The Buffalo Bills finalized a significant roster decision on Tuesday by signing tight end Dawson Knox to a new three-year contract. Knox, 29, who was drafted in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft from Ole Miss, had recently expressed uncertainty about his standing with the team. His new contract ensures he remains with Buffalo as the team navigates salary cap constraints.
Knox, a Pro Bowl selection during his tenure, faced a contract situation complicated by a large cap hit, prompting discussions around restructuring. Despite financial considerations, Knox emphasized his desire to remain with the Bills throughout the process.
Financial Pressures Prompt Contract Adjustment Ahead of 2026
Knox’s previous contract included a $12 million cash commitment for 2026, featuring a $1.5 million roster bonus due early in the new league year. This sizable cap hit put the Bills in a difficult position, as releasing him would free about $9.7 million in cap space but still result in $7.4 million in dead money against their salary cap.
On the “Monday Mornings With Mitch” podcast, Knox shared his perspective on the uncertain offseason due to financial factors.
“It’s weird because every other offseason I’ve had is knowing we’re definitely back in Buffalo unless something crazy happens,” Knox said. “But now knowing that next year my cap hit is huge, and I really don’t have any guarantees…” – Dawson Knox, Tight End
Before the new deal was finalized, Bills General Manager Brandon Beane discussed Knox’s situation at the NFL Scouting Combine, acknowledging the mutual desire to find a solution.
“We’d be crazy not to want a Dawson Knox back. We know we have to make it work for him and work for us,” Beane said. “So it’s TBD at this point, like it is with some other players, too.” – Brandon Beane, Bills General Manager
The updated contract runs through the 2028 NFL season, replacing Knox’s previous four-year, $53.6 million deal signed in 2022.
Sources: The Bills and Pro Bowl TE Dawson Knox have agreed on a new three-year contract. pic.twitter.com/UkGaXHaX1m – Jeremy Fowler, Sports Journalist
Impact of Knox’s New Contract on Bills’ Tight End Depth and Strategy
Last season, Knox contributed in all 17 regular-season games, securing 36 catches for 417 yards and four touchdowns, while commanding roughly 58 percent of the snaps among the Bills’ tight ends. His role remains vital to the team’s offensive scheme.
Dalton Kincaid, Buffalo’s 2023 first-round pick, managed 12 games due to knee and oblique injuries, yet still posted 39 receptions for 571 yards and five touchdowns. Meanwhile, Jackson Hawes, a fifth-round selection in 2025, caught 16 passes and was recognized for his blocking prowess. According to Pro Football Focus, Hawes ranked fourth out of 69 qualifying tight ends, with Kincaid achieving the second-best ranking in the same evaluation.
Knox’s decision to stay was influenced in part by his connection with tight ends coach Rob Boras, who was recently promoted to run game coordinator in Buffalo. This continuity within the coaching staff contributed to Knox’s confidence in the team’s direction.
Over 102 career games exclusively with the Bills, Knox has amassed 229 receptions, 2,694 yards, and 27 touchdowns. With Knox and a fully healthy Kincaid, quarterback Josh Allen will continue to benefit from a strong tight end duo, posing considerable challenges for opposing AFC defenses.
Sources: The Bills and Pro Bowl TE Dawson Knox have agreed on a new three-year contract. pic.twitter.com/UkGaXHaX1m
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) March 10, 2026
