Getty Image / Bryan Bennett
Training camp is set to begin in this week as teams across the NFL prepare for the 2023 season.
However, this time of year tends to be a bit brutal for some organizations, as injuries can happen during this preparation period.
That already is the case for the Buffalo Bills, after it’s been announced running back Nyheim Hines will be out for the upcoming season due to injury.
According to Tom Pelissero, “Hines suffered a significant knee injury off-site and is expected to miss the entire 2023 season.”
#Bills RB Nyheim Hines suffered a significant knee injury off-site and is expected to miss the entire 2023 season, sources tell me and @RapSheet.
A tough break for Buffalo and the versatile Hines, who was acquired at the trade deadline last fall. pic.twitter.com/5nMtV6xtAd
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) July 24, 2023
As Pelissero points out, this is a brutal blow for the Bills, as Hines is a threat in the passing game out of the backfield.
Youngster James Cook will likely be in an even bigger role this season while newly acquired free agent, Damien Harris, will be given more opportunities as well.
For now, it’s unclear whether or not the Bills plan to sign another free agent in the wake of Nyheim Hines’ injury. If they opt to go that route, there are several intriguing options available.
With that said, considering Cook and Harris offer a solid one-two punch out of the backfield, the Bills may opt to keep the running back core intact.
Maybe if someone like Kareem Hunt, or another versatile option are willing to take a low-cost deal, then the front office will pull the trigger.
With that said, the Bills are a team to watch right now, as the franchise must figure out a way to move forward without Nyheim Hines.