Buffalo Bills: Jeremy Kerley makes for an intriguing addition

The Buffalo Bills have signed Jeremy Kerley to a one-year deal, but what does the wide receiver bring to Western New York?

A few days ago, we explained why the Buffalo Bills wouldn’t/shouldn’t sign Dez Bryant. However, this doesn’t change the fact they need help at the wide receiver position.

This became apparent, after the loss of Jordan Matthews and Deonte Thompson in free agency. After Kelvin Benjamin and Zay Jones, the Bills have little to offer.

Enter Jeremy Kerley. As reported by Sal Capaccio of WGR 550, the Bills signed him to a one-year deal on Monday.

No one would ever make the mistake of comparing Kerley to Bryant. And just like the former Dallas Cowboys’ star he’s had his own problems.

Last November, the 29-year-old was suspended for four games, after violating the NFL’s policy on performance-enhancing substances. After he was reinstated, the New York Jets decided to waive him.

At first glance, Kerley may not seem like much of an addition for the Bills. Through seven years in the NFL, he has totaled 268 receptions, 3,109 yards and 13 touchdowns.

Regardless, the 2011 fifth round draft pick makes for an intriguing pickup. For a start, he’s had his moments during his time in the NFL.

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Two seasons in particular, stand out for Kerley. The first was in 2012, his second year in the league, when he had 56 catches and a career-high 827 receiving yards, along with two scores.

The second season which stands out for the Austin, Texas native was just a couple of years ago. During the 2016 campaign with the San Francisco 49ers, he recorded a career-high 64 receptions, along with 667 yards and three touchdowns.

While not a deep threat, Kerley can be productive in the slot. He has good hands and is not afraid to go over the middle to make the tough catch.

The former Detroit Lion has an excellent first step off the line. As such, he is often able to get open for quick slants and outs.

Another reason Kerley could prove to be a good pickup is his versatility, meaning he can be used for the occasional run, kick return and even pass. However, where his versatility could be really useful, is on punt returns.

The two-time Mountain West Conference Special Teams Player of the Year has a career average of 8.7 yards, and rarely fumbles. His best year came in 2015, when he returned a league-high 48 punts for 411 yards, at an average of 8.6 yards.

Overall, there is a lot to like about what is essentially a low-risk signing. Kerley should have an excellent chance of making the final roster for the 2018 season.

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Are you familiar at all with Kerley? If so, what’s your take? Does he represent a good signing for the Buffalo Bills? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.