Buffalo Bills: Kelvin Benjamin trade proves playoff chase is for real

If there was any doubt the Buffalo Bills were serious about ending their playoff drought this season, trading for Kelvin Benjamin removes it.

Entering Sunday’s game against the Oakland Raiders, the Buffalo Bills had one major weakness – their receiving corps. Their combined totals for catches and yards were both ranked last in the entire NFL.

Even though the Bills went on to record an impressive 34-14 win, the lack of quality at the wide receiver position was still evident. As such, they decided to do something about it.

As reported by Sportsnet, the Buffalo Bills have acquired Kelvin Benjamin from the Carolina Panthers. In return, they have given up 2018 third and seventh round draft picks.

In the process, the Bills have shown they are serious about ending the longest playoff drought in the NFL (and among all four major North American sports leagues). The question is, was it a smart move?

Consider how much effort the Buffalo Bills have put into getting rid of players such as Sammy Watkins and Marcell Dareus. No one doubted their talent, but they came with extra baggage the new regime was not prepared to deal with.

In this respect, Benjamin could theoretically fit into this category. There have been allegations of a bad work ethic, which resulted in trouble staying in shape.

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However, the chances are there is little to worry about, given that the 2014 first round draft pick is reuniting with Sean McDermott and Brandon Beane. It’s fair to say these two gentleman would not have traded for him, if they were concerned about his ability to buy in and get with the program.

Benjamin has what it takes to be a consistent legitimate number one receiver in the NFL. His combination of size and talent makes him tough to cover and should give Tyrod Taylor a reliable option to throw to.

The 26-year-old has already shown flashes of what he is capable of, with 1,000 yards in his rookie campaign. He missed the 2015 season with a torn ACL, but recovered to fall just short of 1,000 yards again last year.

Benjamin has totaled 32 receptions, 475 receiving yards and two scores in eight games this season. The Buffalo Bills will obviously hope he can now duplicate this — if not exceed it — and help them qualify for the postseason for the first time since 1999.

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What is your take on the addition of Benjamin? Are you excited by what he potentially offers, skeptical or taking a wait-and-see approach? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.