In March, the NFL announced its adoption of a modified version of the XFL’s kickoff rules, promising low-impact and high-action kickoffs starting in the 2024 season. Bills head coach Sean McDermott, a member of the league’s Competition Committee, played a pivotal role in shaping these changes, suggesting potential early success for the Bills’ special teams unit.
However, determining the ideal player for kickoff returns remains a topic of discussion among the coaching staff. Last season, the Bills saw six different players handle just 17 kickoffs, with four of them not returning to the roster. Wide receiver Khalil Shakir and running back Ty Johnson collectively accounted for 13 of those returns, but Shakir’s expected offensive role may limit his availability for special teams duty this season.
As a result, Ty Johnson emerges as the frontrunner for full-time kickoff duties. Nonetheless, the Bills are exploring other options within their roster.
3 Intriguing Buffalo Bills Players for Kickoff Returns in 2024
Curtis Samuel
Upon signing Samuel in free agency, Bills General Manager Brandon Beane praised his versatility, envisioning him not only as a receiver and backfield option but also as a potential return specialist. Although Samuel has not returned kicks since 2018, he accumulated 20 kickoff returns during his early NFL career with the Carolina Panthers.
Additionally, Samuel showcased his return skills with 21 kickoffs during his collegiate years at Ohio State University. His exceptional speed and field awareness make him a strong contender to assume a primary returner role for the Bills in 2024, pending evaluation during training camp and preseason games. Samuel’s substantial $24 million contract underscores the team’s significant investment in his multi-faceted abilities, suggesting a prominent role in Buffalo’s plans.
