5 Buffalo Bills players that surprised most of us in 2023

Christian Benford - Cornerback

Christian Benford had a solid rookie year, after rotating with first-round pick Kaiir Elam and if not for a mid-season injury, Benford likely would have taken the number two corner spot full-time. Instead, he would have to wait a season to get that opportunity. In the beginning of this season, it was a battle between Elam, Benford, and Dane Jackson for that second spot. It wasn't until after Tre'Davious White's injury that we saw Benford in more of a full-time role. Elam was injured and ultimately placed on IR. Benford hasn't disappointed.

Benford has two interceptions on the year and ten pass breakups, to go with 48 solo tackles. PFF graded him an overall of 82.2, with a coverage grade of 82.4 and a run defense of 75.6. His overall ranks him eighth among all qualifying corners in the league, which ties him with Buffalo's own Rasul Douglas. Benford and Douglas have teamed up to form one of the best cornerback duos in the league and are the only team with two corners in the top ten PFF grades.