Another Florida Gator is heading to Buffalo. This time it’s a 6’4″ potential red zone weapon for Josh Allen to utilize.
Justin Shorter was a top-30 visit that also had a private workout with the team. A big-time target with a massive wingspan that could provide depth to a Bills team that had very little on the outside.
A former 5-star recruit out of high school, Shorter was a big play receiver as he averaged 19.9 yards per reception in his final season at Florida. He caught 29 passes for 577 yards and two touchdowns with ZERO drops in 2022-23, per PFF.
Justin Shorter is a Buffalo Bill here in the 5th round
Heading into the NFL Draft, the Buffalo Bills had only one receiver above 6’1″ that played more than five games last season (Gabe Davis). While he will need to work on his route running and ability to separate, Shorter isn’t afraid to play physical and has the ability to make difficult catches. He ran a 4.55 second 40-yard dash and tracks the deep ball very well. It was important to add weapons with size and they’ve done that in this draft by adding tight end Dalton Kincaid and now Shorter.
Shorter will have his work cut out for him trying to get playing time as the Bills brought in two receivers in free agency in addition to the receivers they already had.
It seems that he’s ready and excited for the challenge. According to Bills reporter Maddy Glab, “[Shorter] started screaming and thanking God when he knew he was going to get drafted by the Bills.” It will be exciting to see what he brings to the table at the Bills training camp this August.
