Buffalo Bills quick reaction 2022 NFL Draft grades: Christian Benford

Buffalo Bills add depth to their secondary with the selection of Christian Benford out of Villanova

A few picks after drafting punter Matt Araiza, the Buffalo Bills drafted their second cornerback of the 2022 NFL Draft with the selection of Christian Benford out of Villanova in the sixth round (185th overall). Last year with Villanova he had 39 total tackles, seven interceptions, and 18 pass breakups. He was named to the CAA Football First Team Defense last year as well.

He is a big cornerback at 6’1″ and 205 pounds however the scouting report on Pro Football Network may see Benford making a position switch in the NFL.

Grade for the Buffalo Bills selecting Christian Benford: B-

The Buffalo Bills used their first round pick on Kaiir Elam which really helps solidify the position and he should be a Week 1 starter for this team. He will either be stepping in for Tre’Davious White, who is working his way back from an ACL injury or potentially beating out Dane Jackson for that number two spot if White is ready for the start of the season.

Christian Benford though doesn’t have as clear of a path to playing time as a rookie and he could be viewed as a potential replacement for Jordan Poyer, who is entering the final year of his contract. While he is a cornerback the scouting report on PFN does believe he may be better as a safety due to a lack of speed and his combination of size and physicality.

The biggest question though is whether or not the Buffalo Bills will have the space on their 53-man roster for Christian Benford. The team the past few years has lost a few of their draft picks, like cornerback Rachaad Wildgoose and offensive lineman Jack Anderson last year, to other teams when they were picked off their practice squad.

If he remains and can make the switch to safety, this would end up being a steal for this team.