The Buffalo Bills are still alive in the quest for the Super Bowl, but they will likely cut long-time tight end Dawson Knox despite having a decent 2025-2026 campaign. The veteran tight end was one of the several names on a top 100 list that could be heading elsewhere since Knox’s current deal represents a significant cap hit. Buffalo will need to create some room once again after reworking quarterback Josh Allen‘s six-year deal, as they’re expected to be over $5.6 million over the cap. Knox took a paycut in 2024, which led to all of his guaranteed money going towards the 2025 season.
Bills Expected to Cut $29 Million Pro Bowler Dawson Knox After Playoff Run – Suitors Likely to Emerge
Unfortunately for Knox, there might not be room for him to stay, and with him entering the final year of his deal in 2026, the Bills could release him as a post June 1 designation. While the Bills could make him available for a trade to get something in return, it might be too risky for teams to invest in him at age 29. Originally selected as a third-round pick, the former Ole Miss product has been an integral piece for Allen’s offense.
It would be a huge blow for Buffalo, but it wouldn’t be surprising if the Bills work out a new extension if they win the Super Bowl. If they fail once again in the AFC Championship, Buffalo could entertain the idea of moving on from Knox. Here are some teams that are expected to make a push for the veteran tight end if he becomes available.
Next Possible Fits
Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens are still in search of a new head coach since firing John Harbaugh, but they will likely lose tight end Isaiah Likely in free agency. Lamar Jackson would need another pass-catcher to help Zay Flowers and Rashod Bateman since DeAndre Hopkins is also a free agent. Knox isn’t the most spectacular, but he’s a versatile, situational receiver that can help this offense get back on the right track.
Baltimore needs a huge wake-up call following Harbaugh’s sudden firing. The Ravens are better than they look, and even though Knox’s potential addition won’t change much, it’s a regime shift that the team could need.
Atlanta Falcons
The Falcons will be in the market for a tight end as their best pass-catcher, other than Drake London, will leave in free agency. Kyle Pitts has played for a better contract elsewhere, and after interviewing Harbaugh for the coaching position, it shouldn’t be surprising if he tries to get Likely in Atlanta. However, there are tons of options for the Falcons to improve the tight end position.
Knox would get a complete restart in Atlanta, but it gives him Michael Penix Jr. and a promising offense that could be decent again if they hire the right coach for this team.
Kansas City Chiefs
Meanwhile, the Kansas City Chiefs plan to overhaul their offense for Patrick Mahomes. With the Rashee Rice drama and Travis Kelce’s looming retirement, the team needs to find its spark again after their disastrous 2025 season. Knox isn’t the long-term fix and is more of a band-aid, but he has the size, abilities, and hands to be a postseason threat. Buffalo wants to avoid Knox leaving for Kansas City, which would be a huge blow to them.