When Joe Brady took over as the Bills’ offensive coordinator midway through the 2023 season, wide receiver Khalil Shakir’s role in the offense began to expand and he’s since become a key target for quarterback Josh Allen.
Originally drafted in the fifth round in 2022 as a depth piece, Shakir has developed into a dependable starter. His breakout moment came in Week 11 of the 2023 season against the Jets, where he posted his first 100-yard game and scored a touchdown. Despite Brady’s “everybody eats” approach on offense, Shakir has clearly emerged as one of Allen’s most trusted weapons.
Shakir has been remarkably efficient, catching nearly 76% of his targets across his first three seasons. In 2024, he hit career highs with 100 targets, 76 receptions, 821 yards, and four touchdowns leading all Bills receivers in targets, just ahead of tight end Dalton Kincaid.
PFF’s Recognition and Why It’s Deserved
Jonathon Macri of Pro Football Focus recently named Shakir as the Bills’ most underrated player heading into 2025. While that label might underplay Shakir’s contributions, Macri highlighted the receiver’s importance, especially in Stefon Diggs’ absence last season.
“Shakir has been a stable contributor for the Bills’ receiving corps over the past two seasons, and he stepped up significantly in 2024… leading the team in targets (115), receiving yards (995), PFF receiving grade (80.1), and yards per route run (2.20),” Macri noted. “Shakir placed in the top 25 for the position in all of those categories.”
His strong play even earned him a four-year contract extension this offseason. As a true slot receiver, Shakir fits seamlessly into Brady’s offensive system and consistently delivers with reliable hands and double-digit yards per reception.
Should Someone Else Have Gotten the “Underrated” Tag?
While Shakir’s contributions are undeniable, some argue another name might have fit the “underrated” label better like running back Ray Davis. With ongoing uncertainty surrounding James Cook’s contract status, Davis, who flashed potential last season, could emerge as a future starter. But for now, it’s clear Shakir’s role and production make him one of the most vital and perhaps still underappreciated pieces in Buffalo’s offense.
