The Buffalo Bills have significantly strengthened their offensive lineup by acquiring wide receiver Curtis Samuel on a three-year contract worth $24 million, according to two undisclosed sources familiar with the deal who spoke to The Associated Press on Thursday.
The insiders, preferring to remain anonymous as Samuel had not yet finalized the agreement, disclosed that the 27-year-old receiver is assured $15 million, with potential additional bonuses that could elevate the total contract value to $30 million.
Having completed seven NFL seasons, Samuel spent the past three years with the Washington team, delivering consistent performances with over 60 receptions and 600 receiving yards in each of his last two seasons, accompanied by a total of 10 touchdowns (eight receiving, two rushing). This surge in productivity marked a significant improvement from his initial season in Washington, which was hindered by groin and hamstring injuries.
Previously with the Carolina Panthers for four seasons, Samuel now reunites with Bills offensive coordinator Joe Brady, who previously served in the same role with the Panthers in 2020. During his tenure in Carolina, Samuel enjoyed a standout season with 77 receptions, 851 yards, and three touchdowns. He also achieved career highs with 41 carries for 200 yards and two rushing touchdowns.
In Buffalo, Samuel is poised to fill the starting role left by Gabe Davis in free agency, providing the Bills with an explosive threat to stretch defenses alongside receivers Stefon Diggs, Khalil Shakir, and tight end Dalton Kincaid.
The Bills further fortified their receiving lineup this week by signing Mack Hollins to a one-year contract.
Overall, Samuel, a second-round draft pick from Ohio State in 2017, has accumulated 317 receptions for 3,383 yards and 22 receiving touchdowns, in addition to seven rushing touchdowns.
In a separate move, running back Ty Johnson agreed to return for his second season in Buffalo, signing a one-year deal. Johnson’s involvement expanded during the latter part of last season, particularly in a pass-catching role.
