Bills waive rookie after he refuses to sign IR paperwork over pay cut concerns, ahead of the 2nd preseason game — on his 23rd birthday
Buffalo’s preseason preparations took an unexpected twist on August 15, when what should have been a routine roster move turned into an early departure for a rookie tight end — on the very day he turned 23.
The issue centered around the injured reserve (IR) designation, a standard NFL mechanism used to protect roster spots while sidelined players recover. In this case, the process hit a wall when the rookie declined to sign the IR paperwork due to concerns over a reduced paycheck.
At the center of the matter was Keleki Latu, a tight end out of Washington. Before transferring to the Huskies in 2024, Latu played at Nevada and California. During the 2024 season, he appeared in all 13 games for Washington, recording 40 receptions for 371 yards and one touchdown.
General manager Brandon Beane made his stance clear: “If you won’t sign the IR papers, you’re telling me you’d rather risk everything for a paycheck than protect your future — and we don’t build champions with that mindset.”
Latu’s college résumé highlighted his steady production and versatility in the passing game, qualities that earned him an opportunity in Bills camp. However, an injury kept him out of the preseason opener and limited his practice availability leading into Week 2.
By refusing the IR designation, Latu not only risked worsening his condition but also removed himself from contention in Buffalo’s crowded tight end room. For the Bills, the decision meant cutting ties before he had a chance to showcase his potential.
Fan reactions have been split — some admired Latu’s determination not to be sidelined, while others questioned the wisdom of jeopardizing his long-term NFL career over short-term compensation.
On August 15, the Bills officially waived Latu, ending his brief tenure in Buffalo before he could make his preseason debut — a move made all the more jarring given it came on his birthday.
