Buffalo Bills wide receiver Khalil Shakir has stepped into a veteran role within the wide receiver group this offseason and is embracing the responsibility.
“This year the receiver room is obviously completely different,” Shakir, not the oldest but the longest-tenured Bill in the room, told the media after OTAs on Tuesday. “But everyone gets along well.”
When asked about how these changes will impact the offense, Shakir, now in his third NFL season—all with Buffalo—emphasized the importance of communication.
“I’m trying to help as much as I can so we can all get on the same page,” he said. “The communication part is just pretty cool.”
Regarding whether he’s prepared to take on more targets in this new offense, Shakir affirmed his readiness to do whatever is required.
“Yeah, of course. If those come my way,” he said. “I’ve always been someone who just does my job correctly. So, if I need to block 50 times, I’ll block 50 times. If I need to run a route, I’ll do that. I believe in what goes around comes around.”
When asked about the offensive coordinator and any changes in approach this season, Shakir said Joe Brady’s approach is what he expected.
“He brings a lot of energy, just like when he took over last year,” Shakir said about Brady. “Our preparation and approach remain the same.”
He added that with Brady now “leading the show,” the team is working to ensure everyone is on the same page.
“It was great when he took over in Week 11 last season, and we’re building on that,” Shakir said. “Yards after catch is always emphasized, as it was last year. Even without pads, we’re focusing on making moves upfield after catching the ball.”
Shakir noted a shift in strategy regarding player touches, particularly with star receiver Stefon Diggs.
“When you have a guy like Steph, obviously he’s one of the best receivers in the league,” Shakir said. “So, it’s natural to want to get him the ball. But it’s important for everything to work together. Spreading the ball around gets everyone open. It was never just about forcing the ball to him.”
Shakir reiterated the importance of fulfilling assigned roles, whether running routes to clear space or blocking to support teammates.
“If you have to run a route 50 times, do it full speed 50 times. That 51st time might be your turn to catch the ball,” Shakir said, echoing the team’s new offensive motto, “In this offense, everybody eats.”
