Scouring the massive pool of free agents after roster cut downs, the Buffalo Bills looked for speed in both the offense and kick return game, signing WR Jalen Virgil to the practice squad.
Virgil comes to Buffalo after spending two seasons with the Denver Broncos following a decorated career at Appalachian State. He has flashed 10.29 speed in the 100 meter dash but that hasn’t quite translated into sustained success on the field.
Below is Jalen Virgil’s publicly reported injury history and analysis.
Injury History
College
2020 Appalachian State
Leg injuries, missed 3 total games.
Virgil suffered a leg injury against Marshall in Week 2 of the 2020 season and missed the following three games. Details of the exact injury are unavailable.
NFL
2022 Denver Broncos
No publicly reported injuries.
2023 Broncos
Torn meniscus right knee, preseason, missed entire season.
As seen in the play below, Virgil suffered a torn meniscus when he was tackled just short of the goal line during the preseason versus the San Francisco 49ers. He underwent surgery and was placed on injured reserve to miss the season.
Injury Analysis
There isn’t much concern for Virgil’s injury history which is promising given how fast he is which often comes with soft tissue injuries such as hamstrings and calf. It’s possible that he did suffer that type of injury while in college, but those details are not available.
Coming off his meniscus repair, it is promising that the Bills value his speed and know that he is healthy enough to contribute. The meniscus repair is the safer, long term option and helps reduce the chances for arthritic changes in the knee as compared to a meniscectomy. I have not found anything that states that there is a decrease in production in players coming off a meniscal repair, but knowing he is a year removed from the injury is satisfying.
I have zero concerns with Virgil’s injury history but will be wary of any muscle strains given his speed pedigree. Given that he is on the practice squad, this allows him to acclimate and avoid beating his body up every week for now.
I wish Jalen Virgil the best of luck this season and to remain healthy.
Top Photo Credit: USA Today
