The primary pass rusher for the Buffalo Bills in the 2023-24 season is openly expressing his willingness to explore other opportunities in the offseason if the team does not meet his desired contract terms in NFL free agency.
Over the past four seasons, Leonard Floyd, the edge rusher, has quietly established himself as one of the league’s most dependable players in pressuring quarterbacks. With 39.5 sacks since 2020, the 31-year-old has achieved two seasons with 10.5 sacks, including the 2023 season.
Given his significant contribution to the Bills’ success, particularly in reaching the Divisional Round of the NFL Playoffs, Floyd aims to secure a lucrative deal during the offseason. While the Bills will likely engage in negotiations to retain Floyd for the upcoming season, it’s expected that he won’t settle for a contract below what his agent deems appropriate in the competitive open market.
Buffalo Bills pass rusher Leonard Floyd looking for the most money possible in 2024 NFL free agency
“I prioritize financial considerations in my decisions. While I’d prefer to stay here, I understand the nature of the business. Ultimately, I’ll go where my agent believes we can secure the best financial offer,” commented Floyd as he cleared out his locker at the team’s facility earlier this week.
With the Buffalo Bills facing a $50 million deficit above the salary cap entering the offseason, the prospects of re-signing Floyd appear grim. Even if the team makes the necessary moves to get under the cap for roster improvements, Floyd is likely to receive offers from pass-rush-needy teams that the Bills may struggle to match.
Floyd, originally the ninth overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft by the Chicago Bears, spent four seasons in Chicago before playing the next three with the Los Angeles Rams, contributing to their 2021 championship team. He joined the Bills earlier this year, signing a one-year, $7 million contract.