ORCHARD PARK - Keleki Latu, the tight end for the Buffalo Bills, faced a nerve-wracking weekend similar to many NFL hopefuls, anxiously awaiting news about his future with the team. As the Bills finalized their initial 53-man roster, Latu found himself in a waiting game, hoping for a call that would confirm his place on the squad.
In the NFL, the process is straightforward: players only receive calls if they have not made the team. As the hours passed on Saturday and Sunday, Latu relied on his agent for updates, feeling the pressure of uncertainty. However, when the Bills announced their final cuts a little after dinner on Sunday, Latu's name was notably absent from the list, confirming that he had made the team.
"I didn't feel like it was real to be honest," Latu remarked after practice on Tuesday. He shared the news with his family, including his brother Laiatu Latu, who plays defensive end for the Indianapolis Colts. The excitement of making the roster was palpable as he looked forward to reuniting with his teammates.
His inclusion in the roster was somewhat unexpected, as the Bills typically carry three tight ends and place another on the practice squad. Instead, the team opted to go without a fullback, releasing Ben VanSumeren, who was quickly picked up by the Kansas City Chiefs. This decision allowed Latu to secure a spot on the active roster.
Latu joined the Bills as an undrafted free agent last year and managed to earn a practice squad position. He was elevated to the active roster when Dalton Kincaid suffered an injury, appearing in five games and recording four receptions for 35 yards, three of which resulted in first downs. His development over the past year has impressed the Bills' management.
Brandon Beane, the Bills' president and general manager, praised Latu's growth, noting how he has improved significantly since last year's rookie camp. Beane highlighted Latu's increased strength and run-blocking skills, which have made him a more complete tight end. "He’s a guy that Josh Allen and all of his offensive teammates trust," Beane stated, emphasizing Latu's hard work and dedication to honing his skills.
As Latu began to process his achievement during practice, he reflected on the significance of stepping into the huddle with the starting offense. "It does feel real," he said, expressing his desire to prove himself among the veterans on the team. He acknowledged the wealth of experience and accomplishments of his teammates, stating, "They’re my family, they’re my brothers."
While it is unlikely that the Bills will have four tight ends active on game days, Latu's role remains crucial. With Kincaid, Dawson Knox, and Jackson Hawes already established in their positions, Latu will be poised to step in if needed. His time on the practice squad last year was not spent idly; he used it as an opportunity to learn and prepare for this moment.
"I just looked at it as an opportunity to learn from the veterans," Latu explained. He is eager to absorb knowledge from his teammates, particularly in refining his route running and blocking techniques. With a strong work ethic and a commitment to improvement, Latu is determined to make the most of his opportunity on the Bills' roster.
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