Buffalo Bills: A look back at the 2022 draft class

Round 6: Christian Benford

In the sixth round in 2022, the Bills selected cornerback Christian Benford out of Villanova. Benford had an interesting season for the Bills in 2022, much of which indicates that he is in line for a much larger role with the team moving forward.

Despite being drafted 5 rounds after Kaiir Elam, it was Benford who opened the season as a Bills starter at corner, lining up opposite Dane Jackson who was starting in place of Tre’Davious White as he worked his way back from his ACL reconstruction.

In nine games, Benford recorded 17 tackles and one interception, showing that he could more than hold his own at the NFL level. Unfortunately, Benford suffered an oblique injury during the Bills Thanksgiving Day win over the Detroit Lions. He was placed on injured reserve and did not return to the Bills active roster until the season finale against New England, and did not log a snap after his return.

Entering 2023, Benford looks to be a solid depth option for the Bills, capable of filling in as a starter at cornerback when healthy. He also is a prime candidate to see time at safety. The Bills staff values positional versatility and being a multi-positional backup and depth option could make Benford a very valuable player for the Bills in 2023.