Ex-Bills CB Uses Cryptographic Post to Start Speculation About Return to Buffalo…

Rebuilding their roster for the 2024 NFL season is still a priority for the Buffalo Bills. The Bills general manager, Brandon Beane, was prepared to make a major impact in free agency after letting go of a number of veterans in order to comply with the cap.

Two insider reports stated that the Bills were getting ready to sign Arik Armstead, a former standout player for the San Francisco 49ers. On March 13, The Athletic’s Matt Barrows wrote, “Keep an eye on Buffalo as a possible landing spot,” following the Niners’ formal release of Armstead.

It surprised both fans and observers that the Bills were interested in Armstead. When a player opted to leave San Francisco rather than accept a salary cut on his $85 million contract, Buffalo didn’t appear to have the resources to sign him.

But Dianna Russini of The Athletic wrote on Thursday, March 14, that Armstead is signing with the Bills, according to sources.

Ian Rapoport of NFL Network shot down the report before Bills supporters could rejoice. The Jaguars are getting close to landing a big player to bolster their defense, according to Rapoport’s story. “Sources say they plan to sign former 49ers defensive end Arik Armstead.”

Russini then posted a retraction. “My mistake,” she wrote. “My source with the Bills who was in on Arik Armstead said done deal. Not with Buffalo. Deal is done with the Jaguars.” The fake-out sparked a strong reaction from fans and analysts.