The Buffalo Bills are one of the season’s most hyped NFL teams. Of course, they’re guided by Josh Allen, who won MVP last season. One of the key weapons of the team has been dealing with an ankle injury that has put his Week 1 status in jeopardy. This is a big game since they play Lamar Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens.
Reported by Joe Buscaglia of The Athletic, Bills head coach Sean McDermott stated that wide receiver Khalil Shakir “should be on pace to return for the start of the season.” This would mean his high ankle sprain is evolving great.
If this is the case, Shakir could suit up to play alongside Josh Allen in Week 1, which is a massive game against Lamar Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens. It’s powerhouse vs. powerhouse to start the season so for Allen, having his best weapon available is obviously positive.
Shakir was Allen’s most reliable receiver in 2024
The 2024 NFL season was a career-year for Shakir. Entering his fourth season, the Boise St. product will be, once again, Allen’s first option. He is fresh off a 76-catch, 821 yards season. He also scored four times. Not only that, but he merely played 15 games and just nine were as a starter.
Khalil Shakir #10 of the Buffalo Bills takes the field prior to playing the Denver Broncos during the AFC Wild Card Playoffs at Highmark Stadium on January 12, 2025 in Orchard Park, New York.
He made his name known as the season progressed. Shakir was highly reliable as he caught 76% of the passes thrown his way. He is usually lining up on the slot. His release is quick and even if his route running is not elite, it’s still very good and it allows Shakir to get open for Allen to find him.
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The Bills have other weapons too
The wide receiving corp on Buffalo is not precisely top-tier, but between prospects with potential and some sleeper names on the roster, this offense can still be productive.
Besides Shakir, Joshua Palmer and Keon Coleman are ready to step up and become outright dangerous weapons. As for the running game, James Cook is holding out as he is looking for a new contract. Once that is settled, the Bills will recover a very good running back. Finally, the Bills have one of the best tight end duos in the NFL. Dalton Kincaid and Dawson Knox are excellent weapons, particularly in the endzone.
