The Buffalo Bills are led by Josh Allen, one of the NFL’s premier quarterbacks and the reigning MVP, yet their ambitions to reach the Super Bowl continue to be hampered by the lack of reliable support around him. As the team approaches the 2025 season, questions remain about whether the Bills’ roster possesses enough depth and star talent beyond Allen to overcome tough postseason challenges.
Industry insiders, including Bleacher Report’s Moe Moton, have pointed out that while Allen’s performance is outstanding, the Bills may be held back once again by an absence of standout playmakers capable of making decisive impacts in critical playoff moments, especially when matched against elite teams like the Kansas City Chiefs.
Buffalo Lacks a Clear Offensive Star Beyond Allen for Important Moments
Moe Moton highlights a major issue for the Bills’ offense: the team is missing a go-to player who can take control during high-pressure playoff games. Moton contrasts the Bills’ predicament with the Chiefs, who recently bolstered their lineup by drafting Xavier Worthy, an explosive wide receiver who demonstrated impressive progress late in the 2024 campaign.
Last offseason, Kansas City drafted explosive wide receiver Xavier Worthy, who made strides late in the 2024 campaign,
Moton wrote.
He caught 19 passes for 287 yards and three touchdowns in the playoffs. He has momentum entering his second year, and fellow wide receiver Rashee Rice will return from injury.
The Bills feature a strong collection of wide receivers, including Khalil Shakir, Keon Coleman, Elijah Moore, Joshua Palmer, and Curtis Samuel. Despite this depth, none have yet emerged as a consistent clutch performer who reliably steps forward during playoff crunch time.
Buffalo has great depth at wide receiver with Khalil Shakir, Keon Coleman, Elijah Moore, Joshua Palmer and Curtis Samuel on the roster, but who’s going to be the go-to target in clutch moments?
Moton wrote.
Although Shakir led the team in receptions and yards during the 2024 regular season, his production noticeably dipped in playoff games. Moton notes that Shakir did not exceed 67 receiving yards in any postseason match and exhibited a sharp decline in downfield big plays despite a high volume of targets.
In 2024, Shakir led the Bills in catches (76) and receiving yards (821), but he didn’t eclipse 67 receiving yards in their playoff games. And with a higher volume of targets, the 25-year-old saw a significant drop-off in big plays downfield.
Past playoff disappointments for the Bills often involved failures by key players to secure critical catches, such as Stefon Diggs’ dropped pass in the divisional-round loss and Dalton Kincaid’s missed opportunity in the AFC Championship, both against the Chiefs. These mistakes have intensified scrutiny of the Bills’ ability to deliver under playoff pressure.
Moton also warns the team’s outlook worsens if running back James Cook is sidelined at any point, as his contributions are vital for the offense’s balance and versatility.
The Bills shouldn’t have to rely on Allen having an MVP year to reach the NFL mountaintop,
Moton wrote.
If two-time Pro Bowl running back James Cook holds out in the summer after reporting to mandatory minicamp, Allen may not have the playmakers around him to get this team over the hump.
Positive Signs as James Cook Reportedly Returns Amid Contract Dispute
Fortunately for the Bills, the worst fears about Cook missing significant time seem to be easing. Despite ongoing contract disagreements—with Cook publicly seeking a deal worth $15 million annually—the player showed up at mandatory team practices, signaling his willingness to contribute during preparations for the new season.
Bills General Manager Brandon Beane has emphasized that contract talks remain stalled and that no new negotiations are planned at this stage. Nonetheless, Cook’s attendance at minicamp has been welcomed by head coach Sean McDermott, who appreciates the running back’s commitment.
I really appreciate him being here,
McDermott said.
McDermott clarified that Cook’s contract status will not interfere with his dedication to the team, emphasizing the player’s strong bond with teammates and passion for the game.
I credit James, McDermott remarked.
Business is business, but at the end of the day, I know he loves being around this team and the guys in this locker room, and he loves to play football. So I respect his decision to be here and be amongst the team and get some work in, and we’re looking forward to that.
Outlook for the Bills’ Quest to Overcome Playoff Challenges
The Buffalo Bills enter the 2025 season with undeniable talent anchored by Josh Allen, but their road to the Super Bowl remains uncertain without reliable, high-impact contributions from their supporting players. The Bills’ performance in pressure situations, and especially their ability to match the elevated playmaking around teams like the Chiefs, will be essential to breaking through past playoff disappointments.
With running back James Cook back in practice and the team’s wide receiver group poised for opportunities, the Bills have prospects to address some concerns. However, the challenge remains for key players to emerge decisively when the stakes are highest, ensuring Allen is not left carrying the full load alone as Buffalo pursues the NFL’s ultimate prize.