Samuel signed a three-year, $24 million contract with Buffalo ahead of the 2024 season, hoping his speed and versatility would inject a new dimension into the offense. He arrived in Buffalo after productive seasons with Washington, where he topped 600 yards in each of his last two campaigns.
In 2024, Samuel recorded 31 receptions for 253 yards and one touchdown. Last season, he appeared in just six games, finishing with seven receptions for 81 yards and a touchdown. Injuries and inconsistent play limited his impact for a Bills offense that has sought consistency and production from the position.
Sports analyst Randy Gurzi of SI.com identified Samuel as a veteran likely to be among those let go as Buffalo trims payroll and retools. Gurzi noted that Samuel never matched the production he produced in Washington despite the big contract, leaving his long-term viability in question.
A key factor in the potential release is the financial calculation: Gurzi highlighted the possibility of saving at least $6 million against the cap by moving on from Samuel. That figure underscores why the Bills could view him as a candidate in a broader roster overhaul.
With Buffalo pursuing changes on both sides of the ball, Samuel’s status has become part of the broader discussion about how the Bills will balance cost, depth, and the need for more consistent contributions at receiver. At this stage, there is no official decision announced, only the expectation of significant roster moves during the ongoing offseason.