Buffalo Bills: Top 5 Wide Receivers in the NFL Draft
By Ryan Brennan
Curtis Samuel – Ohio State
Curtis Samuel could be another versatile selection for the Buffalo Bills, but it would likely come if they trade down or if he falls to the second round — which is possible. Samuel brings the rare talent of a running back and a wide receiver, hence the comparison to Percy Harvin.
In 2016, he finished the season with 74 catches, 865 yards and 7 touchdowns receiving, adding 771 yards, 7.9 avg. and 8 scores on the ground. With the need for a wide receiver, as well as a running back (if Mike Gillislee ends up signing with the New England Patriots), Samuel has some intriguing value here.
Not to mention, he was a member of the Ohio State Buckeyes in 2014 during their championship run. Buffalo Bills‘ backup quarterback Cardale Jones was the quarterback of that team at the time.
Let’s take a look at his frame:
Height: 5’11”
Weight: 196 lbs.
Arm Length: 31 1/4”
Hands: 9 1/2”
Let’s take a look at his combine results:
40-Yard Dash: 4.31 seconds
Bench Press: 18 reps
Vertical Jump: 37.0 in.
Broad Jump: 119.0 in.
3 Cone Drill: 7.09 seconds
20-Yard Shuttle: 4.33 seconds
Here’s a look at what NFL.com’s draft profile says his strengths are:
"Has crisp feet for sudden change of direction. Long-strider with deep speed to challenge press coverage over the top. Shows defender an exaggerated jab fake at top of his routes to generate lean from cornerback and create separation out of his break. On comeback routes, can stutter feet into his break for a sudden stop-and-open timing throws. Has explosiveness both vertically and out of his breaks to uncover on all three levels. Can ramp it back up to top gear quickly after tapping his brakes in space. At his best when matched up in open space. Gets faster and more dangerous as the play unfolds. Has two years of kick-return experience. Moveable matchup piece."
Last season, the NFL saw several players with versatile abilities similar to Samuel find success in the league, like Ty Montgomery and Tyreek Hill.
Lastly, we have the receiver out of USC, which is the same school Robert Woods went to, as well as Kevon Seymour.