DE Trent Murphy
Heading into training camp, the defensive end Trent Murphy is already on the trade block and could be a cut candidate. In getting rid of him, he’ll save the Bills approximately $8 million against their salary cap. Of course you don’t just outright get rid of someone without reason. Buffalo would do so because of Murphy’s overall lack of production and all the additions made to their defensive line over the past few months.
Last season, Murphy turned it on very late, which included a two-sack playoff performance. Still, Murphy’s overall output with the Bills in the first two seasons of his three-year contract have underwhelmed. And of course, now there’s Mario Addison and AJ Epenesa being added to the fold.
Addison likely sees the start across from incumbent Jerry Hughes on Buffalo’s defensive line, then Epenesa, a promising prospect, will take over one of two rotational roles. In saving that $8 million, the Bills could decided to use a cheaper depth option like Darryl Johnson or Bryan Cox Jr. as their No. 4 pass rusher instead. Plus there’s Quinton Jefferson to consider, who could be playing both inside and outside of the Bills’ D-line.
But again, like Norman, no preseason games, no testing out those young guys. So could Murphy be retained? There’s still a chance for movement here, but no exhibitions could be considered a good thing for Murphy.
Trent Murphy's 4th sack of the season is VERY close to a safety. #Bills #Dolphins pic.twitter.com/6ClBRBU4iX
— Nick (@Nick_Wojton) December 2, 2018