Buffalo Bills: How long will Charles Clay last with the Bills?

Despite Charles Clay’s strong start to the season, ongoing knee issues have people wondering how long he will be with the Buffalo Bills?

Charles Clay‘s tenure with the Buffalo Bills couldn’t have gotten off to a better start. He caught all four passes thrown in his direction, and helped his new team earn a convincing win over the Indianapolis Colts.

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However, Bills fans may not want to get too used to seeing their new tight end in action. There are questions about how long he will be able to play, due to chronic knee issues.

As reported by Adam Schefter of ESPN, Clay had his knee drained at least six times during last season. This led to concerns about how much longer he has left in the NFL.

It turns out the Miami Dolphins limited the 26-year old’s participation in practice all season long, just to try and get him ready for game day. Eventually, the stress of his knee injury led to a hamstring strain in his right leg.

This likely explains why the Dolphins declined to match the Bills offer sheet during the offseason. Buffalo ended up signing Clay to a five-year, $38 million contract, including $24.5 million in guaranteed money.

According to Schefter, one Doctor has claimed the Little Rock, Arkansas native may only have one productive season in Buffalo. Not helping, is the fact he will be playing on turf at Ralph Wilson Stadium.

In some respects, the Bills may have already had a glimpse into the future. Clay had problems with his knee during training camp.

As such, the 2011 sixth round draft pick spent a large part of the summer resting up, although he did play in the preseason game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. This was just enough time for him to show what he is capable of, as evidenced by a 67-yard touchdown reception.

Clay was asked about his knee during summer by Mike Rodak of ESPN. However, he didn’t seem too concerned, saying he was fine.

However, he did sound a bit defensive (understandably so), when asked if it was the same issue as last season: “I don’t want to get much into all of that, you can ask (coach) Rex (Ryan).

“I don’t want to get too much into injury talk. But I’m 100 percent fine, so I’m not worried though.”

The Bills are expecting a lot from a player who started off his football career as a fullback. Obviously, the team will be hoping his contribution lasts longer than one season, and preferably for five.

Next: Ronald Darby proves he's up to the task

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