After much speculation, the Bills officially announced Virgil’s signing on Thursday afternoon
The Buffalo Bills have added wide receiver Jalen Virgil to their practice squad as part of their efforts to revamp their receiving corps, which underwent significant changes this offseason. Virgil, a developing boundary x-receiver with experience as a return specialist, joins the team in this ongoing transformation.
Virgil initially joined the Denver Broncos as an undrafted free agent after the 2022 NFL Draft. At 6’1” and 210 pounds, the 26-year-old from Appalachian State was highly regarded for his speed prior to the draft. Despite the buzz, his pro day results didn’t match the hype: he ran a 4.40-second 40-yard dash and had a 10-yard split time of 1.59 seconds, suggesting a lack of explosive short-area speed.
His three-cone drill time of 7.15 seconds further undermined his pre-draft reputation, which had been bolstered by his 10.29-second 100-meter time.
Signed WR Jalen Virgil to the Bills practice squad.
More info on Virgil ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/Poid948o4i
— Buffalo Bills PR (@BuffaloBillsPR) August 29, 2024
Scouts ultimately concluded that Virgil lacked elite speed but might excel as a contested-catch receiver due to his other athletic attributes. While his speed is more apparent on film than in testing, Virgil’s college career at Appalachian State saw him record 98 catches for 1,436 yards and 11 touchdowns over five seasons. His best season included 24 catches for 383 yards and four touchdowns, along with 10 carries for 42 yards and one touchdown. As a kick returner, he amassed 1,142 yards and three touchdowns on 37 returns.
Virgil’s NFL career has been challenging; he played nine games, including one start, with the Broncos in 2022, making two catches for 75 yards and one touchdown, with a fumble and a 21-yard kick return. His debut catch was a 66-yard touchdown from Russell Wilson. Virgil spent the entire 2023 season on Injured Reserve.
The future is uncertain for Virgil under head coach Sean McDermott, but he is currently a developmental prospect working to make an impact. He might also contend for a role as a kick returner with the Bills.
To accommodate Virgil on their 17-player practice squad, the Bills have released wide receiver Deon Cain.
