Bishop played all 17 games last season, finishing with 85 tackles (53 solo), two sacks, and three interceptions. He was a key contributor on Buffalo’s defense, especially in terms of snap share. Last season, Bishop led the Bills in defensive snaps, appearing on 91.1% of defensive plays. He earned a 70.8 defensive grade from Pro Football Focus, ranking 23rd among 98 eligible safeties, with a coverage grade of 73.7, placing him 16th at the position.
The Bills are installing a new defensive scheme under coordinator Jim Leonhard, which makes Bishop’s health and participation even more important as veterans report to training camp on July 28 in Rochester, New York.
Buffalo’s secondary is undergoing changes ahead of the season. As of a month before training camp, safeties Jordan Poyer and Taylor Rapp remained unsigned in free agency. The team did re-sign safety Demar Hamlin and added free agents C.J. Gardner-Jenhs on and Geno Stone in free agency. They also drafted South Carolina’s Jalon Kilgore in the fifth round (167th overall).
Gardner-Johnson, who split last season between the Houston Texans and Chicago Bears, is expected to start alongside Bishop. He posted 66 tackles (46 solo), three sacks, and two interceptions in his recent NFL experience.
In 33 career games, Bishop has 125 tackles (78 solo), two sacks, one forced fumble, and three interceptions. Under new head coach Joe Brady, the Bills kickoff the preseason on August 15 at home against the Carolina Panthers.
Notes:
– Bishop has indicated a positive outlook for training camp and recovery timeline.
– The team’s defensive overhaul and new coaching staff underscore the importance of Bishop’s return to form.
– The Bills’ preseason schedule includes the August 15 game against Carolina.
