Buffalo Bills signing Andy Isabella adds competition at key position

On Friday, the Buffalo Bills announced the signing of free agent wide receiver Andy Isabella who was recently with the Baltimore Ravens but was also a member of the Arizona Cardinals for just over three seasons. With this signing, the Bills released wide receiver Jalen Wayne. The 26-year-old wideout was a second round pick in 2019 out of UMass with high expectations as a speedster but has unfortunately not been able to get real playing time in the league. 

In four seasons, Isabella has managed to record only 33 catches for 447 yards (his highest in a season is 224 yards) and three touchdowns. Isabella has not received a real chance to show the abilities that he displayed at UMass, where in four seasons he racked up 231 receptions for 3,526 yards and 30 touchdowns. In fact, his senior year was his breakout year where he had north of 100 receptions (102), for 1,698 yards and 13 touchdowns. 

What is Andy Isabella's best chance to make the Buffalo Bills 53-man roster?

Isabella more than likely will not be taking many reps with the offense at wide receiver, but he may have a legit chance to make an impact on special teams. In the 2019 NFL Combine, Isabella ran a 4.31 40 yard-dash which shows that he has acceleration when in the open field. The Bills have brought in competition throughout camp and he may compete for special teams with Deonte Harty, who may be the main guy to return punts and kickoffs with Nyheim Hines out for the season with a torn ACL. 

Isabella has yet to receive a legit chance to show his talent and even though it may not be in Buffalo as a receiver (just because they already have a crowded receiver room), there is a chance for him to impress on the third phase of the game which is something that Sean McDermott likes to make sure is all set. 

However, Isabella may also be brought in for competition as a receiver as well but if he is looking to make the roster, going through special teams reps may give him the best chance to see the field this year with the Bills.