NFL Trade Rumors: Buffalo Bills to Sign-and-Trade Jairus Byrd?
By Chris Roling
The Buffalo Bills slapped elite safety Jairus Byrd with the franchise tag this offseason in the hopes the two sides could agree to a long-term deal. So far, Byrd’s representatives and the Bills have been way, way off when it comes to money in the potential deal.
So off in fact, many are starting to wonder if the Bills will pull an NBA-like move and do a sign-and-trade with Bryd.
How’s that for an NFL trade rumor for you?
The speculation comes from the Bills’ official website itself, courtesy of beat writer Chris Brown in response to a question:
"I don’t think we can rule out the potential of a sign and trade, but it should be noted that such an option does not exist as long as he has not signed his franchise tender. The Bills have traded a franchise-designated player before. They did it with Peerless Price when they shipped him to Atlanta in exchange for a first-round draft choice back in 2003.I believe the Bills would prefer to keep Jairus Byrd on the roster long term. Keep in mind there are other options for both sides (e.g. sign one-year tender, wait until end of season to negotiate long term contract, etc.).I don’t want to get too far into the hypotheticals, but in reference to your ‘what would they trade for’ scenario, a proven starting guard couldn’t hurt."
So there’s that. Who knows if the Bills will end up giving Byrd the money he wants, but one thing’s for sure—losing him would be a major blow for the defense.
Expect this one to drag out. Just keep a close on eye on it.
Follow me on Twitter for more NFL, NBA and MLB news and analysis @Chris_Roling