BREAKINIG: Bills Important Star Sends Message Amid ‘Unknown’ Future
The Buffalo Bills made a sudden move by releasing several key veterans just before free agency began. It remains uncertain whether safety Micah Hyde, who has been with the team for seven seasons, will also depart.
Hyde has become a free agent after his two-year, $19.25 million contract ended after the 2023 NFL season. While the 33-year-old may be considering retirement, he remains committed to his annual charity softball game.
The beloved veteran shared the news via his Instagram Stories on Wednesday, April 17. He expressed gratitude to the Bills Mafia for their support, emphasizing the significance of his time with the team and his anticipation for their annual gathering on May 19th, despite his uncertain future.
This is so awesome!! Once a Bill always a Bill! ❤️💙 After Josh he was always my favorite player!! pic.twitter.com/AVsfBk0GoK
— Kalli Mariakis ❤️💙🦬 (@kalli_mariakis) April 18, 2024
Hyde highlighted that he’s adding a “special” element to this year’s donations. The funds will be distributed to “each participating player who has a foundation or donor advised fund,” enabling them to collectively contribute to uplifting the community through various initiatives.
The fourth edition of the charity game presents an opportunity for donors who are willing to contribute $1,000 to enjoy an exclusive meet-and-greet experience with Hyde on the field. Prior to the game, which showcases Bills quarterback Josh Allen and the offense facing off against the defense, there will be a Home Run Derby competition.
Bills GM Brandon Beane Left the Door Open for Micah Hyde’s Possible Return
Despite safety Jordan Poyer’s departure to join the Miami Dolphins after being released, there’s still a possibility that his former All-Pro counterpart could make a return.
Bills general manager Brandon Beane conveyed uncertainty regarding Micah Hyde’s future, stating, “he doesn’t think Micah Hyde has ‘shut the door’ on playing.” He also expressed openness to the idea of Hyde returning to the team if he chooses to continue playing, emphasizing that the decision is still up in the air for Hyde.
Beane further shared that he had a “great conversation about life” with Hyde over Facetime while the safety is in California. He added, “I don’t think he’s 100% on a decision either way,” indicating that Hyde is still contemplating his next move.
"Some people see the world glass half empty. He sees it, not half full, he sees it 100% full. I wish I woke up every day with the perspective he's got."
–#Bills GM Brandon Beane on Micah Hyde#BillsMafia @BuffaloPlus https://t.co/2sgI6MCuhN pic.twitter.com/q35mrgqEW6
— Dan Fetes (@danfetes) April 18, 2024
Following the 2023 NFL season, Micah Hyde, due to a history of neck injuries, was considering retirement. Addressing reporters after the Bills were eliminated from the playoffs, he expressed uncertainty about his future, saying, “I just have no idea what the future holds right now.” He mentioned planning to have discussions with his wife and family in the coming weeks but emphasized that he wasn’t in a rush to make a decision.
During this period, the Bills took steps to bolster their safety position by signing former Kansas City Chiefs safety Mike Edwards in free agency. Additionally, they secured Taylor Rapp with a three-year, $10.6 million contract extension.
Micah Hyde’s Wife, Amanda Hyde, Strongly Suggested Their Time in Buffalo was Over
On January 23, Amanda Hyde shared a heartfelt letter with fans on her Instagram page, expressing gratitude for their support throughout Micah Hyde’s seven-year journey with the Buffalo Bills. Although she hinted at the possibility of a return, Amanda indicated in the caption that a more detailed message from her husband would follow soon.
In her letter addressed to Bills Mafia, Amanda reminisced about the highs and lows of their time in Buffalo and expressed appreciation for the unwavering support they received from the community. She described Buffalo as the epitome of the “city of good neighbors” and emphasized how privileged they felt to be a part of it all.
“So, Bills Mafia, thank you. Thank you for turning this place into our home… And thank you for making it so incredibly tough to say goodbye. You’ll always hold a special place in our hearts, and gosh, we adore you all!”
Amanda, Micah Hyde’s wife, also touched upon the team’s heartbreaking 27-24 playoff loss to the Chiefs. “This loss might sting for now, but mark my words – this city will rise again. And even if it’s time for us to bid farewell, rest assured that wherever we go, whatever lies ahead, the Hydes will always proudly stand with The Mafia.”
Closing her message with a nod to Marv Levy, Amanda, who shares two children with Micah Hyde, emphasized the importance of cherishing the present moment. “Because when it boils down to it, where else would you rather be than right here, right now?”