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Sammy Watkins returns to Bills practice with zero limitations

Aug 8, 2014; Charlotte, NC, USA; Buffalo Bills wide receiver Sammy Watkins (14) stands on the field prior to the start of the game against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 8, 2014; Charlotte, NC, USA; Buffalo Bills wide receiver Sammy Watkins (14) stands on the field prior to the start of the game against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports

Sammy Watkins is feeling much better after dealing with bruised ribs for the last nine days since he suffered the injury in the Buffalo Bills second preseason game.

The Bills’ first round pick missed a day of practice last week when he returned to the practice field, the former Clemson star was limited in what he could do and held out of team drills. On Monday, Watkins practiced with no limitations as he looks to be healthy and ready for the regular season opener in two weeks.

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Watkins did not play in the team’s third preseason game over the weekend and is unlikely to play in the team’s fourth and final preseason game on Thursday to ensure he is 100 percent for the regular season openere.

Bills head coach Doug Marrone said some starters, including quarterback E.J. Manuel could see action in the final preseason game traditionally reserved for the reserves and players looking to make the final roster, but don’t hold your breathe waiting to see the No. 4 pick in the draft.

Buffalo has high expectations for Watkins in his rookie season after trading up five spots to select the All-American wide receiver and give up next year’s first round pick in the process.

Watkins has the potential to be on the same level with the elite receivers in the NFL very soon, but a lot of that will depend on the development of Manuel who has not taken the leap in his second season so far in the preseason.