Bills' overlooked $24 million WR 'confident' in ability and experience

The Buffalo Bills had a battle-tested weapon with 4.3 speed competing at minicamp, and not many have been talking about him

Jan 26, 2025; Kansas City, MO, USA; Buffalo Bills wide receiver Curtis Samuel (1) does a toe drag tap as he catches a pass for a touchdown against the Kansas City Chiefs during the AFC Championship game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. / Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

While much of the offseason attention focused on newcomers Elijah Moore and Joshua Palmer along with 2024 second-round pick Keon Coleman, the Buffalo Bills have a potentially dangerous weapon seemingly flying under the radar.

All in all, the 2024 season was a disappointment for those expecting serious production from wide receiver Curtis Samuel, but there are multiple signs suggesting the soon-to-be 29-year-old can be a key piece in offensive coordinator Joe Brady's system this year.

First, and foremost, Samuel appears healthy. From the late-summer turf toe injury to a mid-season banged-up shoulder, the 2017 second-round selection never had the chance to establish himself in his first year after signing a three-year contract (reportedly worth $24 million) with the Bills.

By multiple accounts, Samuel looked good physically during Buffalo's three-day minicamp this past week in Orchard Park.

TRENDING: Bills lock up two Kentucky rookies, leaving only one unsigned draft class member

“I feel good, you know, confident, feel fast and excited for this journey," said Samuel in a post-practice interview shared by WGR 550 AM. "It's just all about being healthy, just getting in the rhythm.”

Jun 11, 2025; Orchard Park, NY, USA; Buffalo Bills wide receiver Curtis Samuel (1) makes a catch during Minicamp at Highmark Stadium / Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images

Samuel appeared to finally find his rhythm in the playoffs, scoring touchdowns in the wildcard round and the AFC Championship Game. Now, he has a year of experience with quarterback Josh Allen, and another year of knowledge in Brady's system. Samuel played one season (2020) with Brady as the Carolina Panthers' offensive coordinator, and he amassed over 1,000 yards from scrimmage.

“Just being familiar with the offense and being familiar with the system, and kind of understanding the areas you got to be in, and not over thinking things," said Samuel.

He's a player who came into the league with 4.3 speed and gained more than 600 yards receiving in four separate seasons. Now, he is playing with a MVP quarterback and an offensive coordinator who has previously gotten the most out of him.

Ignore Curtis Samuel at your own risk.

Nov 17, 2024; Orchard Park, New York, USA; Buffalo Bills wide receiver Curtis Samuel (1) runs with the ball for a touchdown after making a catch against the Kansas City Chiefs during the second half at Highmark Stadium / Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images

—  Enjoy free coverage of the Bills from Buffalo Bills on SI  —

More Buffalo Bills News:

• Bills' GM provides update on rookie CB Maxwell Hairston after minicamp injury

• Bills' newest linebacker pays ultimate compliment to head coach Sean McDermott

• Bills' Josh Allen opens door to Olympic flag football possibility

• Josh Allen proudly committed to Hailee Steinfeld in official Bills' photos

• Bills reveal two-year time lapse video showing stunning Highmark Stadium progress