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sports1d ago
Two Buffalo Bills Defensive Backs Identified as 2026 Breakout Candidates
- The Bills’ 2026 defense is under a new scheme led by Jim Leonhard, with optimism from Ed Oliver.
- Maxwell Hairston is viewed as a potential breakout if he stays healthy in 2026.
- Cole Bishop already showed playmaking ability in 2025 and could advance further.
- Bishop led Buffalo in tackles and interceptions last season, indicating rising prominence.
- The Bills begin mandatory camp after voluntary OTAs, with June 9–11 on the calendar.
- Leonhard’s system change is expected to influence the secondary’s performance positively.
- Hairston’s rookie injury history limited him to 11 games, affecting development.
- Hairston had 18 tackles, five passes defended, and two interceptions in limited play.
- Bishop’s 2025 season included 85 tackles, two sacks, seven pass breakups, and three interceptions.
- The piece frames Hairston and Bishop as the top 2026 breakout candidates per Bleacher Report's Kristopher Knox.
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