This training camp for the Buffalo Bills was going to be a crucial one for cornerback Kaiir Elam. The former first-round pick in 2022 was drafted by the Bills in hopes that he would develop into a quality starter for the future (as well as to hold down the fort while Tre’Davious White was recovering from a torn ACL). However, that has not been the case through two seasons.
During his rookie season, Elam had flashes of greatness at times but he went down hill last season. He was very underproductive to the point where he was a healthy scratch at times last season. There was a major concern with him, seeing as how he couldn’t seem to outperform teammate Christian Benford, who eventually earned starter status along with Rasul Douglas down the stretch. Through two seasons, Elam has played in just 16 games (starting in eight) and has recorded just two interceptions and 55 total tackles. It is not the most impressive whatsoever for a first round pick.
As training camp approached, he was going to need to show that he can go from bust status to starter level. He had been written off throughout the offseason but Elam has reportedly been impressive throughout training camp according to Alex Brasky.
Can Elam keep up his production?
Elam has been impressive at St. John Fisher University and he was able to show it on display at Highmark Stadium at the Return of the Red and Blue practice. The third year corner made various plays where he found himself creating turnovers and not letting receivers get past him. Matt Parrino even reported that Elam made a play by intercepting Josh Allen and was playing with a lot of confidence in front of Bills Mafia.
Josh Allen intercepted by Kaiir Elam at the end of 7on7. The kid is playing with amazing confidence right now. Took a moment to let the offense hear it. Allen was looking for MVS on the play.
— Matt Parrino (@MattParrino) August 2, 2024
One factor that could be helping Elam’s development is the coaching style of cornerbacks coach Jahmile Addae, in which Muki Hawkins commented on how Addae’s “coaching up” towards Elam has been beneficial.
Love how Bills DBs Coach Jaimie Addae coaches Kaiir Elam up every play….
— Muki Hawkins (@wufosports) August 2, 2024
Seeing the progression with Elam through training camp should be heavily encouraging for Bills fans. Elam has not proven to be a lot of value to Buffalo. This season will be crucial for him because the Bills will have to make the decision on whether or not to pick up Elam’s fifth-year option. Unless Elam has a complete bounceback season and solidifies himself as a top ten cornerback, he more than likely will be heading into a contract year next season.
While Elam has impressed so far, the preseason will be a big test to see if Elam has the chance to become a starter or be stuck at the same level he has been at. Hopefully Elam can keep proving his worth and surprise a lot of fans who have been doubting him.