The Buffalo Bills weren’t able to make the full leap through a folding table with one of their early free agent targets. Washington Commanders running back J.D. McKissic agreed to a two-year deal with the Bills during the legal tampering period. Yet, the offensive weapon got cold feet just hours before a move could become official.
J.D. McKissic goes back to Washington
It’s tough to move on from an established relationship. While the Bills offered McKissic an appealing two-year, $7 million deal at the start of free agency, the running back decided to go back to his would-be ex, the Washington Commanders, and re-sign on a similar deal, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
McKissic will now look to get something going on offense with new QB Carson Wentz, who will officially join the team this week after being traded from the Indianapolis Colts earlier this month. The Commanders are cutting veterans left and right, including safety Landon Collins, guard Ereck Flowers, and defensive tackle Matt Ioannidis, so McKissic might need to step up as a leader this season. The 5-foot-10 and 195-pound running back is entering his seventh season in the NFL.
McKissic is one of the best pass-catching backs in the league. He caught 123 passes for 986 yards and 4 touchdowns during his first two seasons with Washington.
Who can the Bills sign to make up for McKissic’s last-minute turn?
Philadelphia Eagles running back Boston Scott was supposed to become a restricted free agent this week. However, the team decided against tendering him, and now he will be free to sign anywhere on Wednesday. Scott, like McKissic, is an excellent pass catcher out of the backfield and plays particularly well on screens. He is coming off a season with 456 total yards and 7 touchdowns.
Former Kansas City Chiefs running back Darrel Williams could also be an option to pair with Devin Singletary. Ex-New York Giants running back Devontae Booker could also appeal as a 1-2 punch with Singletary.