The Buffalo Bills made the unexpected decision to release several key veterans before the start of free agency. Among them, there’s uncertainty surrounding the future of safety Micah Hyde, who has been with the team for seven seasons.
Hyde is now a free agent after his two-year, $19.25 million contract expired at the end of the 2023 NFL season. While the 33-year-old may be considering retirement, he hasn’t given up on hosting his annual charity softball game.
Announcing the news on his Instagram Stories on Wednesday, April 17, the veteran fan-favorite expressed his gratitude to Bills Mafia, emphasizing the significance of the community to him and his family.
This is so awesome!! Once a Bill always a Bill! ❤️💙 After Josh he was always my favorite player!! pic.twitter.com/AVsfBk0GoK
— Kalli Mariakis ❤️💙🦬 (@kalli_mariakis) April 18, 2024
“Over the past three years, your unwavering support and our shared energy have taken this game to new heights, and I am deeply grateful for it. Even though my future is uncertain at the moment, one thing is clear – I am eagerly anticipating our reunion on May 19th!”
Hyde mentioned that there’s something “special” planned for this year’s donations. The funds will be distributed to “each participating player who has a foundation or donor-advised fund.” Together as a team, they will collaborate to support and uplift the community in various ways, demonstrating their collective commitment to the community they hold dear.
"Some people see the world glass half empty. He sees it, not half full, he sees it 100% full. I wish I woke up every day with the perspective he's got."
–#Bills GM Brandon Beane on Micah Hyde#BillsMafia @BuffaloPlus https://t.co/2sgI6MCuhN pic.twitter.com/q35mrgqEW6
— Dan Fetes (@danfetes) April 18, 2024
At the fourth annual charity game, donors who contribute $1,000 will have the exclusive opportunity for a meet-and-greet experience with Hyde on the field. Prior to the game itself, which showcases Bills quarterback Josh Allen and the offense facing off against the defense, there will be a Home Run Derby competition.
Bills GM Brandon Beane Left the Door Open for Micah Hyde’s Possible Return
Even though safety Jordan Poyer departed to sign with the Miami Dolphins after his release, there’s still a possibility for his former All-Pro partner to make a return.
Bills general manager Brandon Beane expressed that Micah Hyde hasn’t definitively ruled out playing, and the team remains open to the possibility of bringing him back if he decides to continue. Beane emphasized that he’s unsure of Hyde’s decision at this point. Furthermore, Beane mentioned having a meaningful conversation with Hyde over Facetime while the safety is in California, indicating that Hyde is still deliberating on his future in football.
Given his history of neck injuries, Micah Hyde was considering retirement following the conclusion of the 2023 NFL season. Addressing reporters after the Bills’ elimination from the playoffs, Hyde expressed uncertainty about his future: “I just have no idea what the future holds right now. I’m going to sit down, maybe in a couple of weeks or something, and talk to the wife and talk to the family. But we’ll see. I’m in no rush, no rush at all.”
Micah Hyde’s Wife, Amanda Hyde, Strongly Suggested Their Time in Buffalo was Over
On January 23, Amanda Hyde shared an emotional letter with fans on her Instagram page. While she left a slight possibility for a return open, Amanda indicated in the caption that a message from her husband would be “coming soon.”
In her letter addressed to Bills Mafia, Amanda reflected on Micah Hyde’s seven years in Buffalo. She expressed gratitude for the unwavering support of the fans through the highs and lows, acknowledging their presence by their side. She also highlighted the sense of community in Buffalo, referring to it as the “city of good neighbors,” and expressed how privileged they felt to be a part of it.
“So, Bills Mafia, thank you. Thank you for making this place our home… And thank you for making this place so hard to leave. You will always have a piece of our hearts, and man, do we love you guys!”
Amanda, Micah Hyde’s wife, also addressed the team’s playoff loss to the Chiefs, expressing that while the defeat may sting now, she believes the city will eventually celebrate victory. She assured fans that regardless of what the future holds for them, the Hydes will always consider themselves part of the Mafia.
Closing her message with a nod to Marv Levy, Amanda emphasized the significance of cherishing the present moment: “Because when it all comes down to it, where else would you rather be than right, right now?”