The Buffalo Bills have signed wide receiver Jalen Virgil to their practice squad as part of their ongoing effort to reshape their wide receiver group, which saw significant changes this offseason. Virgil brings potential as a boundary x-receiver and also adds value as a return specialist.
Originally joining the NFL as an undrafted free agent with the Denver Broncos after the 2022 NFL Draft, the 6’1″, 210-pound Virgil, a 26-year-old from Appalachian State, garnered attention before the draft for his reported elite speed. However, his pro day results were underwhelming, with a 4.40-second 40-yard dash and a 1.59-second 10-yard split, which suggested a lack of short-area burst. His three-cone drill time of 7.15 seconds further dampened his draft prospects, despite pre-draft hype that included recognition from The Athletic’s Bruce Feldman, who noted Virgil’s 10.29-second 100-meter time.
Most scouts and analysts concluded that Virgil lacked elite speed and that his strengths would be better utilized as a contested-catch outside receiver. Despite the disappointing testing numbers, Virgil’s on-field performance still showcased his abilities. During his college career, he recorded 98 catches for 1,436 yards and 11 touchdowns over five seasons. His best year at Appalachian State came in 2019, with 24 receptions for 383 yards and four touchdowns, along with 10 runs for 42 yards and one touchdown. As a kick returner, Virgil accumulated 1,142 yards and three touchdowns on 37 returns.
Virgil’s transition to the NFL has been challenging. He appeared in nine games for the Broncos in 2022, making two catches on five targets for 75 yards and one touchdown—a 66-yard grab from Russell Wilson—while also logging one kick return for 21 yards. Unfortunately, he spent the entire 2023 season on Injured Reserve.
It remains to be seen what head coach Sean McDermott envisions for Jalen Virgil with the Bills. For now, Virgil is a developmental prospect aiming to make his mark with his new team, potentially shaking up the kick return situation early in his tenure.
To accommodate Virgil on their 17-player practice squad, the Bills released wide receiver Deon Cain.
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