The Buffalo Bills have until May 2 to decide whether or not to pick up the fifth-year option in Sammy Watkins‘ rookie contract. It was assumed it would be a fairly easy decision due to the receiver’s stellar play, but the Bills are reportedly hesitant because of his struggles staying on the field.
The Bills have yet to make a concrete decision either way and will discuss internally over the next couple of weeks, with the delay due to the fact the fifth-year option, worth around $13 million, would be guaranteed against injury, a source told Sal Capaccio of WGR 550.
Watkins has missed 11 games over the past two seasons, including eight in 2016 due to a foot injury. However, he’s flashed the potential to be a top-tier No. 1 target, highlighted by his 60-catch, 1,047-yard, nine-touchdown 2015 campaign, in which he was limited to 13 games.
It would be a surprise if the Bills don’t ultimately take a risk on their 2014 first-rounder and pick up the option, as Watkins is the only valuable long-term piece the team has at receiver.
Smirfitts Speech 