After moving Stefon Diggs, the Bills took the view that they didn't need a No. 1 receiver. They were wisely willing to forget the things they said when the opportunity to acquire a No. 1 receiver presented itself.

After “monitoring” Davante Adams, the Bills traded for Amari Cooper, acquiring him for a prorated base salary of $806,667 and a third-round pick and late-round trade.

It was the perfect counter to the Jets' acquisition of Adams. The Bills, with a two-game lead and the first head-to-head tiebreaker, add Cooper.

Unlike Adams, Cooper made the Pro Bowl in 2023 with 1,250 receiving yards. And even though he only has 250 points this season, he plays for a team that currently has the worst starting quarterback in the NFL.

No, the Bills didn't need a No. 1 receiver. But as they'll find out, it'll be nice to have one. Especially as the postseason inevitably approaches.

And that's the kind of move that, if it works, could help the Bills go deeper than usual. Three years ago, they could have traded for Von Miller and signed Odell Beckham Jr. The Rams did this instead and won a Super Bowl.

Ultimately, making the right moves at the right time during the season can make a big difference. The Bills have traditionally resisted even trying. This year they are rolling the dice. Sometimes the only way to reach the top of the mountain is to take that risk.