The future of CJ Spiller is unknown at the moment. The running back has the opportunity to become a free agent in the upcoming offseason and is looking to ink a long-term deal. If the 2014 free agent market proved anything, it is that a running back is not worth anything more than a two-year deal at best. Many of the best backs coming off career-high years could only ink one-year contracts. Spiller wants more, hurting his status with the Buffalo Bills as the two sides pick back up with negotiations.
Spiller and the Bills spent most of the offseason attempting to nail down a new contract. Things stalled out, putting Spiller's future into question. To make matters worse, the team inked Fred Jackson to a contract extension. They traded for running back Bryce Brown while also signing Anthony Dixon to a three-year deal. It appeared like the Bills were preparing for life without Spiller. However, according to general manager Doug Whaley per WGR-AM, the team is preparing to sit down with Spiller's representatives to try and pick up contract talks once again.
There is no question that outside of Sammy Watkins, Spiller is the Bills' most valuable offensive asset. The running back has proven that he can help bail out the quarterback and stabilize the unit throughout the season. He is the clear top back despite the offseason moves made by the Bills. He carries the ball 15 times in Week 1 compared to the seven times Jackson got the ball and five times Dixon got the ball.
What happens if a contract cannot be agreed upon for Spiller? Could a trade of the running back be the works? It was reported earlier in the offseason when negotiations were first stalling that the Bills were prepared to trade the veteran should it appear that his demands are too high for the team to meet. At this point in the year a deal seems unlikely which could mean Spiller is a free agent. Several teams could then be in play for the 28-year-old.
The Oakland Raiders might seek out a deal considering Darren McFadden and Maurice Jones-Drew are not starting their years off well. The Minnesota Vikings could be an option especially after the hints that Adrian Peterson might be ready to "go home" to the Cowboys in his next contract. The Houston Texans could use a star to help ease the burden on Arian Foster. The Bills cannot afford to let Spiller walk away at the end of the year, but they will have to work hard to retain him.
