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Ranking the Buffalo Bills deep group of running backs

By Avery Duncan

BUFFALO, NY - OCTOBER 07: Running back LeSean McCoy #25 of the Buffalo Bills runs with the ball against the Tennessee Titans in the fourth quarter at New Era Field on October 7, 2018 in Buffalo, New York. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images)
BUFFALO, NY - OCTOBER 07: Running back LeSean McCoy #25 of the Buffalo Bills runs with the ball against the Tennessee Titans in the fourth quarter at New Era Field on October 7, 2018 in Buffalo, New York. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images) /
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COVENTRY, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 16: Christian Wade of Wasps looks on during the Gallagher Premiership Rugby match between Wasps and Leicester Tigers at the Ricoh Arena on September 16, 2018 in Coventry, United Kingdom. (Photo by David Rogers/Getty Images)
COVENTRY, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 16: Christian Wade of Wasps looks on during the Gallagher Premiership Rugby match between Wasps and Leicester Tigers at the Ricoh Arena on September 16, 2018 in Coventry, United Kingdom. (Photo by David Rogers/Getty Images) /

7. Christian Wade

Just because Christian Wade can add to the practice squad, doesn’t mean he’s a sure-thing to make the roster. A former rugby star in England, Wade is, by all means, intriguing. But, before October, he had never played football before. Judging by the low success rates of rugby star to NFL converts, he has uphill battle to play in 2019.

But, if anybody can do it, it’s Wade. Though he’s just 5-foot-8 and 190-pounds, he’s earned high praise around league circles due to his explosiveness, elusiveness, balance, and speed. As a former rugby player, his toughness isn’t in question either. While his 4.53 second 40-yard-dash isn’t eye-popping, his play-speed, and ability to reach his top-gear in a jiffy is.

Before he was assigned to the Bills as part of the NFL International Player Pathway Program, Wade was working on his craft at the famed IMG Academy in Florida. Included in that was the development of his footwork, route-running, football IQ, and general improvement in the nuances of the game. Are a few months of work enough for him to take a roster spot?

Probably not. But if he does, he could be a special team standout as a returner or gunner. From my few years of experience playing rugby, the defense is very gap/lane orientated; which should translate well to the NFL on defensive special teams duties. He could also do damage as a returner — his quick-cut style of play screams returner.

Either way, Wade is worth keeping around. His play as a rugby player is awe-inspiring and worth taking a look at. He’s a good athlete as well. If he continues to work in craft, Wade may be a name to remember.

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