Bills cornerback lands unexpected role on first depth chart. Informative and concise.

The Buffalo Bills have surprised some by naming a new punt returner who wasn’t widely anticipated for the role heading into the season. The competition for punt returning duties had been unsettled throughout the preseason, with Mecole Hardman handling much of the return work during the regular season but being released at final cuts and not rejoining the practice squad. Ray Davis, who has served as the primary kick returner, also contributed a few punt returns but was relieved of those duties after muffing a punt.

The first depth chart released by the team highlighted a surprising entrant as the punt returner of record for the opener.

Dee Alford Secures the Punt Returner Role

According to reporting, the team has listed nickel cornerback Dee Alford as the primary punt returner for the season opener against the Houston Texans. He is shown as the starting punt returner, ahead of running back Ray Davis and wide receiver Khalil Shakir. Davis, who is listed as the first kick returner, had three punt returns during the preseason but muffed one opportunity.

Alford does not have extensive NFL experience as a returner; his punt return work prior to this season was limited, with all 20 of his career punt returns occurring during the 2023 season with the Atlanta Falcons.

Potential Alternative Punt Returner Options

There is speculation that another option could be available if needed. Newly added practice squad receiver Greg Dortch has been suggested as a potential call-up for the season opener. Dortch brings more punt return experience to the table, including an 8.9-yard average on punt returns and a 23.6-yard average on kickoff returns. The veteran wide receiver has appeared in 68 NFL games, with 17 starts, recording 145 receptions for 1,310 yards and 10 touchdowns.

Bottom line

– The Bills’ punt return duties have been unsettled, with Dee Alford emerging as the projected starter for the season opener.
– Ray Davis remains involved in return duties but has had at least one punt return muff in the preseason.
– Greg Dortch could be elevated from the practice squad if additional help is needed for punt returns.

This reshuffling reflects the team’s broader efforts to optimize special teams and reduce field-position risks through the early part of the season. As the schedule unfolds, further adjustments could be made based on performance in games and practice.