Buffalo Bills Eye Former Pro Bowl WR Corey Davis
In a move that could significantly reshape their wide receiver corps, the Buffalo Bills are considering bringing Corey Davis out of retirement. The former New York Jets wide receiver, who stepped away from the game in August 2023 at the age of 29, may find himself back on the field in a Bills jersey.
Davis, who was the No. 5 overall pick by the Tennessee Titans in the 2017 NFL Draft, has a storied career that includes impressive college and NFL stints. During his time at Western Michigan, Davis caught 332 passes for 5,285 yards and 52 touchdowns, setting the record for most receiving yards in FBS history. His collegiate success translated well into the professional arena, although his journey has been marked by highs and lows.
Early Career and Titans Stint
Drafted with high expectations, Davis' tenure with the Tennessee Titans showcased his potential. Over four seasons, he hauled in 207 passes for 2,851 yards and 11 touchdowns. His standout season came in 2020 when he recorded 65 receptions for 984 yards and five touchdowns, demonstrating his ability as a reliable target.
Jets Tenure and Retirement
In 2021, Davis signed a lucrative three-year, $37.5 million contract with the New York Jets. However, his time with the Jets was marred by inconsistency and injuries, limiting him to just 22 games across two seasons. Despite these challenges, Davis managed to tally 66 receptions for 1,028 yards and six touchdowns. His journey with the Jets came to an unexpected pause when he announced his retirement in August 2023, stating, "Stepping away from the game is the best path for me at this time."
Buffalo Bills' Receiver Shake-Up
As the Bills look to reshape their roster, the potential addition of Corey Davis comes at a critical juncture. The team has lost its two leading receivers from the 2023 season, Stefon Diggs and Gabe Davis. In response, the Bills have been proactive in bolstering their wide receiver unit, adding the likes of Curtis Samuel, Marquez Valdes-Scantling, Mack Hollins, and rookie Keon Coleman.
Despite these acquisitions, the Bills are reportedly still exploring the possibility of adding Davis to their roster. His experience and proven track record could provide a much-needed boost to the team's aerial attack, particularly given the loss of top-tier talent.
The Road Ahead
As the saga unfolds, questions remain about Davis' readiness to return to professional football. Having been released from the Jets' reserve/retired list in March, the door is open for a comeback. The Buffalo Bills' interest signifies the belief that Davis still has what it takes to compete at the highest level.
Should he decide to return, Davis would bring a combination of veteran experience and playmaking ability to a team looking to reclaim its status as a Super Bowl contender. The prospect of Davis lining up alongside the Bills' new acquisitions presents an intriguing scenario for fans and analysts alike, offering a glimpse into what could be a revitalized Buffalo offense.
Only time will tell if Corey Davis steps back onto the field, but one thing is certain: his potential return has already generated significant buzz and could be a game-changer for the Bills' aspirations in the upcoming season.