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Bills WR Justin Shorter Lone Bright Spot in Preseason Loss to Steelers

Buffalo Bills rookie Justin Shorter was a standout in Saturday's preseason matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers, as he was the game's leading receiver.

Kade Kimble

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The Buffalo Bills aren't just using the preseason to settle position battles. Finding pieces to add to their wide receiver depth is another key storyline to watch as the Bills push towards regular season play.

And despite Saturday's 27-15 preseason loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers at Acrisure Stadium, rookie receiver Justin Shorter was one of the brightest storylines in what was otherwise an ugly game for Buffalo.

He posted five receptions for a game-high 47 yards even hauling in a touchdown from Kyle Allen late in the game.

The fifth-round pick has the measurables to be a solid receiver at 6-4, 233 pounds. The rookie didn't have any elite seasons in his college football playing days, but his frame allows him to be a talent the Bills utilize for quarterback Josh Allen and across from fellow receiver Stefon Diggs.

The Bills' receiving room took a hit this offseason. They're now relying on consistent seasons from players like Gabe Davis and Khalil Shakir. Shorter would be a huge asset if he can find a way to breakout early and become a viable option in the pass-game. 

Shorter didn't receive a pass target in the first preseason game, so his showing this time around is that much more encouraging. 

This is a game for the receiver to build off moving forward. As opportunities continue to come, Shorter will be able to receive passes from Josh Allen, and playing alongside Diggs will open up the field even more. 

As has been mentioned throughout training camp and this far into preseason, the receiver position needs depth if the offense wants to reach its true ceiling, and its not possible for the average run-game to make any impact if the pass-game isn't going to be consistent. 

At the end of the day, relying on Allen and Diggs to do it all offensively isn't viable anymore. Shorter has the chance to change things in a positive way in Buffalo this season. 

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Kade Kimble
KADE KIMBLE

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