The Buffalo Bills wide receiver corps may be one of the worst in the NFL. After nominal starters Kelvin Benjamin and Zay Jones, it’s a grab bag filled largely with mediocre veterans (Jeremy Kerley, Kaelin Clay, Rod Streater, Andre Holmes) and unknown rookies hoping to make an impact (Ray-Ray McCloud, Cam Phillips, Robert Foster, Austin Proehl). It’s clear the position needs an infusion of talent, one that may come September 1st, which is the day when teams need to trim their roster to get to 53 players. Some intriguing names may shake loose during that process; below are a few possible options that the Bills should consider.
Breshad Perriman, Baltimore Ravens
Perriman was the 26th overall pick 2015 NFL Draft by the Baltimore Ravens and was supposed to be the team’s new long-term deep threat. Injuries and ineffectiveness have limited his usage, and after the Ravens went out and signed several quality veterans, Perriman may be on his last stand this training camp. Still only 24 years old, the third-year player still has the raw athleticism that saw him drafted in the first round. Perhaps all he needs is a change in scheme and scenery.
Phillip Dorsett, New England Patriots
Similar to Perriman, Dorsett was another first round pick of the 2015 NFL Draft. After two disappointing years with the Indianapolis Colts, the team traded him to the Patriots in exchange for quarterback Jacoby Brissett. Despite not having much time to adjust to the Patriots’ scheme, the young wideout was quickly thrust on to the field and saw 33% of the team’s offensive snaps. Again, like Perriman, it’s clear that Dorsett still has intriguing physical talent. The opportunity for playing time in Buffalo may be just what he needs to jump start his career.
Leonte Carroo, Miami Dolphins
The Dolphins traded up to draft Carroo in the third round in the 2016 Draft. Known for his sure hands, the team was hoping that the wideout would lock down the number 3 wide receiver role in Adam Gase’s offense. It appears, however, that he has been passed by Jakeem Grant on the depth chart, and will likely be battling to remain on the team at all. Unlike the previous two options on the list, Carroo doesn’t offer the same athletic upside, but his strong hands and ability to run block could make him a valuable member of the Bills’ wide receiver corps.
ArDarius Stewart, New York Jets
Another AFC East wideout, Stewart is a 2017 third round pick whose best quality is his toughness. A middle-of-the-field, possession receiver while at Alabama, Stewart didn’t see many opportunities his rookie year, and only caught six passes for 82 yards as a result. Now facing a two-game PED suspension, the Jets may decide to cut ties with the young player in order to give new arrival Terrelle Pryor more opportunities.
Braxton Miller, Houston Texans
Miller made a similar transition from quarterback to wide receiver as Pryor, but he hasn’t found nearly the same success. The former Buckeye has only caught 34 passes over two season of play, which may persuade the Texans to move on from him. However, at 6’1” with 4.4 speed, he’s still a dangerous player with the ball in his hands and could serve as a versatile red zone weapon if a team can unlock his potential.