Buffalo Rumblings
The Bills have prioritized zone-cover ability in the past, while also running the most man cover under HC Sean McDermott in 2025. What’s the draft play at CB?
Cornerback is once again observed as a key position on the Buffalo Bills’ draft needs list. In 2022, they whiffed on Kaiir Elam but found a diamond in the rough with Christian Benford in Round 6.
I believe it’s a safe bet that Buffalo takes a cornerback at some point during the 2025 NFL Draft, maybe even multiple selecting multiple prospects. That being said, below are the top three cornerbacks who I see as best fits for Buffalo.
These top three “fits” aren’t necessarily who I believe are the best prospects, but rather players who go well with what the Bills are looking for at cornerback. Some of these prospects are projected high-round picks, and others’ names might be called on Day 3 of the draft.
Maxwell Hairston ran the fastest 40-yard dash (4.28 seconds) at the NFL Scouting Combine. Speed isn’t his only attribute: He’s a smooth mover who has the burst to stay in phase at any point of the route. Yes, he’s smaller at 5’11” and 179 pounds, but he brings truly elite athleticism to the position.
Hairston has three career pick-sixes, which points to his elite play-making ability. He can be a true lockdown outside corner, and I see the potential for him to be an instant impact player for Buffalo’s secondary.
Jahdae Barron is an undersized corner, but that doesn’t deter him from being an impact player from anywhere on the field. Whether he’s lined up inside over the slot or at the outside corner, Barron found ways to make plays.
Barron’s versatility is something the Bills covet, and I could see Buffalo utilizing him inside or outside to make sure the defense is matched up to their advantage. His ability to play nickel corner also provides insurance for Taron Johnson.
Barron had five interceptions in 2024 and has a fantastic feel for sorting out routes in zone coverage, something Buffalo has likely drooled over. I’m not sure if he’ll fall to pick 30, but he would look good in a Bills uniform.
Dorian Strong is a taller corner standing at 6’1”, and his best attributes are highlighted when playing zone coverage. He has a natural feel for route combinations and how offenses are trying to attack him, which consistently puts him in good positions.
Strong is better in zone but can hold his own when put on an island. He isn’t the best athlete on the field, but his instincts and football IQ make up for it. Strong is a late-round corner option who could be the next steal by general manager Brandon Beane.
