The Buffalo Bills might not be interested in handing CJ Spiller a new contract, but they have no issues giving Fred Jackson a new deal. The team currently has four running backs in training camp and the contract situation shows they might only plan on carrying as trde rumors surround Spiller heading into 2014. With Jackson locked down for what most assume is his career, what happens with Spiller?
The Bills announced on Wednesday that Jackson has signed a new deal that will extend his contract for one more season. The 33-year-old was entering the final year of his deal and is set to earn $2.45 million. The financial details of the new contract were not announced, but it appears Jackson will finish out his career with the Bills. The new contract comes as the veteran competes with three other running backs for playing time. Jackson was already looking at a limited role, as he currently sits at No. 2 on the depth chart, but that could change if Spiller is not on the team.
The Bills traded for Byrce Brown in the offseason while also having young backs in Anthony Dixon. Both players are signed through next season while Spiller has an option for 2015. If things go well this year for Spiller, he can pass on the option and hit the open market or the Bills could trade him something Yahoo Sports and Bills beat writer Matthew Fairburn of Syracuse.com says it a possibility.
Spiller is easily one of the best offensive performers on the Bills' roster, but after upgrading the wide receivers spots and adding Brown into the running back mix, Spiller's future is shaky. The fifth-year back is currently facing trade talk as contenders like the San Francisco 49ers and Seattle Seahawks are having issues with their ground game. Spiller is trying not to focus on the headlines or contract talks and just worry about improving.
"I haven't really thought about that," Spiller said, via Syracuse.com. "Every year to me is a crucial year. Every year you get to play this game is crucial because you don't know when it will be your last. All that other stuff, it will handle itself. Since I've been here we've always been a run-heavy team. Teams will do that until our receivers go out and prove what they can do. As an offensive player, I know what they can do."
The Bills are likely carrying four running backs because last season both starters went down and the team was strapped for depth. However, four is more than enough and opens the door for a trade should someone come calling. Right now, the Atlanta Falcons are dealing with Steven Jackson's hamstring injury. The 49ers are down two running backs and the Seattle Seahawks have not seen Marshawn Lynch since the start of training camp. A Spiller trade would be expensive and likely a last-resort option for teams meaning nothing will probably happen, but the option is there and with three backs signed through next season, Buffalo will answer the phone if it rings.