Bills Debate on Joshua Palmer vs. Amari Cooper Drawing Criticism

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Adam Schultz | Last updated Mar 12, 2025 8:03 AM ET

The Buffalo Bills needed another weapon or two for quarterback Josh Allen as the franchise looks to break through their playoff glass ceiling.

There was a thought of a player like Tee Higgins or even an Amari Cooper return, but the Bills looked to free agency and signed Los Angeles Chargers speedster Joshua Palmer to be the newest addition to Joe Brady's receiver room.

The three-year, $36 million deal might seem a bit steep, but Palmer does bring some solid production to the AFC East champs. However, for CBS Sports, the funds used on Palmer could have been used on a better option.

"Look, nothing against Joshua Palmer, who got $36 million to be Josh Allen's latest downfield option," CBS Sports writes. "Maybe Allen will finally elevate the wideout from speedy sidekick to legit starter. A year after Buffalo settled -- or overpaid -- for scraps like Curtis Samuel and Marquez Valdes-Scantling, however, it stands to reason the team could've allocated its resources a little better when it comes to Allen's perimeter weaponry."

Palmer was a serviceable contributor in L.A. during his four seasons and had over 580 yards in his last three seasons. With Khalil Shakir, Keon Coleman, and Curtis Samuel as Allen's top three receiver targets, someone who can stretch the field was needed.

That is Palmer. Plus, he has elite hands and easily gets separated from his defenders, which Bills receivers struggled with last year.

Palmer vs. Amari? The Bills feel they just settled that debate.

It isn't going to be viewed as a move that will tilt the scales one way or the other for Buffalo, but it is a genuine speed option that Brady and Allen can now work with.

There is potential to go along with his production, and for Buffalo, it hopes that Palmer's trajectory continues upward with an MVP throwing him the football.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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