**Buffalo Bills Offseason Insights: Contract Extensions, Player Development, and Key Roles**

As the Buffalo Bills look toward the upcoming offseason, several pressing topics are on the minds of fans and analysts alike. Joe Marino, host of the Locked On Bills podcast, recently delved into these issues, providing insights into potential contract extensions, quarterback depth, and player development. Here’s a summary of the key points discussed.

### Contract Extension Projections

A significant focus of the offseason will be contract extensions for several young players, including James Cook, Terrell Bernard, Christian Benford, Khalil Shakir, and Damar Hamlin. While all these players are eligible for extensions, only Hamlin is on an expiring contract. The others are signed through 2025, allowing the Bills some flexibility in their negotiations.

1. **James Cook**: Projected at around $10.2 million annually. Cook’s role as a versatile back who plays about 45% of the snaps complicates comparison to full-time starters, like Derrick Henry or Saquon Barkley.

2. **Terrell Bernard**: Projected at $6.7 million. This figure aligns with linebacker contracts seen in other organizations, suggesting a reasonable extension could be on the horizon.

3. **Greg Rousseau**: Projected at $24.9 million. Rousseau, currently on a fifth-year option, presents an opportunity for the Bills to restructure his deal for cap relief.

4. **Khalil Shakir**: Projected at $19.4 million. Shakir’s effectiveness in the slot has raised questions about his overall versatility and market value.

5. **Damar Hamlin**: Projected at $3.1 million. His return from injury and performance will be closely watched.

6. **Christian Benford**: Projected at $23 million. Benford has emerged as a strong performer, warranting a significant payday.

### Quarterback Depth Concerns

The Bills’ approach to backup quarterbacks has raised eyebrows, especially given Josh Allen’s durability. The organization has opted for a “Josh or bust” mentality, relying on the hope that Allen remains healthy. Concerns linger about the team’s ability to navigate a stretch without Allen if injuries do occur. The Bills prioritize having a supportive quarterback room for Allen, valuing chemistry over investing heavily in a backup.

### Khalil Shakir’s Role and Versatility

Khalil Shakir has primarily played in the slot, with a reported 75% of his snaps coming from that position. His win rate is significantly higher from the slot compared to outside, highlighting his effectiveness in that role. The podcast emphasized the importance of chemistry in the slot position, cautioning against assuming that any player can seamlessly fill that role without the necessary skill set.

### Defensive Line Development

Questions have emerged regarding the Bills’ ability to develop defensive linemen. While some players have underperformed, Marino suggested that talent evaluation may be a bigger issue than coaching. The Bills need to refine their scouting process to ensure they’re drafting and signing players who can make a meaningful impact.

Future Considerations

As the Bills prepare for the offseason, they face critical decisions regarding player contracts, roster construction, and the potential need for a backup quarterback. The front office, led by Brandon Beane, must navigate these challenges carefully to maintain competitiveness in the league.

In summary, the Bills’ offseason strategy will hinge on effective contract negotiations, addressing depth at key positions, and improving player development, particularly on the defensive line. Fans will be eagerly watching how these decisions unfold as the team looks to build on their recent successes.