The Buffalo Bills traded part of their future to move up in the 2014 NFL Draft to make receiver Sammy Watkins the centerpiece of their offense. On Wednesday, the rookie signed his first NFL contract.
The Billstraded the No. 9 overall pick as well as first- and fourth-round picks in 2015 to the Cleveland Browns to move up and nab Watkins at No. 4 overall.
NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reports that Watkins' deal is fully guranteed at $19.94 million over four years, with a $12.8 million signing bonus. The rookie contract contains offset language.
The 6-foot-1 wide receiver has world-class speed, tracks the ball well and has great hands. His ability to run after the catch and strength to break tackles gives him the aptitude to create big plays.
First-round draft pick signing tracker
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The Bills were so enamored with Watkins a team official said they first tried to trade up to No. 1 overall to grab the pass-catcher.
After trading wideout Stevie Johnson to the San Francisco 49ers during the draft, Watkins now highlights a receiving corps of 2013 second-round pick Robert Woods, newly-acquired Mike Williams, T.J. Graham and speedster Marquise Goodwin.
"By training camp, we should be perfect," Watkins said Wednesday of working with his QB.
As for the haul the Bills gave up to get the dynamic rookie receiver, veteran players weren't worried.
"I might be dead in 2015," defensive tackle Kyle Williams said, per The Buffalo News. "I only care about what's in front of me."
The latest "Around The League Podcast" breaks down the news and discusses players who could be summertime trade targets.
