Stone, a seventh-round pick in 2020, has progressed to a full-time starter role and arrives in Buffalo after a productive two-year stint with Cincinnati. He posted career highs in tackles and sacks last season and brings 14 career interceptions and 21 passes defended to the Bills’ defense.
In Cincinnati, Stone started all 34 games over two seasons, earning a notable role as an in-the-box safety. His versatility should help complement the Bills’ existing assets, including the recently signed C.J. Gardner-Jonhson, as Buffalo looks to revamp its safety depth further.
Buffalo released Taylor Rapp earlier in the offseason, creating an opening at safety that the team has sought to fill with added competition and depth. Stone’s one-year deal gives the Bills a low-risk option that could provide immediate contributions while the organization continues to evaluate longer-term options.
The Bills’ secondary figure remains fluid heading into the 2026 season, with Stone and Gardner-Johnson providing diverse skill sets for head coach and defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard to map out roles. Stone’s resume suggests the Bills expect him to be a reliable starter or high-impact rotational player.
Beyond safety, Buffalo has already pursued other notable moves, including acquiring D.J. Moore in a trade and signing Bradley Chubb to a multi-year contract. The front office has signaled a broader strategy to balance big swings with thoughtful, complementary acquisitions.
As free agency progresses and the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, Buffalo fans can anticipate further roster refinement. The Bills are clearly prioritizing a versatile, well-rounded defense capable of adapting to multiple schemes and matchups, with Stone positioned to contribute in immediate and future plans.
