Sean McDermott reveals practice status for injured Bills' starting receiver

Buffalo Bills' head coach Sean McDermott delivered positive news about an important offseason addition to the offense.

Ralph Ventre | Sep 4, 2024

Bills wide receiver Curtis Samuel puts out the stiff arm. / Shawn Dowd/Rochester Democrat and Chronicle / USA TODAY NETWORK

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The Buffalo Bills have hinted that free-agent addition Curtis Samuel will add an important playmaking element to the wide receiver position.

The 28-year-old Samuel displayed his speed and versatility throughout preseason practices, but there was some uncertainty about the veteran's availability for the September 8 season opener against the Arizona Cardinals due to a minor injury. On Wednesday, Bills' head coach Sean McDermott revealed that Samuel is ready to practice in full.

"Cole Bishop, Quintin Morris and Curtis Samuel will all be full [participants] today," said McDermott as the Bills enter the meat of game week.

Samuel was battling a turf toe issue that emerged late during training camp. He returned to practice in a limited capacity last week prior to the team's Labor Day Weekend break.

The elusive pass-catcher made two receptions for 23, including a nice 15-yard tunnel screen, in Buffalo's preseason opener against the Chicago Bears, but was inactive for each of the two ensuing exhibition contests.

"It [Samuel's presence] offers some level of unpredictability, I would guess," said McDermott. "What's important mostly for us is that we get into a rhythm and we continue to learn some of these new players that we have. Curtis being one of them. We're excited to see him out there at practice today and then tomorrow and then on into the game."

Samuel totaled 62 catches for 613 yards and four touchdowns in 16 games last year with the Washington Commanders. His best statistical season came with Joe Brady as the Carolina Panthers' offensive coordinator in 2020. Samuel totaled 1,051 scrimmage yards that year.

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