Buffalo Bills Release Defensive Stars Poyer, Morse, Neal, Harty, and Hines
ICARO Media Group
The Buffalo Bills made a significant announcement on Wednesday, releasing several key players from their roster. The list includes safety Jordan Poyer, center Mitch Morse, defensive back Siran Neal, wide receiver Deonte Harty, and running back Nyheim Hines. These departures mark the end of an era for the players who have played vital roles in the team's recent success.
Jordan Poyer, a long-time safety for the Bills, has been let go after a remarkable seven-year stint with the team. Poyer's contributions have been exceptional, recording 682 tackles, 22 interceptions, 35 tackles for a loss, 48 pass breakups, and 11 sacks during his time in Buffalo. He leaves as one of the most decorated defensive players in franchise history.
Poyer's arrival in Buffalo in 2017, along with Micah Hyde, helped the Bills break their playoff drought, bringing leadership and excellence to the team. Together, they formed one of the NFL's best safety tandems, with Poyer setting career marks in interceptions and tackles during his first season in Buffalo. Over the years, Poyer continued to play a vital role, reaching a career-high 124 tackles in the 2020 season, where the Bills made it to the AFC Championship Game.
In 2021, Poyer's outstanding performance earned him a spot in the First Team All-Pro and recognition as the 45th-best player in the NFL Top 100. Despite battling injuries during the 2022 season, Poyer displayed perseverance, recording four interceptions, a forced fumble, and impressive tackling stats. He has been an integral part of the team's defense, inspiring his teammates with his commitment and dedication.
Similarly, the Bills bid farewell to center Mitch Morse, who spent the last five seasons with the team. Morse, a former Pro Bowler, played in 77 games for Buffalo and became a dependable teammate for quarterback Josh Allen. His presence on the offensive line was crucial in the team's success, as they allowed the fewest sacks in the league during the 2023 season.
Defensive back Siran Neal, who played in 97 games over the past six years, was also released by the Bills. Neal made valuable contributions to the team's special teams unit as a gunner. Wide receiver Deonte Harty, who joined the Bills for a single season, made 15 catches for 150 yards and one touchdown in 2023. Additionally, Harty showcased his skills in the return game, accumulating 26 punt returns for 323 yards and one touchdown.
Lastly, running back Nyheim Hines, who missed the entire 2023 season due to a leg injury, was released by the Bills. Hines, who is set to enter his sixth NFL season, was unable to showcase his abilities on the field.
The departures of these players mark the end of an era for the Buffalo Bills and their impact on the team's success cannot be overlooked. Each player has contributed significantly to the Bills' roster, with Poyer, Morse, and Neal playing integral roles in the team's five consecutive playoff berths. As the Bills move forward, they will undoubtedly work to fill the void left by these respected players and continue their pursuit of success in the NFL.