Curtis Samuel made a sharp cut inside before hauling in a pass from Josh Allen at practice, a sign that the Buffalo Bills wide receiver is finally healthy again. After a hamstring injury sidelined him for most of training camp, Samuel enters the 2025 season with plenty to prove on a roster built for a Super Bowl run.
Head coach Sean McDermott has described Samuel as an “important piece” of the offense, but his role remains uncertain given the time he missed. Despite limited participation in camp, Samuel was included on the team’s initial 53-man roster. He insists he’s ready to contribute, saying, “I know what I’m capable of when I’m out there. I’m going to fight and work to be out there.”
Samuel’s first year in Buffalo was uneven. Signed to a three-year, $24 million deal in 2024, he played in 14 games, catching 31 passes for 253 yards and one touchdown. In the playoffs, however, he flashed his potential with six receptions for 81 yards and two scores. Nagging injuries—including turf toe, shoulder, and pectoral issues—limited his impact throughout the regular season, though he still managed to make appearances in most games.
When healthy, Samuel brings speed, versatility, and run-after-catch ability that makes him a dangerous weapon in short-yardage situations. He has proven in the past he can handle a heavy workload—posting 77 catches and 851 yards in 2020 with Carolina under then-offensive coordinator Joe Brady, who now holds the same role in Buffalo. Josh Allen praised Samuel’s shiftiness, calling him “an electric football player” who adds needed quickness to the offense.
Still, his role is complicated by competition. Elijah Moore and Tyrell Shavers took on more reps during Samuel’s absence, and both share similar skill sets. Khalil Shakir and newly signed veteran Joshua Palmer also bring depth, while the team even hosted Gabe Davis for a preseason visit. With Buffalo seeking more downfield production, Samuel’s short-area skills must carve out a complementary role rather than duplicate others.
The Bills value Samuel’s ability too much to move on, but with little trade market and minimal cap savings if cut, his future depends on staying on the field. As Samuel put it: “I understand sometimes the opportunities aren’t that much, but the way to get more is by showing up every day, putting in the work, and making plays.”
About the Author
