“If the Patriots pull off a major move for a receiver, then it would make a lot of sense for the Bills to go after a distressed asset,” Ballentine wrote. “When healthy, Aiyuk is an elite separator and the type of man coverage-beater the Bills need.”
Ballentine noted that Aiyuk could use a chance of scenery after becoming estranged from the 49ers, while Coleman could benefit from a fresh start as well. The Bills benched Coleman earlier this season, with the second-year receiver ending up as a healthy scratch four times this year.
“Both Aiyuk and Coleman could use a change of scenery,” Ballentine wrote. “The Bills could use a high caliber receiver at a discounted price while the Niners need cheaper help in light of Brock Purdy’s new contract extension.”
Keon Coleman Facing Critical Assignment
While the Bills may ultimately decide to move on from Coleman amid concerns over his maturity and dedication, they need some big contributions from him this week. The team is down to three healthy wide receivers after losing both Gabe Davis and Tyrell Shavers to season-ending injuries in the wild-card win over the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Both Davis and Shavers suffered torn ACLs, with Shavers going on to finish the game with his injury.
The shorthanded Bills will need Coleman to take on a bigger role in Saturday’s divisional-round game against the Denver Broncos. Coleman said he is ready to contribute.
“It’s still another football game at the end of the day, no matter what title they put on it,” Coleman said. “There’s plays that have got to be made, and I’m one of the guys that can go out and make some.”
The Bills could see a return from Curtis Samuel, who spent much of the season on injured reserve but has returned to the team this week. He is listed as questionable for Saturday’s game.
The Bills also brought back veteran receiver Kristian Wilkerson, who was one and off of the practice squad during the season and could be elevated. Wilkerson showed a strong ability on special teams during the preseason and could fill the role that Shavers played on the return and coverage units.
