking up $6.56 millionaire’s worth of dead money for this move alone.
On Tuesday, April 30th, Nick Wojton from USA Today suggested that due to his ties with the Bills organization, there is a chance he may be recruited as an addition to Buffalo’s roster of receivers. During this year’s NFL draft session, only one receiver – Keon Coleman through a second-round pick – was chosen by the Bills.
Jones was drafted by the Bills in the second round of 2017 NFL draft after they traded up. Despite being an alumnus of East Carolina, he could not shine during his debut season and ended up facing legal charges due to a hotel incident that took place off-season. Nonetheless, Jones bounced back impressively with Josh Allen taking charge as quarterback for Buffalo. In 2018 alone, he managed to amass impressive numbers such as recording seven touchdowns along with registering a total of 56 receptions for over six hundred fifty yards throughout the year.
In October 2019, Buffalo traded Jones to the Oakland/Las Vegas Raiders in exchange for a fifth-round pick scheduled for 2021. Following his three-year tenure with Buffalo, Jones made his way over to Jacksonville.
In the last couple of seasons, he managed to tally up 116 catches for a total of 1,144 yards and seven touchdowns in just twenty-five games. His presence was greatly missed during eight matches in the previous season as he suffered from knee and hamstring injuries. According to The Associated Press, there were allegations of domestic violence that ultimately did not result in charges being pressed against him.
After the release of Tre’Davious White, clearing $10.2 million, it is possible that the Bills may sign Zay Jones.
Following Stefon Diggs’ trade to the Houston Texans and Gabe Davis’ departure in free agency, it was anticipated that the Bills would choose a pair of wide receivers during the NFL draft.
Buffalo is considering adding another seasoned player, despite Coleman being slated as their new X-receiver. The Bills could potentially pursue Jones once they have the $10.2 million cleared from Tre’Davious White’s release on June 1st. According to Joe Buscaglia of The Athletic, Beane is expected to actively engage in free agency during its second phase.
Buscaglia predicted that the Bills would engage in discussions to acquire a seasoned player who can offer immediate assistance by 2024, perhaps through a one-year contract. Jones had previously suggested that free agents Odell Beckham Jr. and Tyler Boyd were among the best prospects on offer prior to his departure.
Although Beckham may not be in his prime anymore, he could still bring fresh talent to the receiving group and provide downfield ability that an experienced veteran lacks. He would likely compete for the starting position as a Z receiver. In contrast, Boyd might lack the flashy appeal of someone like Beckham, but during his tenure with the Cincinnati Bengals he proved himself to be a trustworthy slot receiver. Therefore, choosing Boyd as a more budget-friendly option would make practical sense.
Zay Jones Scored a Touchdown in Buffalo’s Loss to Jacksonville Last Season
In the Jaguars’ victory over the Bills on October 8, Jones scored a touchdown and caught three passes for 23 yards. Unfortunately, he sustained an injury to his knee during the game’s third quarter which forced him out of action. Due to assorted injuries across several games throughout the season, Jones was unavailable for half of it overall.
After sitting out for some time, Jones made a comeback in Week 18 and managed to receive nine targets. He caught six of them, covering only 49 yards while playing against the Titans. However, despite his efforts throughout the game Jacksonville lost by eight points (28-20), thus being eliminated from playoffs contention.
Jones expressed both frustration and gratitude after the game, stating that they did not end on a satisfactory note or achieve their goals, but acknowledging the privilege of being in their current position. The Florida Times-Union reported his comments.
Jones revealed to the outlet that patience was the primary teaching for him after undergoing a tumultuous season. He stated, “Not being able to control everything can also be empowering. Surrendering and exhibiting confidence require great strength.” Jones added, “In the end, it is crucial to have faith in oneself and trust that things will ultimately fall into place.”
No matter what changes may arise or whatever unforeseen events occur, my focus remains on the future and all that it holds. During this offseason, I plan to carry these valuable lessons with me as a means of enhancing myself in every possible way; be it as a leader, team player, or simply as someone’s brother.
