Marquez Valdes-Scantling, a seasoned wide receiver for the Buffalo Bills, experienced a really frightening on-field incident in their second preseason game. Payton Wilson, a rookie linebacker for the Steelers, tackled Valdes-Scantling as he was fighting for a first down following a reception. Valdes-Scantling slid to the ground and remained down for a considerable amount of time.
With the assistance of trainers, he managed to stand up after a few minutes and carefully make his way to the sidelines. Due to a neck injury, he was ruled out of the contest. He reached the sidelines and was wheeled into the dressing room.
Although it’s still unclear how this will affect his availability for the remainder of the upcoming week and the season finale, it’s encouraging that the injury wasn’t more serious.
Valdes-Scantling has been struggling, having dropped his sole target in the first preseason game and not making an impact in the second before being sidelined with a neck injury. This injury could severely hinder his chances of securing a spot on the 53-man roster, despite his experience and the rapport he has developed with Josh Allen.
The Bills are expected to carry six wide receivers into the regular season, with Keon Coleman, Khalil Shakir, and Curtis Samuel firmly positioned at the top. Mack Hollins appears to be the favorite for the fourth spot. Valdes-Scantling faces stiff competition from Tyrell Shavers, K.J. Hamler, and Andy Isabella, with two of the four likely to make the cut. Hamler’s special teams skills could give him an edge.
If Valdes-Scantling cannot participate in the final week of training camp before the third preseason game, it will likely result in more opportunities for the other candidates. His position on the team is precarious.
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