Dawson Knox Speaks Out: Tight End Calls for Larger Role in Buffalo Bills’ Offense — “I Won’t Be Ignored Anymore”

In a bold and emotional statement that sent shockwaves through the Buffalo Bills organization and fanbase, veteran tight end Dawson Knox has made it clear: he wants a bigger slice of the offensive pie. After years of playing a secondary role in the team’s passing attack, Knox is done being quiet. He’s no longer content to serve as a blocker or an occasional red-zone target. He wants to be a consistent weapon—and he’s demanding that opportunity now.

I’ve put in the work, I’ve sacrificed for this team, and I’ve stayed quiet long enough,” Knox told reporters after a recent team workout. “I’m not asking for anything I haven’t earned. I’m saying it straight—I’m done being overlooked.”

Knox’s frustration isn’t unfounded. Since entering the league in 2019 as a third-round draft pick out of Ole Miss, the 27-year-old has shown flashes of brilliance. He’s built like a linebacker, runs like a wide receiver, and has made some of the most jaw-dropping catches by a tight end in recent team history. In 2021, he enjoyed a breakout campaign, hauling in nine touchdown passes—tied for the most among tight ends that season. But since then, his involvement in the offense has plateaued, especially with the emergence of rookie sensation Dalton Kincaid in 2023.

While Kincaid’s arrival injected new life into Buffalo’s passing game, it also pushed Knox further down the depth chart. He went from being the featured tight end to being a rotational piece, often used in two-tight end sets or as a blocker. The drop in usage has not only affected his numbers—it’s weighed heavily on his confidence and identity as a player.

I’m not bitter about Kincaid. He’s a great player, and I respect what he brings to the table,” Knox clarified. “But I can do more than people think. I’m more than just a blocker. I can make plays. I can stretch the field. And I believe I can help this team win if I’m given the chance.”

Those comments signal more than personal frustration—they hint at potential tension within the locker room. The Bills’ offense, which has seen its fair share of ups and downs in recent seasons, has leaned heavily on superstar wide receiver Stefon Diggs and quarterback Josh Allen’s improvisational ability. But as Diggs’ future with the franchise becomes increasingly uncertain and new playmakers emerge, Knox believes the moment is ripe for a re-evaluation of the offensive strategy.

Head coach Sean McDermott and offensive coordinator Joe Brady have both been diplomatic in addressing Knox’s remarks. When asked whether Knox would see an expanded role in 2025, McDermott offered a neutral response: “We value what Dawson brings to this team. He’s a leader, a competitor, and someone we trust. Roles evolve during the season, and we’ll continue to explore the best ways to maximize our personnel.”

Knox’s sense of urgency is also fueled by his age and the reality of life in the NFL, where windows for success are short and unforgiving. As he enters his sixth season, he knows that a player’s best years don’t last forever. He wants to capitalize on his talent while he still can—and he wants to do it in Buffalo.

The Bills are currently in the midst of retooling their offense after a disappointing playoff exit last season. With Diggs now in Houston, Gabriel Davis gone, and younger weapons still developing, the door could be open for Knox to regain a central role. The team signed several wideouts this offseason, but none with proven star power. That creates an opportunity—one Knox is eager to seize.

Analysts around the league have mixed opinions on Knox’s declaration. Some see it as the fire Buffalo’s offense needs. Others worry it may disrupt team chemistry.

But one thing is clear: Dawson Knox isn’t going to fade quietly into the background. He’s drawing a line in the sand. Whether the Bills embrace that challenge or not could have major ramifications for their 2025 campaign.