NFL free agency: 4 cornerbacks for the Kansas City Chiefs to consider

E.J. Gaines

One of the biggest progression stories coming out of Buffalo was cornerback E.J. Gaines. Acquired in the trade for wide receiver Sammy Watkins, Gaines exceeded expectations in 2017. He now finds himself looking for a contract extension or new home this offseason after the best season of his career.

The Independence, Missouri born cornerback thrived in the Buffalo Bills zone scheme. While the Chiefs like to play more man coverage schemes, it still wouldn’t push Gaines out of the conversation for me—even with that last name.

One of the downsides to Gaines is his health. He missed five games in 2017, another five in 2016, and all of 2015 due to a Lisfranc (foot)  injury. ESPN Insider Field Yates thinks Gaines will get paid more than most people think. The Bills will likely negotiate a deal with Gaines this offseason seeing how the secondary was the bright spot of the defense in 2017. It’s still a name to keep an eye on in case he hits the market.