Dawson Knox

At 29.2 years old, Knox is entering the typical decline phase for tight ends. The position experiences significant erosion in both durability and production after age 30.

Knox is the confirmed TE2 behind Dalton Kincaid (fifth-year option picked up, locked as TE1) with target share down to 13% and dipping to 9-13% across the playoff run. His path to fantasy-relevant volume is capped barring a Kincaid injury.

The Buffalo Bills are expected to cut Knox despite his decent 2025 campaign, as his current deal represents a significant cap hit. Buffalo faces being over $5.6 million over the cap. A pre-June 1 cut saves $9.6M in cap space with $7.4M dead money, while a post-June 1 cut saves $12M with $5M dead money.

Knox could be released as a pre-June 1 cut saving Buffalo roughly $9.6 million with $7.4 million in dead money, or as a post-June 1 cut saving $12 million with just over $5 million in dead money. Buffalo currently has -$7,661,001 in 2026 salary cap space, making Knox a prime cut candidate.

Knox appeared in all 17 regular-season games in 2025, securing 36 of 49 targets for 417 yards and four touchdowns, clearly operating as the TE2 behind Dalton Kincaid (value: 3330.0). His role is capped in Buffalo's two-TE system with minimal path to expanded usage.

13% target share and a #26 PPR finish on 6.4 PPG reflect a true streamer/insurance role; even with stable 64% snaps the receiving volume is too thin for standalone dynasty relevance.

Knox plays a significant role as a blocker and red-zone target for Allen. While capped in total upside, his established red-zone chemistry with Josh Allen provides PPR floor value if Kincaid misses games.

Kincaid's knee injury limited his snap count significantly throughout 2025 and will require offseason rehabilitation. A significant Kincaid injury could elevate Knox to starter status, though he remains a secondary receiving option.

If released, Knox could find TE2/veteran depth opportunities with teams needing tight end help. He'll play a big role as a blocker and red-zone target for Allen in the playoffs, skills that translate to other systems seeking a veteran presence.

If McDermott and Dorsey remain in place, Knox benefits from an established offensive system that knows how to deploy him efficiently in the middle of the field.

The tight end group was one of the more productive groups on the Bills roster, as Offensive Coordinator Joe Brady emphasized the intermediate passing game. If Brady's system continues under new coaching, Knox could benefit from intermediate TE routes.

Knox took a pay cut on a reworked three-year deal through 2028, securing his roster spot and role continuity but also confirming the team views him as a complementary veteran, not a featured piece.