Robert Woods given opportunity to lead for the Buffalo Bills

Robert Molnar
Updated
Nov 8, 2015; Orchard Park, NY, USA; Buffalo Bills wide receiver Robert Woods (10) runs the ball after a handoff during the first half against the Miami Dolphins at Ralph Wilson Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 8, 2015; Orchard Park, NY, USA; Buffalo Bills wide receiver Robert Woods (10) runs the ball after a handoff during the first half against the Miami Dolphins at Ralph Wilson Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports

With the surgery on star wide receiver expected to sideline him potentially through training camp, Robert Woods has been given a top opportunity to lead within the Buffalo Bills offense. Looking to make the jump into a starting role this season, expect Woods to perform well this season.

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However, with the Bills new media policy, it will be hard to determine how well Woods is performing in the early part of the teams organized activities. That though, is for another article that came out earlier today. Either way, expect Woods to be a top performer during the early part of these practices.

A now four-year veteran of the NFL, expect Woods to begin taking over as a leader for the very inexperienced receivers currently in camp with the Buffalo Bills. Averaging 12.1 yards per reception during his career, Woods should also be able to help fill the offensive hole left by Watkins should he be out longer than expected.

Another receiver that I also expect to perform well during the absence of Sammy Watkins is sixth round draft pick Kolby Listenbee. The former TCU track and football star, there is no doubt about Listenbee’s top end speed, something he definitely shares with Sammy Watkins.

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With his ability to sprint down the field and go up and get the ball likely to at least partially translate from college, Listenbee could be a top performer during both OTA’s and training camp. I would also look for him to at least get some second half reps during the team’s pre-season games.

While Sammy Watkins will likely be back by the time the pre-season roles around, there is no guarantees that he won’t be injured again real soon. Should that happen again, both Robert Woods and Kolby Listenbee could be in-line for some playing time during the regular season.

Should Tyrod Taylor continue to play well as the teams starting quarterback this season, the passing game should be well setup for success. With the current setup of the team, this looks to be the best shot at the playoffs that the Buffalo Bills and their fans have had in many years. If they are to end that drought, look for Listenbee and Woods to step up and play a role this season.

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