**Ryan O’Halloran: Non-Cooper Bills pass catchers send message – don’t sleep on us**
The Buffalo Bills’ offense has long been synonymous with its star quarterback Josh Allen and premier receiver Stefon Diggs. However, in the early stages of the 2024 NFL season, another group of players is quietly emerging from the shadows, delivering a strong message: the non-Cooper pass catchers deserve recognition too.
The term “non-Cooper” refers to the Bills’ pass catchers outside of tight end Dalton Kincaid and wide receiver Stefon Diggs. With so much attention on the star duo, other players like Gabriel Davis, Khalil Shakir, and tight end Dawson Knox have consistently found ways to contribute. Their impact was particularly noticeable in Buffalo’s recent performances, where Allen spread the ball around, utilizing all his receiving options.
Gabriel Davis, who has shown flashes of brilliance throughout his career, is proving that he can be more than just a secondary option. In 2024, he’s been a reliable deep threat, making critical plays when defenses focus too heavily on Diggs. His ability to create separation and make contested catches offers Allen another potent weapon, allowing the offense to stay unpredictable.
Khalil Shakir, though often overlooked, has also stepped up. Shakir has been key in third-down situations, securing catches in tight windows and providing a reliable target in the slot. While not as flashy as Diggs or Davis, his contributions are crucial for extending drives and maintaining offensive balance.
Dawson Knox, already a solid red-zone target, continues to be a dependable presence in both the passing game and blocking schemes. His chemistry with Allen is evident, especially in short-yardage situations where defenses expect the ball to go elsewhere.
What stands out is how Buffalo’s offensive coaching staff is increasingly trusting these players to execute in critical moments. Rather than forcing the ball to the big names, Allen has displayed growing confidence in his non-Cooper receivers, distributing passes efficiently. This flexibility has made the Bills’ offense more dynamic and harder for defenses to predict.
In a league where top-tier talent often garners most of the spotlight, the Bills’ lesser-heralded pass catchers are proving that they can deliver in clutch moments. As the season progresses, defenses would be wise not to underestimate them.
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