Bills Intend to Part Ways With Seasoned Running Back in Financial Decision Worth $4.6 Million: Insider
According to an insider report, the Buffalo Bills are gearing up to alleviate their salary cap constraints by parting ways with veteran running back Nyheim Hines, a move anticipated to provide a relief of approximately $4.6 million.
As per ESPN’s Adam Schefter on March 3, the Bills are set to release Hines later in the week. Hines, known for his versatility as a running back and kick return specialist, sat out the entire 2023 season due to an ACL tear sustained in an offseason boating incident. Despite his absence, Hines had expressed a desire to return to the team for the upcoming season.
The decision to release Hines leaves the Bills with a depleted backfield, prompting speculation that they may seek to bolster their ranks with another seasoned player through free agency.
The Bills have been diligently addressing their cap deficit, which exceeded $40 million as the new league year approached. In addition to the anticipated release of Hines, the team recently restructured offensive lineman Connor McGovern’s contract, generating approximately $3.7 million in cap space.
Following his injury in July, Hines’ future with the Bills had been uncertain. His agent, Ed Wasielewski, made a pointed post on social media, suggesting potential friction in negotiations regarding Hines’ salary following the injury. However, Hines himself expressed his desire to return to the Bills for the 2024 season later in the year, commending the team for their treatment and support during his recovery.
Despite his absence in 2023, Hines left a lasting impact with the Bills, notably delivering a standout performance in the final game of the 2022 season by returning two kickoffs for touchdowns in a poignant victory over the New England Patriots. This emotional game occurred shortly after teammate Damar Hamlin’s on-field collapse, further highlighting Hines’ significance to the team.
