In a stunning turn of events that could reshape the AFC playoff picture, the Denver Broncos have swooped in to sign veteran wide receiver Elijah Moore to their practice squad, just days after his unexpected release from the Buffalo Bills. This bold acquisition by the AFC West leaders adds depth to their receiving corps at a critical juncture in the season, potentially providing a spark for their push toward the No. 1 seed.
Moore, who joined the Bills as a free agent in the offseason, found himself on the outs in Buffalo amid a crowded wideout room. The 25-year-old struggled to carve out a consistent role, managing only nine receptions for 112 yards across nine games. His departure was hastened by the Bills’ recent addition of Brandin Cooks, who was released by the New Orleans Saints and quickly snapped up to bolster Buffalo’s offense alongside reigning MVP Josh Allen.
According to NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport, the split between Moore and the Bills was mutual, with the receiver seeking more offensive opportunities. “The #Bills and veteran WR Elijah Moore agreed over the past 24 hours on a mutual parting, source says, with Moore wanting more offensive reps. Brandin Cooks’ signing helped pave the way for Moore to be waived,” Rapoport posted on X.
Now, Moore heads west to Denver, where the Broncos—currently leading the AFC West—are eyeing him as a valuable slot option during the final stretch of the regular season. ESPN reports that Moore could be elevated for game days over the remaining five games, offering experienced depth as the team battles for playoff positioning. “Moore gives the Broncos another potential experienced option in a stretch run, especially as a slot receiver, when they are trying to keep themselves in the race for the AFC’s No. 1 seed in the postseason,” the outlet noted.
This move comes with intrigue, as the Broncos could face the Bills in the playoffs, adding a layer of potential revenge narrative. Moore’s track record speaks for itself: He showed promise with the New York Jets and Cleveland Browns, thriving despite inconsistent quarterback play. In Buffalo, however, he failed to sync with Allen, leading to frustrations and his eventual exit.
The Bills have a history of midseason receiver swaps that haven’t always panned out in their favor. Just last year, in October 2024, they released Marquez Valdes-Scantling after trading for Amari Cooper from the Cleveland Browns. Cooper contributed 20 receptions for 297 yards and two touchdowns in Buffalo, but Valdes-Scantling exploded with the Saints, hauling in 17 catches for 385 yards and four scores.
Meanwhile, Cooks is eager to make his mark in Buffalo. “I mean, I just gotta be honest, the opportunity to be able to play with Josh is — I mean, you can’t pass up the opportunity,” Cooks said last week. “He’s a special player. All you do is hear about this organization from afar, how it’s a special place, how they treat players, and it’s all about ball. So I’m thankful to be here for sure.”
Cooks praised Allen’s versatility: “I mean, there’s not a throw he can’t make. And you can tell he goes out there and there is not anything that he cannot do. From a competitor’s spirit, you want that. I’m thankful to be a part of that. The guy’s huge, he can run, he can throw. He can do it all. But his energy and his leadership skills jumps off the screen, and I’ve got a lot of respect for him.”
As for Moore, this fresh start in Denver could be the game-changer he needs. With the Broncos’ high-powered offense, he might rediscover the form that made him a second-round pick out of Ole Miss. Fans will be watching closely to see if this “shocking” pickup pays dividends in the postseason race.
Stay tuned for more updates as the NFL season heats up!