J.D. McKissic spurns Bills to re-sign with Commanders

Running back J.D. McKissic was posted to be a nice addition for the Buffalo Bills in NFL free agency before reversing course to sign with the Washington Commanders.

What’s the old saying? It’s never over until it’s over?

That rings true for the Buffalo Bills.

Buffalo believed it had an agreement with Washington Commanders running back J.D. McKissic on Monday afternoon during the NFL’s legal tampering period, when the sides had a twi-year, $7 million deal in place.

However, on Wednesday and the start of the NFL’s league year — also when free agents can officially sign with other clubs — McKissic pulled a U-turn and went back to the nation’s capital for the same contract, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN.

McKissic is staying with the Commanders after leaving the Bills hanging

So what is Buffalo missing out on? One of the best receiving backs in the league.

The Bills are certainly a pass-first team with star quarterback Josh Allen, and McKissic would have been a wonderful fit in the offseason. The veteran back caught 80 passes in 2020 before hauling in another 43 for 397 yards and two touchdowns in 2021. While he’s not much on the ground — only 979 career yards in six seasons — McKissic is a great third-down option who can run an array of routes.

For Washington, this is a clear win. The Commanders are trying to build out their offense around the trio of quarterback Carson Wentz, receiver Terry McLaurin and running back Antonio Gibson. McKissic gives them another option and a good one.