Could Curtis Samuel be a fantasy football steal in 2024? With a new team and a new quarterback, his potential is sky-high.
Samuel’s Opportunity in Buffalo
The Buffalo Bills’ receiving corps underwent significant changes this offseason. Stefon Diggs and Gabe Davis departed, leaving a void for Curtis Samuel to fill. Entering his eighth season, Samuel, still only 28, lands in a prime position to become a key target for Josh Allen. This presents a golden opportunity for Samuel to potentially have the best season of his career.
Why Samuel is a Fantasy Football Sleeper
Fantasy football experts are taking notice of Samuel’s potential. Nathan Jahnke of Pro Football Focus (PFF) highlighted Samuel as a sleeper pick for 2024. His current average draft position (ADP) makes him a value pick in the 11th round. With Allen under center, someone has to catch passes, and Samuel is poised to be a top contender for the WR1 role. Jahnke emphasizes Samuel’s potential, stating, “One of the three wide receivers is definitely going to be a steal…I’d give Samuel the edge.”
Curtis Samuel, Bills, Fantasy Football
Samuel’s Career and Fit with the Bills
Samuel has proven to be a versatile player throughout his career, lining up both in the slot and on the perimeter. However, his performance has been notably better when playing outside. Fortunately, the Bills’ offensive scheme offers him the opportunity to excel in this preferred position. He’ll compete with Khalil Shakir and rookie Keon Coleman for snaps, but as Jahnke pointed out, Samuel has historically outproduced Shakir and should emerge as a reliable target for Allen.
Samuel’s Competition and Projected Role
Jahnke further elaborates on Samuel’s advantage over his competition: “Samuel has a chance to be the top wide receiver option in Buffalo…While Samuel is known as a slot receiver, he’s graded better when lined up outside.” This bodes well for Samuel’s fantasy prospects, suggesting he’ll be utilized in a way that maximizes his strengths. The Bills’ tendency to move their receivers around also suggests Samuel will see a variety of opportunities.
Samuel’s Past Performance and Future Potential
Samuel’s best season came in 2020 with the Carolina Panthers, where he amassed 1,051 total yards and five touchdowns. He showcased his versatility by contributing as both a receiver and a runner. In Buffalo, he is expected to focus primarily on receiving, potentially unlocking even greater production. The combination of Allen’s elite quarterback play and Samuel’s untapped potential creates a recipe for a fantasy breakout. With a significant upgrade at quarterback, Samuel could be set for a career year.
Conclusion: Is Samuel Worth the Risk?
Curtis Samuel presents a compelling case as a fantasy football sleeper in 2024. The departure of key receivers in Buffalo, coupled with Josh Allen’s proven ability, creates a fertile ground for Samuel to thrive. While there is always risk involved in drafting a sleeper, Samuel’s potential reward significantly outweighs the cost. Will he live up to the hype? Only time will tell, but the stage is set for a breakout season.
