ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. – The Buffalo Bills took steps to strengthen their squad on Monday by securing agreements with receiver Joshua Palmer and defensive lineman Michael Hoecht. According to individuals with knowledge of the negotiations, Palmer, formerly with the Los Angeles Chargers, agreed to a lucrative three-year, $36 million contract. Hoecht, who has spent his career with the Rams, will join the Bills on a three-year, $24 million deal. Both deals await finalization until the NFL once the league year starts on Wednesday.
Palmer, a 25-year-old from Toronto, made his mark after being drafted by the Chargers in the third round in 2021, following his college career at Tennessee. Despite a notable 2022 season, Palmer struggled to find consistent opportunities with the Chargers. He concluded his second season with personal bests of 72 receptions and 769 yards, including three touchdowns across 16 appearances and 11 starts. Over the past two seasons, Palmer accumulated 77 catches, 1,165 yards, and three touchdowns in 25 games, starting 13 of them.
The Bills, reigning champions of the AFC East for five consecutive years, are seeking depth at the receiver position following the departures of Amari Cooper and Mack Hollins. Palmer’s arrival promises to inject speed and separation ability to a receiver lineup that includes Khalil Shakir, Keon Coleman, and Curtis Samuel.
Hoecht, at 27 years old, began his professional journey as an undrafted free agent from Brown, joining the Rams in 2021. Though listed as a linebacker, Hoecht’s substantial stature at 6-foot-4 and 267 pounds suggests a potential role fortifying the Bills’ defensive line. With a record of 13 1/2 sacks in 68 games, including 31 starts, Hoecht is anticipated to support the team’s two-linebacker defensive scheme.
The Bills recently maneuvered their roster to navigate under the salary cap. Parting ways with edge rusher Von Miller and punter Sam Martin contributed to this strategy. Furthermore, restructuring quarterback Josh Allen’s contract resulted in additional cap space. Allen’s extensive new contract, valued at $330 million, includes a remarkable $250 million in guarantees. This extension secures Allen’s role with the team through 2030, adding two years to his current agreement.
