Bills new receivers coach Ike Hilliard had a 12-year playing career. The former first-round pick played for the Giants and Buccaneers and appearing in a Super Bowl with New York. Hilliard’s career was cut short by a neck injury, but began a coaching career soon after.

“I’ve been extremely blessed,” Hilliard said. “Being fortunate enough to transition so quickly after playing is something that is very unique. I’ve been coached by some outstanding coaches, so I’ve learned a lot throughout the years. I’ve made a lot of mistakes, learned from those. I’ve had some success and I’m hoping to be able to lean on my experience as a player to give to our guys in our room and be able to help them improve their game and be successful players.”

Hilliard’s 12 years as a player makes him one of the most experienced receivers coaches from a playing perspective in team annals. Not since the days when Hall of Fame wide receiver Charlie Joiner was Buffalo’s receivers coach (1992-2000) has Buffalo’s receivers had a former NFL receiver coaching them. Joiner played 18 seasons in the league and just retired earlier this week after a combined 44 years in the NFL playing and coaching.

Hilliard told Buffalobills.com that Stevie Johnson would still have the latitude to use his unconventional route running style in Buffalo’s new offensive system.