Bills Release Former Second-Round Wide Receiver, 'Hard Knocks' Star

Hamler was picked in the second round of the 2020 NFL draft, but has struggled to gain traction at the professional level.
Former second-round pick KJ Hamler has been released by the Bills.
Former second-round pick KJ Hamler has been released by the Bills. / Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images

The Buffalo Bills have released veteran wide receiver KJ Hamler, according to a report from ESPN's Adam Schefter.

Hamler, a former second-round pick by the Denver Broncos out of Penn State, had gained popularity on HBO's Hard Knocks through his quest to make Buffalo's roster.

"Nobody said this road would be easy," Hamler said on a recent episode. "As long as I am grinding and as long as I'm here, I always have a shot."

Hamler, who has battled his fair share of injuries since turning pro, has caught 42 career passes for 620 yards and three touchdowns. He has not appeared in a regular season game since the 2022 season.


More NFL on Sports Illustrated

feed


Published
Mike McDaniel
MIKE MCDANIEL

Mike McDaniel is a staff writer on the Breaking and Trending News team at Sports Illustrated, where he has worked since January 2022. His work has been featured at InsideTheACC.com, SB Nation, FanSided and more. McDaniel hosts the Hokie Hangover Podcast, covering Virginia Tech athletics, as well as Basketball Conference: The ACC Football Podcast. Outside of work, he is a husband and father, and an avid golfer.