There are some very specific rules for the PUP list (physically unable to perform). If a player suffered an injury away from the team or a rookie got hurt in his final year of college then the player is not eligible for it.
If a player has practiced during training camp then the player is not eligible for the PUP list.
For a player to be eligible for the PUP list he has to be suffering from an NFL-related injury. If a player is still on the list once the regular season starts then he is unable to compete in an NFL game for the first six weeks of the season.
If the player isn’t going to be healthy by the time those six weeks are up then the team can always put him on IR (injured reserve). In that case, the player is out for the remainder of the season.
It wouldn’t have necessarily been a terrible thing if Sammy Watkins was placed on this list as long as he was taken off by game one of the regular season. But let’s just be happy he is healthy and ready to compete in training camp.
Rotoworld.com commented on Sammy Watkins’ situation:
"“The Bills will “manage” Watkins’ reps, but coach Sean McDermott is “pleased” with his star wideout’s condition. Watkins will be brought along gently through the preseason, but barring a setback, will be ready for the opener.”"
Sammy Watkins has missed eleven games in the past two seasons, enough to be considered somewhat of a liability. His health has been in question as of late, and is one of the top concerns for the Buffalo Bills’ team this season.
Sammy Watkins flashed elite potential his first two years eclipsing the 980 yard mark both seasons, before he took a step back in his limited season last year.
I will be shocked if we see Sammy Watkins in the preseason, but crazier things have happened. He will most likely dress for a couple of dress-rehearsals and then suit up for game one barring any setbacks.
It will be interesting to see how the new regime handles the star receiver, and if Sean McDermott can handle the pressure of limiting Watkins’ snap count.
Next: BLD Podcast: Live Podcast following Thursday’s Practice
Do you think Sammy Watkins is a top NFL receiver? Leave your thoughts in the comments below!