The 2023 season for the Buffalo Bills was marked by fluctuations, initially facing challenges in the first half but rallying with a strong finish, culminating in a five-game winning streak by the end of the regular season. Although considered a potential surprise contender in the AFC, their postseason journey was cut short with a defeat to the Kansas City Chiefs in the divisional round.
Amidst offseason uncertainties, the Buffalo Bills are grappling with speculation regarding the potential departure of star wide receiver Stefon Diggs ahead of the 2024 season. However, they took action on Thursday to bolster their offensive arsenal by securing wide receiver Curtis Samuel on a three-year contract worth $30 million, as reported by Jonathan Jones.
Samuel, previously with the Washington Commanders for three seasons, recorded 62 receptions for 613 yards and four touchdowns in 2023. His standout year occurred in 2020 with the Carolina Panthers, amassing 77 catches for 851 yards and three touchdowns.
Buffalo recently saw the departure of Gabe Davis, their WR2 behind Diggs, to the Jacksonville Jaguars in free agency. It’s anticipated that Samuel will fill Davis’s role.
Additionally, the Bills lost pass rusher Leonard Floyd, who signed with the San Francisco 49ers. To bolster their receiving corps, Buffalo also acquired Mack Hollins. Despite a challenging 2023 season with the Atlanta Falcons, Hollins showcased promise in 2022 with 690 yards and four touchdowns while playing for the Las Vegas Raiders.
If the Bills can maintain roster stability and avoid injuries, they stand a decent chance of reaching the AFC Championship Game. However, the conference has become increasingly competitive, posing a greater challenge. Additionally, there’s the lingering notion of the “Bills curse,” which seems to resurface every winter, adding an extra layer of uncertainty to their postseason aspirations.