Last Sunday, when the Buffalo Bills beat the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 44-32, we also learned that wide receiver Keon Coleman was a healthy scratch due to being late to another team meeting.
That left quarterback Josh Allen with one less receiving target for him to throw to during the game. Luckily, others were ready to take his spot.
This underrated wide receiver stepped up and led the charge in finding chemistry with Allen
After years of just missing the cut for the 53-man roster, wide receiver Tyrell Shavers is enjoying his first season of being able to bond with Allen as his quarterback. The determined wideout exploded as he led the team with four catches and one touchdown, while totaling 90 yards on the day.
Overall, he came in to replace Coleman and made a name for himself, earning a spot on the roster. Look for him to keep playing and improve going forward. Shavers also has a significant impact on special teams, contributing additional support.
Other players who contributed
Fellow wide receiver Gabe Davis had an impact on this game as well. As the NFL prefers to call him, "Big Game Gabe", he recorded 40 yards on three catches, reminding folks why he already had chemistry with Allen in his first stint with the Bills (2020-2023).
While this catch wasn't as impactful as the one he had in the 13-second AFC divisional playoff game against the Kansas City Chiefs, he still did enough to help the Bills move to (7-3) on the season. Still, it's incredible to know that he hasn't forgotten how to play with Allen the second time around, as the guy still hasn't missed a beat since rejoining the team this season.
Running back help
Even the running backs were able to give Allen a hand this week in the passing game. Generally known for his running abilities, James Cook had 66 yards on three receptions and had one receiving touchdown.
This was big as he struggled in the run game this week, only mustering 48 yards on 16 carries, averaging 3.0 yards/carry. It's nice to know that a man who's on pace for a career high in rushing yards can get it done in the passing game, especially with Allen being very limited at the receiver position.
Ty Johnson is better known for receiving than for being a downhill runner, but even he contributed alongside Cook. Johnson had 61 yards on two catches, including a touchdown, while once again showing Allen how dependable he is as a pass-catching back to complement Cook's downhill running abilities.
For now, the underrated Shavers, along with the other three contributors, are all being team players, helping out the team anyway they can, with all the struggles at the wide receiver position.
Let's give them their flowers, where their flowers are due.