5 Buffalo Bills on roster bubble who helped themselves against the Lions

Detroit Lions fullback Jason Cabinda (45) makes a catch behind Buffalo Bills linebacker Andre Smith (59) during the first half of the preseason game at Ford Field in Detroit on Friday, Aug. 13, 2021.
Detroit Lions fullback Jason Cabinda (45) makes a catch behind Buffalo Bills linebacker Andre Smith (59) during the first half of the preseason game at Ford Field in Detroit on Friday, Aug. 13, 2021. /
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Buffalo Bills
Aug 13, 2021; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Buffalo Bills wide receiver Marquez Stevenson (5) reacts after making a catch against the Detroit Lions during the fourth quarter at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports /

Marquez Stevenson

Marquez Stevenson had the big play of the night when he caught a 42-yard pass from Jake Fromm on 4th and 10 on the final drive. That play kept the drive alive that ultimately ended with a Tyler Bass field goal and a Buffalo Bills win.

While this was a big play and Stevenson finished the night leading the team in receiving yards (50) and tied for the team lead in receptions (3), it was his play on special teams that helped his chances more.

The Buffalo Bills have great depth at wide receiver and the chances of him making an impact at wide receiver this year are unlikely. However, the Bills are in the process of trying to find a replacement for Andre Roberts and this is a clearer path for Stevenson to make an impact as a rookie.

In the game against the Detroit Lions, Stevenson had a chance to return three kickoffs and averaged 24.7 yards per return.

Similar to Andre Smith, versatility is important and on Friday night, Marquez Stevenson showed enough both at wide receiver and as a returner to at least remain in the discussion moving forward.