Buffalo Bills Offseason: 4 Bold Trade Targets That Could Spark a Super Bowl Run
The winds of change are blowing through Orchard Park, and they’re not just lake-effect. After parting ways with longtime head coach Sean McDermott, the Buffalo Bills are making it clear: they’re not here to rebuild - they’re here to reload.
With Joe Brady now officially steering the ship as head coach, and a revamped coaching staff that includes Jim Leonhard (defensive coordinator), Pete Carmichael Jr. (offensive coordinator), and Jeff Rodgers (special teams), the Bills are laying the groundwork for a new era. But coaching changes alone won’t get this team over the hump. If Buffalo wants to stay in the AFC’s elite tier and finally break through to a Super Bowl, General Manager Brandon Beane has to swing big - and soon.
The Bills have needs on both sides of the ball, and while the draft will be important, this offseason feels like the moment to make a splash via trade. Here are four names that could dramatically reshape the roster - and the team’s championship odds.
1. Maxx Crosby, EDGE - Las Vegas Raiders
Let’s talk about one of the most relentless pass rushers in the game. Maxx Crosby is a nightmare off the edge - a high-motor, high-production player who would instantly become the best pass rusher Buffalo’s had in a decade. And yes, that includes Von Miller, whose peak years were already in the rearview mirror when he arrived in Western New York.
Crosby’s 10 sacks in what was considered a “down year” would’ve led the Bills by a wide margin. At just 28 years old, he’s still in his prime, and with the Raiders reportedly heading into a full rebuild, this could be the perfect opportunity for Beane to strike.
Plug Crosby into Jim Leonhard’s new-look 3-4 defense as an outside linebacker, and suddenly Buffalo’s front seven looks a whole lot scarier. The Bills have been searching for that game-changing edge presence for years. Crosby is that guy - and then some.
2. A.J. Brown, WR - Philadelphia Eagles
Buffalo’s passing game has been a paradox. Statistically strong, but at times visibly disjointed - especially when it came to separating from defenders and making plays downfield.
If the Bills want to give Josh Allen a true alpha receiver to pair with or possibly succeed Stefon Diggs, A.J. Brown fits the bill.
Even in a season filled with sideline frustrations and cryptic social media posts, Brown still racked up 78 catches, 1,003 yards, and seven touchdowns. That’s production most teams would kill for - and it was considered a down year. His blend of size, speed, and yards-after-catch ability is tailor-made for Joe Brady’s offense, which leans on quick reads and short-yardage efficiency before striking deep.
Yes, a move like this would cost significant draft capital. But if the goal is to win in the next two years, not three or four, this is the kind of bold swing that could elevate Allen back into MVP form - without forcing him to play superhero every week.
3. Jermaine Johnson, EDGE - New York Jets
Here’s a name that might fly under the radar but could pay massive dividends. Jermaine Johnson has battled injuries the past two seasons - an Achilles in 2024 and ankle issues in 2025 - but when healthy, he’s shown flashes of elite upside.
Back in 2023, Johnson recorded 7.5 sacks and 16 pressures, showcasing the kind of explosiveness that defensive coordinators covet. In a 3-4 scheme, he could thrive as a stand-up rusher, using his burst and bend to collapse pockets and disrupt timing.
The Jets are in the midst of a rebuild and could be open to moving Johnson for the right package. For the Bills, this would be a calculated gamble - a chance to land a high-ceiling pass rusher without giving up a king’s ransom. If Johnson stays healthy, he could be a cornerstone piece in Buffalo’s front seven for years to come.
4. Brian Thomas Jr., WR - Jacksonville Jaguars
Thomas looked like the next breakout star after a dazzling rookie campaign - 87 catches, 1,282 yards, and 10 touchdowns. But Year 2 didn’t go as planned. Drops, reduced targets, and a crowded receiver room led to a sophomore slump: 48 catches, 707 yards, and just two scores.
Still, the talent is undeniable. Thomas is young, explosive, and on a rookie contract - which makes him an intriguing long-term asset. With Travis Hunter returning from injury and other pass catchers emerging in Jacksonville, the Jaguars might be willing to listen to offers.
For the Bills, this is a chance to bet on upside. Thomas wouldn’t just be a weapon for Allen - he’d be a developmental piece who could grow into a WR1 role over time. He’s got the tools, and pairing him with Allen could unlock a whole new level of production.
Why the Time to Strike Is Now
The Bills have been knocking on the door for years. But with the AFC as stacked as ever, standing pat and hoping for a breakout from a rookie or mid-tier free agent just won’t cut it. This is a team built to win now, and that means using every available asset - including high draft picks - to bring in proven difference-makers.
Whether it’s a dominant edge rusher like Maxx Crosby, a true No. 1 wideout like A.J. Brown, or high-upside options like Jermaine Johnson and Brian Thomas Jr., the Bills have a chance to reshape their roster in a big way.
Brandon Beane has pulled off bold moves before. If he wants to silence the doubters and bring a Lombardi Trophy to Buffalo, this offseason might be his most important yet.