Buffalo Bills tight end Dawson Knox is facing a challenging contract situation as the team navigates salary cap constraints, with Knox’s projected cap hit reaching $17.06 million in 2026. The organization is currently $3.84 million over the cap for the upcoming season, prompting discussions between Knox and the Bills’ front office to address the financial hurdle.
General Manager Brandon Beane acknowledged the difficulty of Knox’s cap number for next year and confirmed ongoing conversations with the player and his representatives.
Brandon Beane Shares Insight Into Contract Dialogue With Knox
Beane elaborated on the discussions, stating,
“He has a tough number as we go into the season, so we’ve gotta figure that out, as we do,”
as reported by Sal Capaccio of WGR Sports Radio. The GM explained that Knox approached him immediately after the Bills’ playoff loss in Denver to start talks about his contract.
Beane also emphasized the importance of trust and open communication in these negotiations, mentioning,
“Dawson and I had dialogue. The day after the season, the day after we lost in Denver, he came up to my office. We talked for a while. I have a good relationship with Chase Callahan, his agent. Done a lot of deals, and so I think it just starts with trust, communication, and honest conversation. And so we’ve had some dialogue.”
Future Discussions Expected as Deadline Approaches
While no immediate decisions are expected, Beane indicated that the timeline for resolving Knox’s contract is narrowing.
“We’re not to the point where we need to do anything yet. We’ll continue those [conversations],”
he said. He added,
“Like many decisions we have, we’re down to a couple weeks to make those. So there’s no answer. There’s no resolution in the next 24 hours or anything like that, but the discussions have happened and they’ll be done.”
Dawson Knox’s Career and Contract History with the Bills
Dawson Knox, who is 29 years old, was selected by Buffalo in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft after playing college football at Ole Miss. He completed his rookie deal—a four-year contract worth $3.34 million with an $822,172 signing bonus—and later signed a four-year extension valued at $53.6 million, including over $31 million guaranteed.
Knox’s base salary for 2026 is set at $9.91 million, further contributing to the team’s salary cap challenges.
Performance Highlights From the 2025 Season
During the 2025 campaign, Knox participated in all 17 games, recording 36 receptions for 417 yards, averaging 11.6 yards per catch, and scoring four touchdowns. His consistent presence and production remain a key part of the Bills’ offensive strategy as discussions about his future continue.
