The Buffalo Bills have stunned fans with rumors of potentially cutting tight end Dawson Knox, a beloved player who has been with the team for six seasons. The speculation has sparked heated discussions among the fanbase, particularly as Knox has been an integral part of the Bills’ offensive scheme, sharing a close connection with quarterback Josh Allen. This article delves into the context of the rumor, Knox’s role with the team, and the factors that could influence this shocking decision.
Dawson Knox – A Six-Year Journey with the Bills
Dawson Knox, born on November 14, 1996, joined the Buffalo Bills after being selected in the third round (96th overall) of the 2019 NFL Draft from the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss). Starting as a relatively under-the-radar prospect, Knox quickly established himself in the Bills’ lineup with his receiving skills and versatility in offensive situations. The 2021 season marked a breakout year, as he recorded 9 touchdowns, becoming one of the NFL’s top tight ends and setting a franchise record for the most receiving touchdowns in a single season by a Bills tight end.
Over his tenure with the Bills, Knox has recorded 181 receptions for 2,152 yards and 22 touchdowns. Known not only for his receiving prowess but also for his reliable blocking, Knox has been a key contributor to the success of the Bills’ running game and quarterback protection. In 2022, the Bills demonstrated their confidence in Knox by signing him to a four-year, $53.6 million contract extension, making him one of the highest-paid tight ends in the NFL at the time. However, the emergence of rumors about his potential release has raised questions about his future in Buffalo.
Context of the Release Rumor
According to a report from Athlon Sports, the rumor of the Bills potentially cutting Dawson Knox stems from financial pressures related to the team’s salary cap in the 2025 season. With a cap hit of $14.6 million in 2025, Knox has been identified as a potential candidate for release to alleviate cap constraints. The emergence of rookie tight end Dalton Kincaid, selected in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft, has further shifted Knox’s role within the team.
Kincaid, with his pass-catching prowess and ability to gain yards after the catch, has quickly become a favorite target for Josh Allen. In the 2024 season, Knox led the Bills’ tight ends in snap count but saw a significant drop in receiving production compared to previous years. He recorded just 22 receptions for 186 yards and 2 touchdowns in 12 games in 2023, partly due to a wrist injury and Kincaid’s rise. This led some analysts, such as Yahoo!’s Frankie Schwab, to include Knox on lists of players likely to be cut to save cap space.
However, head coach Sean McDermott has defended Knox, emphasizing his leadership and contributions in the locker room. McDermott stated, “Dawson is a critical part of our success, not just through his play but also through his leadership.” Knox has also earned high praise from Josh Allen for his consistency and reliability, particularly in critical red-zone situations.
Fan Reaction and Impact
The Buffalo Bills’ fanbase, known as the “Bills Mafia,” has expressed disappointment and concern over the rumor. Knox is not only a talented player but also a beloved figure for his off-field contributions. Following the tragic loss of his brother Luke in 2022, Knox received overwhelming support from the Buffalo community, and he reciprocated by actively engaging in charitable efforts, notably through the P.U.N.T. Pediatric Cancer Collaborative. Fans donated nearly $95,000 in just 24 hours to support the organization, highlighting the deep bond between Knox and the city of Buffalo.
Releasing Knox could provide financial relief, saving the Bills approximately $7-8 million in cap space, but it comes with risks. Knox is a versatile player, offering superior blocking skills compared to Kincaid, and his presence allows the Bills to effectively utilize two-tight-end sets. Losing Knox could disrupt the balance of the offensive scheme, especially as the Bills compete fiercely in the AFC East and aim for a Super Bowl.
Dawson Knox’s Future
Despite the unsettling rumor, many sources suggest that Knox is likely to remain with Buffalo, at least for the 2025 season. Proposed solutions include restructuring his contract to lower his cap hit, similar to what the Bills did in 2024 when they reduced Knox’s cap hit from $14.4 million. This approach would allow the team to retain Knox while maintaining stability in the locker room, where he is regarded as a key leader.
Additionally, Knox’s relationship with Josh Allen is a significant factor. Allen has described Knox as “one of the most beloved guys in the locker room” and emphasized his complete trust in him during critical plays. With a quarterback like Allen, who wields considerable influence over the team’s strategy, his opinion could play a pivotal role in keeping Knox in Buffalo.
Conclusion
The decision regarding Dawson Knox’s future remains uncertain, but his importance to the Buffalo Bills is undeniable. While the rumor of his release may be shocking, Knox’s contributions both on and off the field make him a valuable asset that is difficult to replace. With the support of fans, coaches, and teammates, Knox may continue to write his story in Buffalo, helping the Bills inch closer to their Super Bowl aspirations.