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The Buffalo Bills will be missing a key target against the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 9, as one of their veteran wideouts has been declared out. That absence reshuffles the depth chart and raises fresh questions about Buffalo’s receiver room heading into the trade deadline.
What happened to Josh Palmer and why he’s not available
Josh Palmer was listed inactive roughly 90 minutes before kickoff. He has been sidelined since suffering an ankle injury in Week 6 against the Atlanta Falcons. The team treated the issue as week-to-week, and a Week 7 bye offered some recovery time.
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Palmer missed practice ahead of Week 8 and again did not make the field this week. The decision to sit him today stems from that lingering ankle problem and the team’s assessment of his readiness to play.
Immediate effects on Buffalo’s receiver rotation
Without Palmer, Buffalo’s receiving group loses a veteran option. That places more responsibility on a younger corps to move the chains and make plays in space.
Players likely to see more snaps
- Keon Coleman – Expected to take on a larger role in the outside rotation.
- Khalil Shakir – Projected to lead the depth chart and run intermediate routes.
- Elijah Moore, Tyrell Shavers and Curtis Samuel – Each should see added snaps and targets.
Why the Bills may shift their offensive plan in Week 9
With pass-catching depth tested, Buffalo could emphasize the running game more. James Cook offers a reliable option to carry the offense if the receivers struggle to create separation.
- Running more plays for Cook reduces pressure on replacement receivers.
- Shorter, high-percentage passes can offset timing issues with new targets.
- Increased use of formations that create one-on-one matchups for young receivers.
Trade deadline stakes for Buffalo’s wide receiver needs
The impending trade deadline adds urgency to the situation. Palmer’s absence highlights a potential roster deficiency.
If production from the current group remains limited, the Bills could pursue an outside addition before Tuesday’s deadline to boost the passing game and provide a veteran presence.
Other NFL stories worth watching this week
- Romeo Doubs will wear a redesigned Guardian Cap in Week 9.
- The Titans’ interest in Tyreek Hill is tied to a reported $113 million figure.
- Bills’ hypothetical pursuit of a receiver like A.J. Brown rekindles memories of the Amari Cooper deal.
- The 7-1 Indianapolis Colts face mounting calls to add a quarterback via trade.
- Green Bay’s roster still has a glaring weakness to fix before the deadline.
- The Patriots have three clear reasons to shop for a running back.
