Posted on Mar 06

Bills release Johnson, Samuel to save over $7.9 million in cap space

Posted Mar 6, 2026

The Buffalo Bills have released cornerback Taron Johnson and wide receiver Curtis Samuel as part of their cap management strategy following the acquisition of DJ Moore from the Carolina Panthers.

Why it matters: The Bills are making significant roster changes that reflect both financial strategy and on-field performance considerations. These moves are designed to optimize their salary cap while reshaping the team for upcoming seasons.

The decision to release Johnson will save approximately $1.9 million in cap space, while Samuel's departure frees up about $6 million.
By not designating Johnson as a post-June 1 release, the Bills opted against saving nearly $7 million more, indicating a focus on immediate cap relief.

What’s new: The Bills’ trade for DJ Moore has directly influenced their decisions regarding roster cuts, highlighting the strategic reshuffling within the team.

Samuel's brief tenure in Buffalo included 38 receptions for 334 yards and two touchdowns over 20 regular-season games.
The addition of Moore, a proven receiver with substantial upside, likely rendered Samuel expendable.

By the numbers: Johnson's impact on the field was notable during his time with the Bills, particularly in their defensive schemes.

Since becoming a starter in 2020, Johnson has played an essential role in the Bills' nickel defense, which they employed 83.4% of the time.
His memorable 101-yard pick-six against the Baltimore Ravens in the 2020 postseason remains a highlight of his career.

Yes, but: While these releases may appear drastic, the Bills are prioritizing flexibility and future growth.

Jim Leonhard remarked on Johnson’s productivity, suggesting that his skills could be better utilized elsewhere, hinting at potential interest from other teams.
The Bills are also showing confidence in their ability to replace key contributors and adapt their defense without Johnson.

The big picture: These roster adjustments signify a broader trend in the NFL where teams are increasingly willing to make bold moves for financial efficiency and roster optimization.

As the Bills aim for continued competitiveness in a challenging AFC landscape, aligning their payroll with personnel needs becomes critical.
With the league’s salary cap constraints, these types of strategic cuts may become more commonplace.

What’s next: Moving forward, the Bills will seek to enhance their roster through the draft and free agency, aiming to maximize the impact of their current acquisitions.

Fans can expect further developments as the team charts its course for the upcoming season, potentially eyeing other players to fill the gaps left by Johnson and Samuel.
The Bills next steps will be closely monitored as they attempt to build on their recent successes while navigating the complexities of the NFL's financial environment.

Bills release Johnson, Samuel to save over $7.9 million in cap space

Alex Parker

Posted Mar 6, 2026

The Buffalo Bills have released cornerback Taron Johnson and wide receiver Curtis Samuel as part of their cap management strategy following the acquisition of DJ Moore from the Carolina Panthers.

The decision to release Johnson will save approximately $1.9 million in cap space, while Samuel's departure frees up about $6 million.

By not designating Johnson as a post-June 1 release, the Bills opted against saving nearly $7 million more, indicating a focus on immediate cap relief.

What’s new: The Bills’ trade for DJ Moore has directly influenced their decisions regarding roster cuts, highlighting the strategic reshuffling within the team.

Samuel's brief tenure in Buffalo included 38 receptions for 334 yards and two touchdowns over 20 regular-season games.

The addition of Moore, a proven receiver with substantial upside, likely rendered Samuel expendable.

By the numbers: Johnson's impact on the field was notable during his time with the Bills, particularly in their defensive schemes.

Since becoming a starter in 2020, Johnson has played an essential role in the Bills' nickel defense, which they employed 83.4% of the time.

His memorable 101-yard pick-six against the Baltimore Ravens in the 2020 postseason remains a highlight of his career.

Yes, but: While these releases may appear drastic, the Bills are prioritizing flexibility and future growth.

Jim Leonhard remarked on Johnson’s productivity, suggesting that his skills could be better utilized elsewhere, hinting at potential interest from other teams.

The Bills are also showing confidence in their ability to replace key contributors and adapt their defense without Johnson.

The big picture: These roster adjustments signify a broader trend in the NFL where teams are increasingly willing to make bold moves for financial efficiency and roster optimization.

As the Bills aim for continued competitiveness in a challenging AFC landscape, aligning their payroll with personnel needs becomes critical.

With the league’s salary cap constraints, these types of strategic cuts may become more commonplace.

What’s next: Moving forward, the Bills will seek to enhance their roster through the draft and free agency, aiming to maximize the impact of their current acquisitions.

Fans can expect further developments as the team charts its course for the upcoming season, potentially eyeing other players to fill the gaps left by Johnson and Samuel.

The Bills next steps will be closely monitored as they attempt to build on their recent successes while navigating the complexities of the NFL's financial environment.