Just a week ago, Jalen Virgil was on the verge of being released by the Buffalo Bills. Now, he has been given new life in his fight to make the roster.
Star slot receiver Khalil Shakir has suffered an ankle sprain in training camp. The injury could sideline him for weeks, opening up a huge opportunity for Virgil to carve out a role for himself.
Khalil Shakir injury could save Jalen Virgil's roster spot on the Bills
Virgil's NFL career has been on the ropes since it started. He was signed by the Denver Broncos as an undrafted free agent in 2022. He didn't make much of an impact as a rookie, except for a 66-yard touchdown reception against the Tennessee Titans.
Unfortunately, Virgil missed the entire 2023 season with a torn meniscus. He was then cut by Denver in 2024 before landing with the Bills.
In Buffalo, Virgil barely saw the field on offense. He played mostly on special teams, earning 120 total snaps in the 2024 season.
Heading into 2025, Virgil has a loose grip on his roster spot. The Bills brought in a few new receivers this offseason, pushing Virgil even farther down the depth chart. Before Shakir's injury, it seemed a foregone conclusion that he would eventually be released.
His job still isn't safe, but Virgil now has an opportunity to show what he can do in training camp. As a receiver, Virgil primarily plays in the slot. With Shakir out, he could earn a few extra reps there in training camp.
Virgil's combination of size and speed (he's 210 pounds and ran a 4.4-second forty-yard dash) is his best weapon. He's not a refined route runner or a jump-ball winner, but he can be used in a variety of ways.
While the Bills lack a true superstar at receiver, it's a crowded group. Keon Coleman, Josh Palmer, Curtis Samuel, Elijah Moore, Laviska Shenault, and Tyrell Shavers are all currently ahead of Virgil on the depth chart. With that many names fighting for targets, it's difficult to shine. Even with Shakir sidelined, Virgil has a tough task ahead of him.
This may be Virgil's last chance to save his NFL career. A few plays in practice and in preseason games could make the difference between getting cut and winning a spot on the final roster. If he doesn't make the most of those opportunities, his time in Buffalo may be over.