Curtis Samuel in a game with the Washington Commanders
The Buffalo Bills, in pursuit of adding more speed and explosiveness to their offense, signed wide receiver Curtis Samuel to a three-year contract. Samuel, known for his impressive speed and agility, is expected to bring a dynamic element to the Bills’ already potent offense.
During the NFL Combine, Bills General Manager Brandon Beane emphasized the team’s need for playmakers who can turn short passes into significant gains. Samuel, who ranked third-fastest in the league among wide receivers with at least 300 routes run in 2023, certainly fits that bill.
“We’re always looking for that speed, explosiveness,” Beane said. “You want guys that can explode without the ball but you also want RAC (run after catch) players, guys that Josh (Allen) can get the ball in their hands in space, stuff that Joe Brady can scheme up, and they can turn a five-yard pass into a 55-yard touchdown or a big gain.”
A Familiar Face in a New Place
Samuel is no stranger to Bills Offensive Coordinator Joe Brady. The two previously worked together in Carolina during the 2020 season when Brady served as the Panthers’ offensive coordinator. In that season, Samuel flourished, recording 77 catches for 851 receiving yards and three touchdowns.
When asked about Brady, Samuel expressed his confidence in his former – and now current – coordinator.
“Definitely felt like he’s a good leader,” Samuel said. “Somebody you can put your trust in just because I’ve seen it, I’ve seen him put a lot of guys in great situations. He gets the most out of his players.”
Samuel’s familiarity with Brady’s offensive system could make for a seamless transition into the Bills’ offensive scheme. This prior experience could prove beneficial as he acclimates to a new team and playbook.
Samuel Excited to Team Up with Josh Allen
Joining the Bills provides Samuel with the opportunity to play alongside one of the league’s premier quarterbacks in Josh Allen. During his introductory press conference, Samuel shared that Allen had already reached out, expressing his excitement about having the dynamic receiver join the team.
For Samuel, the feeling is mutual.
“I watched (Allen) last year when I didn’t have games or when the games were on TV I watched him. Exciting quarterback, tough, hard-nosed. But my job is just to make the game as easy as possible for him.”
The prospect of Samuel catching passes from a quarterback of Allen’s caliber is an intriguing one for Bills fans. Allen’s strong arm and ability to extend plays, combined with Samuel’s speed and elusiveness, could create a formidable duo on the field.
Samuel’s Journey to Buffalo
Samuel was drafted by the Carolina Panthers in the second round of the 2017 NFL Draft. He spent four seasons with the Panthers before signing with the Washington Commanders in 2021.
Over his three seasons in Washington, Samuel started 26 games, recording 132 receptions for 1,296 receiving yards and eight touchdowns. He also showcased his versatility by contributing in the running game, tallying 49 carries for 237 yards and two touchdowns.
Samuel joins a Bills receiving corps that already features Stefon Diggs, Gabe Davis, and Khalil Shakir. The addition of Samuel adds another dimension to the Bills’ passing attack and gives Allen a diverse group of weapons to target.
High Expectations for Samuel and the Bills Offense
The Bills are entering the 2024 season with Super Bowl aspirations. The addition of Curtis Samuel to their offensive arsenal will undoubtedly fuel their championship hopes.
With his speed, route-running ability, and familiarity with Joe Brady’s offensive system, Samuel has the potential to be a game-changer for the Bills.
