When healthy, Sammy Watkins has proven to be an elite talent. With his foot as good as it’s been in more than a year, could 2017 be a career year for the talented receiver?
By Jake Hamilton / Contributing Correspondent
While the Buffalo Bills are close to training camp, all eyes will be on wide receiver Sammy Watkins. The wide out joined the league in 2014 being the fourth overall selection in the 2014 NFL draft. Through three NFL seasons, Watkins has shown signs of being elite, but unfortunately has dealt with some injuries that have slowed his development.
Watkins has had to deal with multiple injuries but one that he has dealt with since the 2015 season has been a broken bone in his foot. The injury kept him out of all last offseason and eight weeks into the regular season. While playing in those last eight games, Watkins recorded 28 catches for 430 yards and two touchdowns.
In a positive light, Watkins has taken the correct precautions in order to get back onto the field. In early January, he decided to get a second surgery on his foot and if all continues to go well, Watkins should be ready to go for camp.
The wide out was limited in the Bills OTAs and minicamp this offseason that was held in June. He was able to participate in individual drills and then rotated in a little bit with some team drills where he ran with the first string offense. It was an encouraging sign to see him out there making progress on his foot and work to re-establish his chemistry with Tyrod Taylor.
Although it is still early, the coaches have taken notice of his progress thus far.
“Credit to Sammy, credit to our training staff and the way he’s attacked the rehab with them. That has to continue, though. This is one step in that process of getting Sammy back to where he needs to be and where we need him to be,” said head coach Sean McDermott.
Watkins has looked comfortable in the practices that he has been able to participate in. It’s an encouraging sign moving forward that although he may be limited, he is still sticking out amongst the rest. It’s important to note that these practices have also not had any pads or any contact.
When Watkins has not had to deal with an injury keeping him away, he has shown elite traits. His ability to create separation from opposing corners is like no other and pairing that with his strong hands, creates a powerful force. Winning matchups and contested catches is something that Watkins has proven he can do and do well.
Watkins caught 63 passes for 1,047 yards and nine touchdowns back in 2015 and this was where he emerged into the spotlight of the NFL. It’s important to note that that was through only 13 games. He was on pace for 78 catches for 1,288 yards and 11 touchdowns had he played all 16. Not to mention, that was his first season with Tyrod Taylor and the duo immediately formed chemistry.
In early May, the Bills decided to deny Watkins’ fifth-year option deeming him a free agent for the 2017 offseason. Watkins has a lot on the line in terms of playing for his future. Often times players will take notice of that and push for a career year to maximize their value when it comes to a new contract.
Add in the fact that the number two wide receiver on the roster will likely be a brand new element to the starting unit and it’s likely that more targets will go Watkins’ way to make plays.
If Watkins can continue to progress in training camp and take that next step towards being fully healthy, the sky is the limit. Having played in three NFL seasons, developed chemistry with Tyrod Taylor and in a contract year; Watkins has the ability to put up a career season. We know he has the physical traits and ability. Getting through 16 games will be the key.