The Buffalo Bills are hopeful the offensive depth they built in the offseason is enough to make up for any quarterback issues that may arise with Tyrod Taylor getting his first NFL start on Sunday. The Bills certainly brought in a lot of big names to fill the depth chart with, but most of them have spent the preseason injured and remain doubtful for Week 1 play. The biggest concern is LeSean McCoy who might have a torn hamstring while Sammy Watkins is stressing he is healthy and ready to play.
Watkins has been a mystery for the preseason as he remained on and off the field with various injuries. Percy Harvin took a jab at his teammate saying the Bills were simply keeping the car in the garage, but with his injury history there is reason to be concerned with Watkins. The leading receiver practiced on Tuesday and made it clear his glute injury was nothing to be concerned about.
"I think I'm ready to play," said Watkins, per the team's official website. "For the most part it's just about getting mentally and physically prepared for this game and enduring some physical battles. So I think I'm in shape. I'm ready to go."
With Harvin dealing with hip issues, the most consistent receiver for Buffalo has been Robert Woods. While fantasy owners have no interest in starting Woods over Watkins, there are concerns about the number of reps the receiver has gotten with Taylor. Watkins admitted they have not gotten in a ton of work together so far while Woods has been the main threat for the quarterback in the preseason.
LeSean McCoy might be thinking the same thing. According to running back coach Anthony Lynn via CBSSports.com, McCoy will be the workhorse of the rotation once he is healthy. The issue is that McCoy is not healthy as ESPN's Josina Anderson reported he has a tear in his hamstring. McCoy might not be ready to play Week 1 which will make Anthony Dixon, Karlos Williams and Bryce Brown the bulk of the rotation. There is a good chance that McCoy sits out that first game of the season which will put pressure on the receivers.
Taylor has a lot to prove in this first game of the season as he remains on a tight leash with the Bills. The quarterback has plenty of players biting at his heels after Matt Cassel re-signed with the Bills. With Taylor as the starter for the time being, EJ Manuel denies there is any drama within the group as he stressed he is not seeking a trade from the franchise and is ready to contribute when needed.
"Igood where I'm at right now with the Bills," Manuel said, via ESPN's Mike Rodak. "For right now, I'm in my current place. I'm still here with the Bills. I want to be a part of this team and I want to help us win."