In a strategic move to bolster their roster, the Buffalo Bills have officially signed Greg Dortch, a versatile player who can significantly contribute both as a wide receiver and a punt returner. This announcement has generated excitement among fans, particularly regarding who will take on the punt return duties this season.
Dortch, who has accumulated 99 career punt returns in the NFL, boasts an impressive average of 11.6 yards per return in the 2025 season. His experience in this role adds a layer of reliability to the Bills' special teams, an area where they have sought improvement. The decision to bring in Dortch appears to be a thoughtful response to the team's recent struggles in this department.
However, Dortch's potential impact goes beyond special teams. The Bills' receiving corps has faced challenges in recent seasons, particularly with injuries and a lack of dynamic playmakers. The team's new offensive coordinator, Joe Brady, has already made significant changes, including trading for D.J. Moore, to enhance the receiving options available to quarterback Josh Allen. Last season, the Bills relied heavily on players like Tyrell Shavers, Gabe Davis, Mecole Hardman, and Brandin Cooks, who were brought in mid-season. This reliance on less established players highlighted the need for more reliable targets.
With the addition of Dortch, who has recorded 145 career receptions, the Bills are looking to address their ongoing issues with man-coverage separation. This has been a recurring theme for the team, especially following a disappointing performance against the Houston Texans in 2024, where Allen struggled to find open receivers. The Bills' offensive strategy has been hampered by the inability of receivers to create separation, leading to missed opportunities in critical moments.
Dortch's ability to get open against man coverage is particularly noteworthy. Although he did not run a high volume of routes last season, his metrics show promise. He ranked 26th among 149 receivers in man-coverage separation, a statistic that should resonate with the Bills, who have faced difficulties in this area since the departure of Stefon Diggs. His skill set could mirror that of former Bills receiver Isaiah McKenzie, but with added agility and effectiveness after the catch.
Notably, Dortch has forced 25 missed tackles on 79 targets over the past two seasons, showcasing his ability to make plays after the reception. In contrast, McKenzie managed to force 29 missed tackles on 214 targets throughout his seven-year career. This highlights Dortch's potential to not only contribute as a receiver but also to make impactful plays following the catch.
While Dortch's average depth of target (aDOT) has been low, at 4.8 yards, he has primarily been utilized as a screen option in Arizona. This mirrors McKenzie’s role during his time with the Bills when he had a similar aDOT. If the Bills can effectively integrate Dortch into their offensive scheme, he could provide a significant boost to their passing game.
As the Bills prepare for the upcoming season, Dortch's role will likely evolve beyond just a return specialist. His ability to create separation and make plays after the catch could be exactly what the Bills need to enhance their offensive productivity and special teams effectiveness.
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