When you look at the roster for the Buffalo Bills, they are in really good shape. Even though they may have a weakness in one spot compared to another, there is no glaring need. Brandon Beane had one of his best offseasons as the general manager by bringing in help on defense in both free agency and the NFL draft.
At the same time, they didn’t completely ignore the offense either. They re-signed Ty Johnson and Reggie Gilliam for the backfield, and also brought in veteran receivers like Joshua Palmer, Laviska Shenualt, and Elijah Moore. In addition, they also drafted offensive line and wide receiver depth as well.
Bills might be desperate enough to being back Stephon Gilmore given uncertainty at CB position
Before the backlash happens, we have to think about the cornerback position for the Bills and how there is still some uncertainty until proven otherwise. No one can say that Brandon Beane didn’t address that position, but there are more questions than answers.
Christian Benford is the proven CB1. First round pick Maxwell Hairston does have a lot of upside with his speed, and both Jordan Hancock and Dorian Strong can become really strong late round picks for the Bills in a rotation. In addition, the Bills also brought back familiarity with Tre’Davious White. However, it’s a lot of hope rather than proven facts. Maybe Beane should take another swing at corner with Stephon Gilmore.
The Bills drafted Gilmore in the first round in 2012 and averaged 3 interceptions per season but only played a full season in Buffalo in five seasons. After leaving Buffalo, Gilmore signed with the division rival New England Patriots and became an All-Pro player and won the Defensive Player of the Year award in 2019. He was a true lockdown corner for the Pats for four seasons.
Gilmore has since been a journeyman the last four seasons, having played for the Carolina Panthers, Indianapolis Colts, Dallas Cowboys, and Minnesota Vikings. Nonetheless, he can still produce even as an older corner.
When Gilmore and the Bills split up, it was a sour ending. However, that was back before Sean McDermott and Brandon Beane were in Buffalo together and things are much different now. Getting a player like Gilmore adds an upgraded veteran presence over Tre’Davious White and it provides mentorship to the young guys.