The Buffalo Bills may have quietly pulled off one of the smartest signings of NFL free agency, and it’s not getting the attention it deserves. Despite already boasting one of the league’s most efficient offenses last season led by MVP-caliber quarterback Josh Allen—the Bills found a way to get even better.
Buffalo’s passing game stayed strong in 2024 even after trading veteran receiver Stefon Diggs to the Houston Texans. They still ranked in the top 10 in passing yards despite throwing the ball just the 26th most times in the league. Young receivers like Khalil Shakir, who earned an extension in 2025, and Keon Coleman, their 2024 second-round pick, stepped up. Still, with the departures of Mack Hollins and Amari Cooper, Buffalo needed another weapon.
Enter Josh Palmer, formerly of the Chargers a move that might be the most overlooked signing of the offseason. A third-round pick in 2021, Palmer brings explosiveness to the table, averaging more than 15 yards per catch and over 9 yards per target the past two seasons. He’s shown the ability to stretch the field and create after the catch, making him a perfect fit for Buffalo’s aggressive passing attack.
While Palmer isn’t expected to be a top receiver, his role could expand in Buffalo more than it ever did in Los Angeles. Though Justin Herbert is a talented quarterback, the Bills may offer more chances for Palmer to shine in a bigger role.
In a weak year for free agent wideouts, the Bills might have landed the most valuable under-the-radar signing in Josh Palmer.
