The Buffalo Bills have a Super Bowl-caliber quarterback and an explosive running game. What they still need is greater consistency on the perimeter. Josh Allen has helped Buffalo reach 4-1, including a thrilling 37-34 overtime victory over the Los Angeles Rams. Injuries and limited receiving depth, though, have complicated the passing attack. That makes Cleveland Browns wide receiver Jerry Jeudy an intriguing trade target before the 2026 NFL deadline. Jeudy has struggled to find consistent involvement this season. However, his route-running ability and proven production offer a potential upgrade for Buffalo. General manager Brandon Beane should explore a deal built around a 2027 fourth-round pick and a conditional 2028 sixth-rounder. It is an aggressive move that could give Allen another weapon for the stretch run.
Cleveland's changing landscape
Jeudy's situation in Cleveland makes him a logical player for Buffalo to investigate. After earning Pro Bowl honors with 1,229 receiving yards in 2024, the wideout's production declined to 602 yards in 2025. Through five games in 2026, he has caught just eight passes for 81 yards without a touchdown.
Those numbers do not necessarily mean Jeudy has lost his ability. Cleveland's offensive struggles and evolving distribution of targets have limited his opportunities. That makes a change of scenery worth considering. The Browns must decide whether Jeudy remains central to their plans or whether his value could be better used to acquire future assets.
Buffalo, meanwhile, has a clear reason to make the call. Jeudy can create separation at multiple levels. He offers Allen another receiver capable of winning before a play breaks down. His 2024 campaign showed the upside of giving him consistent opportunities. The Bills could provide a more productive environment for his skill set.
A trade would not be risk-free. Jeudy's modest 2026 output raises questions about his current form. Buffalo would need to evaluate his contract and fit before committing. Still, the potential reward is significant enough to justify serious discussions.
The trade package
Buffalo should open negotiations with a 2027 fourth-round pick and a conditional 2028 sixth-round selection in exchange for Jeudy and a 2027 seventh-round pick. That proposal gives Cleveland meaningful draft capital without forcing the Bills to compromise their long-term roster-building flexibility.
The conditional pick could be tied to Buffalo's postseason success. That gives Cleveland additional compensation if Jeudy helps the Bills make a deep playoff run. Such a structure would align the incentives for both teams: Cleveland receives future assets, while Buffalo pays a higher price only if the acquisition contributes to meaningful success.
The Browns originally acquired Jeudy from Denver in 2024 for fifth- and sixth-round picks. A fourth-round selection would therefore represent a reasonable starting point for negotiations. Of course, Jeudy's subsequent production decline could make Cleveland reluctant to accept that price.
Beane should remain disciplined. Jeudy is not coming off another 1,200-yard season. Buffalo should not bid as if it were acquiring an unquestioned superstar. If Cleveland demands a second-round pick or another premium asset, the Bills should consider other options. The goal is not to mortgage the future for a gamble.
Completing the offensive puzzle
Offensive coordinator Joe Brady could deploy Jeudy as a versatile route-runner while DJ Moore is sitll out. He would play alongside Khalil Shakir, Keon Coleman and tight end Dalton Kincaid.
Shakir provides dependable underneath production. Coleman offers size and contested-catch ability. Kincaid can threaten the seams. Jeudy would add precision on intermediate routes and the ability to uncover quickly against man coverage. That could give Allen more reliable answers when defenses crowd the line to contain James Cook or devote extra attention to Buffalo's primary receiving options.
Article Continues BelowThe Bills' recent victory over Los Angeles illustrated both their resilience and their need for more offensive consistency. Allen threw for 210 yards and a touchdown while rushing for 121 yards. Cook contributed 111 rushing yards and two scores. Buffalo won despite offensive mistakes and a depleted receiving group. Adding Jeudy could help Allen distribute the ball more efficiently. It would surely reduce the burden on his legs.
Make the call
The Bills are 4-1 and have every reason to think big. Their victory over the Rams showed they can survive adversity. Championship teams, though, should keep improving while the opportunity exists.
Jeudy's quiet start makes him an attainable target. Buffalo should offer a fourth-round pick and conditional future compensation. The Bills ought to protect their premium draft assets and walk away if Cleveland's asking price becomes excessive.
If the Browns are ready to move on, this could be the kind of calculated gamble that pays off. Allen already gives Buffalo a chance against anyone. Adding Jeudy could make the passing attack that much harder to contain and bring the Bills one step closer to the Lombardi Trophy.