Breaking: Bills Contract Extension Likely Spells End for All-Pro
The Buffalo Bills have signed cornerback Christian Benford to a contract extension, which could signal the eventual departure of All-Pro linebacker Matt Milano. Reports indicate that Benford, considered one of the league’s top secondary players, has secured a four-year deal—potentially at Milano’s expense, especially after the linebacker took a pay cut this offseason. While the Bills appear to be preparing for life without Milano, he may use the upcoming season to boost his value in free agency or prove he’s still worthy of a new contract with Buffalo.
A fifth-round pick in the 2017 NFL Draft out of Boston College, Milano emerged as a premier edge rusher, particularly after an outstanding 2022 season. However, injuries have kept him off the field for much of the last two years. Despite progress in his recovery—avoiding additional surgeries or rehab—his future with the team remains uncertain. Although Milano wants to remain in Buffalo, a strong performance next season could make him more attractive to other teams in free agency.
Benford isn’t the only player receiving a new deal, as the Bills have also extended quarterback Josh Allen, linebacker Terrell Bernard, wide receiver Khalil Shakir, and defensive end Gregory Rousseau. Given the circumstances, Buffalo is unlikely to find much interest in trading Milano and may simply let him walk in free agency, depending on how the season unfolds.
Breaking: Christian Benford Contract Extension Likely Spells End for All-Pro Matt Milano
Possible Next Teams
Los Angeles Chargers
Potential Landing Spots for Matt Milano
As Khalil Mack prepares for what could be his final NFL season, the Los Angeles Chargers are in need of a reliable, durable linebacker after parting ways with Joey Bosa. While Milano may not be a perfect replacement, his hard-nosed playing style aligns with Jim Harbaugh’s old-school football philosophy, making him a potential fit in Los Angeles.
The Baltimore Ravens struggled defensively last season following the departures of Jadeveon Clowney and Geno Stone. With Trenton Simpson unable to fill the void left by Clowney, Roquan Smith and Kyle Van Noy have been carrying the burden. If Milano can stay healthy, he could provide much-needed reinforcement for Baltimore’s defense.
The Washington Commanders, known for their aggressive blitz schemes, could see Milano as a natural fit alongside Frankie Luvu. With veteran Bobby Wagner likely retiring after this season, Washington will need a capable replacement. Milano’s skill set could help fill the void and potentially give the Commanders a player reminiscent of Ryan Kerrigan.
The Carolina Panthers have focused on strengthening their offense around Bryce Young, but now they’re shifting attention to the defense. The addition of Tershawn Wharton should help Derrick Brown in the trenches, but Carolina still lacks a dominant edge rusher, especially with Jadeveon Clowney nearing retirement and Josey Jewell underperforming. While Milano might not be a long-term solution, he could serve as a stopgap until the Panthers find a more permanent fix.
Perhaps the most intriguing possibility is the Kansas City Chiefs, a scenario that would be tough for the Buffalo Bills to swallow. With Nick Bolton securing a new deal, the Chiefs still need additional depth at linebacker, as Drue Tranquill and Leo Chenal may not be enough to alleviate Bolton’s workload. If Milano stays healthy, he could be a valuable rotational piece in Kansas City’s blitz-heavy defensive scheme.