Buffalo Bills Welcome Back Tre’Davious White: A Reunion with a Familiar Face
BUFFALO, N.Y. — In a move that has fans buzzing and analysts nodding in approval, the Buffalo Bills have brought back a familiar face to their defensive lineup. General Manager Brandon Beane had hinted at this possibility last year, and now it has come to fruition. The Bills have reached an agreement with Tre’Davious White on a one-year deal worth up to $6.8 million, as confirmed by agents Kevin Conner and Robert Brown to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
White, who was the first draft pick under coach Sean McDermott, had been a cornerstone of the Bills’ defense until his release following the 2023 season. The decision to part ways was largely influenced by salary cap constraints and a series of unfortunate injuries that plagued White’s career. However, Beane’s assurance that the door was always open for White’s return has now been realized, much to the delight of Bills fans.
Why the Bills Need White Back
Cornerback is a critical position for the Bills as they head into the NFL draft. With 2024 starter Rasul Douglas still a free agent, the return of White injects much-needed experience and familiarity into the team’s defense. The Bills have also re-signed cornerback Dane Jackson this offseason, further solidifying their defensive backfield.
White’s journey over the past year has been a rollercoaster. After being released by the Bills, he signed a one-year, $8.5 million deal with the Los Angeles Rams. Unfortunately, his stint with the Rams was less than stellar. White started the first four games but struggled, allowing four touchdowns, which led to him being benched. He was then traded to the Baltimore Ravens on November 5 in a swap of seventh-round picks. In Baltimore, White found a bit of redemption, playing in seven games and recording 10 tackles and three passes defended while participating in 35% of the Ravens’ defensive snaps.
White’s Career Highlights and Challenges
White’s career has been marked by both impressive achievements and significant challenges. A first-round pick by the Bills in 2017, he quickly established himself as a key player. Over seven seasons, White has accumulated 333 tackles, 18 interceptions, 73 passes defended, and five forced fumbles. His standout year came in 2019 when he tied for the NFL lead with six interceptions, earning him a first-team All-Pro selection.
However, White’s career has also been marred by injuries. He tore his left ACL on Thanksgiving 2021, returned for a brief stint in 2022, and then suffered an Achilles tear four games into the 2023 season. Before these setbacks, White had been remarkably durable, missing only three games and never undergoing major surgery.
- White’s return to the Bills is a strategic move to bolster their defense.
- His familiarity with the team’s system is invaluable as they prepare for the upcoming season.
- White’s resilience and determination to overcome injuries make him a player to watch.
As the Bills gear up for the NFL draft, the return of Tre’Davious White is a significant storyline. His presence not only strengthens the team’s defense but also brings a sense of continuity and leadership. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how White’s return impacts the Bills’ performance in the upcoming season.
ESPN’s Jamison Hensley contributed to this report.
Originally Written by: ESPN
