The Bills’ regular-season opener is scheduled for September 13 on the road against the Houston Texans.
Damar Hamlin’s Future with the Bills Negotiated a Murky Outlook
Hamlin signed a one-year deal with limited guaranteed money to remain with Buffalo and ultimately secured a roster spot. Despite his return, questions linger about his long-term role. A Bills analyst noted that Hamlin has repeatedly earned a place on the team through the preseason, despite limited playing time in the previous season due to injury, and has taken a roster spot from Geno Stone.
As the Bills look ahead, they have Cole Bishop under contract beyond this season and have drafted Jalon Kilgore, who could develop into a valuable contributor. If the starting safeties become Bishop and Kilgore, or if the team opts to bring back another combination such as Bishop and C.J. Gardner-Johnson, the logic suggests adding another safety through the draft could be more beneficial than re-signing Hamlin on another short-term deal. Hamlin now serves as a depth safety, and a Day 3 safety addition could be a plausible replacement if the Bills decide to move on in the future.
Hamlin has spent his entire NFL career with Buffalo. He was selected in the sixth round of the 2021 NFL Draft. He appeared in only five games last season due to injuries.
Unique Approach to the Secondary
The Bills’ 53-man roster features just three boundary corners, a decision that drew attention. General Manager Brandon Beane explained the strategy, expressing confidence in the players already on the roster and highlighting flexibility at the position. Beane praised the depth at other spots and noted that Dee Alford serves as the starting nickel, with Jordan Hancock contributing at multiple roles. He emphasized the team’s ability to adjust if injuries or other factors necessitate moving players around, aiming to maintain versatility across the secondary.
Buffalo is favored by 1.5 points in Week 1 against Houston, reflecting confidence in the roster as they begin the season.
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