Buffalo Bills’ wide receiver Marquise Goodwin just signed with the San Francisco 49ers. Former Atlanta Falcons’ offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan, who is now San Francisco’s head coach, snagged Goodwin for his new team. While Goodwin did not set the Bills on fire, he was a good deep threat that is now gone. Here is where Buffalo’s wide receiver core stands right now.
Sammy Watkins
It is not secret that Buffalo’s Sammy Watkins is their top priority. A first- round pick that Buffalo traded a few draft picks to get, Watkins started for the Bills’ in 2014.
When he is on the field, the wide receiver’s speed and skillful hands are not match for cornerbacks. His main problem is staying healthy.
Watkins missed over half the season last year with a foot injury. He had another offseason foot surgery that raises some concerns. Can the guy stay healthy this year? In three years with the Bills, Watkins has 17 touchdowns and almost 2500 yards.
Robert Woods
A somewhat underrated wide receiver, Robert Woods has been a solid, clutch player for Buffalo. He had to step up his game in 2016, due to Watkins’ injury. He has averaged around 500 yards per year since starting with Buffalo 4 years. His speed, route running, and great blocking are all assets for Buffalo.
The wide receiver’s clutch plays make him unique and dependable. Woods is currently a free agent and is drawing some interest from the San Diego Chargers and New England Patriots. The Bills need to keep Woods on the roster. Losing him would be a blow to a Bills wide receiving core that just lost Goodwin.
Justin Hunter
Almost half of Justin Hunter’s receptions turned into touchdowns last year.
Hunter’s height and long jumper experience is a definite advantage for Buffalo. He was underused last year. If Tyrod Taylor can find more ways to get the ball into Hunter’s hand, then the Bills offensive will be even more explosive than last year. Taylor and Hunter played together in college for Virginia Tech.
Buffalo finished in the top ten for offense last year- largely to the team’s awesome LeSean McCoy and Mike Gillislee rushing combination.
With the NFL becoming more of a passing league, Buffalo needs to strengthen their wide receiving core this season. Drafting another wide receiver this year would help the team become a better passing offense.
