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Bills Could Move On From Veteran WR After Offseason Addition

The Buffalo Bills may be preparing to part ways with veteran wide receiver Laviska Shenault following a busy offseason in which they added several experienced players to bolster their receiver depth.

According to Nick Sabato of the Niagara Gazette, Shenault is projected to be a roster casualty, likely falling victim to the numbers game as the team trims down before the regular season. Sabato believes the Bills will only carry five receivers — fewer than usual — to allow room for extra players at other key positions, particularly cornerback, following Rasul Douglas’ departure in free agency.

The five receivers expected to make the final roster include returning contributors Khalil Shakir, Curtis Samuel, and rookie Keon Coleman, along with offseason acquisitions Elijah Moore and Joshua Palmer. Sabato anticipates that Tyrell Shavers, Jalen Virgil, and rookie Kaden Prather will remain on the practice squad.

Shenault’s Special Teams Ability May Be His Best Shot

Sal Maiorana of the Democrat & Chronicle echoed a similar outlook, noting that the addition of Elijah Moore has pushed Shenault further down the depth chart. However, he added that Shenault’s versatility in the return game could help him stick around if he secures the kickoff return duties and contributes on special teams.

Last season with the Seattle Seahawks, Shenault showed flashes in the return game, averaging 28.7 yards on 16 kick returns and scoring a touchdown.

WGR 550’s Sal Capaccio also suggested that Shenault’s signing may have been strategic. Head coach Sean McDermott’s involvement on the NFL’s competition committee gave the Bills early insight into a potential rule change promoting more kickoff returns. Capaccio speculated that this foresight may have influenced Shenault’s acquisition.

Capaccio added that with Mack Hollins leaving for New England, Shenault could help fill the void as both a return specialist and receiver. If the NFL does indeed change the touchback rule, return men like Shenault could become more valuable, possibly giving the Bills added roster flexibility on game days depending on matchups.