The Buffalo Bills’ cornerback position has experienced significant transformations over the past few years, primarily due to injuries, draft disappointments, and changes in personnel. The Bills’ defense now looks to solidify this crucial area as they prepare for the 2025 season, spearheaded by the long-term contract extension of their standout cornerback, Christian Benford, who is expected to play a pivotal role in the team’s defensive strategies through 2029.
This offseason has seen considerable shake-ups, starting with the release of Rasul Douglas and the trade of former first-round pick Kaiir Elam to the Dallas Cowboys after a lackluster three-season stint. The Bills are hoping to revitalize their cornerback corps with several fresh additions. Among these are Tre’Davious White and Dane Jackson, both veterans who return to the team on one-year contracts. They will bring a combined total of 100 games started in their previous seasons with the Bills, lending experience to an otherwise youthful group.
The Bills made a notable investment in their cornerback future by selecting Maxwell Hairston from Kentucky with their top draft pick, alongside late-round choice Dorian Strong. Hairston is garnering attention for his remarkable athleticism and potential, setting him apart as a candidate to start, particularly in a competition against White, who may be transitioning into a backup role after years of injury setbacks.
The competition for starting positions is heating up, with Hairston looking to seize the opportunity and showcase his explosiveness on the field. If he proves capable, he could fulfill the Bills’ need for a cornerback who can effectively handle man coverage, an area where prior players struggled during critical games.
On the bubble are Dane Jackson and Ja’Marcus Ingram, both vying for a role among the final roster. The Bills are likely to retain only five boundary cornerbacks, which puts Jackson and Ingram in a tight spot, as their performances in training camp and special teams will be crucial for their survival. Jackson has an advantage due to his experience and contractual situation, while Strong also has a fighting chance due to his college performance and ability to contribute on special teams.
As they head into training camp, the Bills will be monitoring the cornerback position closely to ensure they maximize the potential of each player. The hope is that the influx of fresh talent, combined with the experience of returning veterans, will contribute to a stronger and more versatile defense in the 2025 season.