Safety Mike Edwards was considered one of the most significant free-agent signings for the Buffalo Bills during the offseason, expected to help fill the gaps left by several departures. However, he has struggled to make an impact, dealing with injuries that have led to his regular absence from the lineup, having played only three games with just one tackle throughout the first eight games of the season.
Now, he may be looking for a new opportunity. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported that Edwards is requesting a trade to a team where he can earn playing time, a request the Bills are open to fulfilling. “Veteran Buffalo safety Mike Edwards is available and would like to go somewhere he can play (he has been a steady inactive),” Fowler noted on October 30.
Edwards was brought in by the Bills in March, with many believing he would step into the role left by veterans Micah Hyde and Jordan Poyer. CBS Sports highlighted at that time that Edwards had a strong chance of securing a starting position, especially if Hyde decided against returning for another season.
After signing a one-year contract, Edwards was expected to start at free safety, particularly since the Bills had not yet made an effort to re-sign longtime player Micah Hyde, who is currently a free agent due to ongoing neck issues. Even if Hyde did return, some speculated that the younger, healthier Edwards might still be preferred as the starter.
Last season with the Kansas City Chiefs, Edwards was a key contributor to their Super Bowl victory, racking up 51 tackles, one interception, five pass defenses, and two fumble recoveries, including one returned for a touchdown. However, his transition to the Bills has been rocky due to a shoulder injury that caused him to miss early practices and a hamstring injury sustained shortly after training camp began.
Looking ahead, the Bills may consider adding to their secondary for the stretch run of the regular season and playoffs. Sal Maiorana from the Democrat & Chronicle suggested that Hyde might still return to the team for a crucial late-season role. Hyde, who has been with the Bills since 2017, has expressed interest in continuing his career if he can return to Buffalo, as he has not filed retirement papers and remains a free agent. Maiorana noted that Hyde has indicated that if he decides to play again, it would only be for the Bills, and since they haven’t ruled out his return, it is possible he could take Edwards’ spot on the roster.
