Orchard Park, N.Y. (WGR Sports Radio 550) - A day after solidifying its 16-man practice squad, the Buffalo Bills made two new additions to the group on Thursday with the signing of safety Lewis Cine and wide receiver Jalen Virgil.
Cine was a former first-round pick (32nd overall) of the Minnesota Vikings just two years ago out of the University of Georgia.
During his rookie season in Minnesota, Cine played in just three games before suffering a season-ending injury during a game against the New Orleans Saints in London, England. He ended up suffering a compound fracture of his lower leg while covering a punt return.
Cine was able to make a full recovery, but was limited to just seven games in 2023 due to some struggles in his game that left him inactive for several games during the year.
Shortly after his release from the Vikings as part of roster cuts on Tuesday, it was reported that Cine was set to join the New York Jets and sign with their practice squad. However, the 24-year-old changed course at the last minute to join the Bills' practice squad.
Even though the Bills had the maximum 16 players already on the practice squad at the time of Cine's signing, the team did not need to make a subsequent roster move to create an opening. That's because defensive end Kingsley Jonathan has as international player exemption on the roster.
Later on Thursday, the Bills added Virgil, who was recently cut by the Denver Broncos after spending two seasons with the team.
The 26-year-old spent the 2023 season on Injured Reserve, but was able to see action in nine games in 2022, where he had two catches for 75 yards and a touchdown.
To make room for the Virgil signing, the Bills released wide receiver Deon Cain from the practice squad.
The Bills will kick off the 2024 season next Sunday, Sept. 8 at 1 p.m. ET with a matchup against the Arizona Cardinals at Highmark Stadium.
