The Buffalo Bills boast one of the NFL’s strongest rosters, and they’ve continued to build on it this offseason. Following another disappointing defensive showing against the Chiefs in the playoffs, general manager Brandon Beane made it a priority to bolster the defense by bringing in seasoned veterans and promising young talent through the draft.
Additions like Joey Bosa, Maxwell Hairston, T.J. Sanders, and Landon Jackson are expected to help the defense return to form. However, one lingering concern remains heading into the season.
Many analysts view the Bills’ starting safety group as the weakest in the league, with Damar Hamlin and Taylor Rapp expected to start. While neither is considered elite, both bring valuable experience. Buffalo is also hopeful that 2024 second-round pick Cole Bishop can step into a full-time role in his second season.
The team also signed Darrick Forrest, formerly of the Washington Commanders. Though he was a rotational player there—starting 17 games—he did tally four interceptions in 2022, showing he has potential. The Bills are counting on their depth and Bishop’s development to solidify the safety position.
If further reinforcements are needed, one name stands out: free agent Julian Blackmon. In a recent ESPN article, Matt Bowen listed Blackmon as a top unsigned player and suggested Buffalo would be a great fit. Bowen noted that Blackmon’s skill set aligns well with the Bills’ split-field coverage schemes and called him an upgrade over Hamlin. Blackmon had three interceptions in 2023 and has racked up over 85 tackles in each of the last two seasons.
At just 26 years old, and with 62 career starts since 2020, it’s surprising Blackmon remains unsigned. He’s proven to be a strong coverage safety with seven interceptions over the past two years.
While Blackmon would be a clear upgrade and add depth to the Bills’ secondary, the team appears committed to giving Bishop every chance to win the starting job. If he falters during training camp, don’t be surprised if Buffalo revisits the idea of signing Blackmon or another veteran safety. Although outside observers see the safety spot as the Bills’ biggest weakness, the team has confidence in its current group. Time will tell who’s right.