Bills Seek Consistency at Safety Position Ahead of Cutdown Day

As the Buffalo Bills approach the NFL's cutdown day on August 26, the team is focused on finding a consistent starting safety to play alongside Taylor Rapp. Head coach Sean McDermott has expressed concern about the safety position, stating that the Bills are "still looking to find, who is it going to be? And how consistent can they become and how quickly can they grow if they're a younger player?"

One player who has drawn attention is Cole Bishop, the Bills' second-round pick in 2024. Bishop has struggled with injuries, missing the team's first preseason game, and has also had some performance issues in the second game against the Chicago Bears. McDermott has provided a "wake-up call" of sorts for Bishop, acknowledging his potential but emphasizing the need for him to refine his game and become more consistent.

The Bills' wide receiver group is also a point of focus, with McDermott stating that the team is trying to "figure out who the rest of them are and how they can help us." Several players, including Elijah Moore, Curtis Samuel, Tyrell Shavers, Kristian Wilkerson, and Laviska Shenault, are competing for the remaining roster spots behind the top three receivers. The team's decision-making process will be crucial, as they balance the need for talent and special teams contributions.

Additionally, the status of quarterback Josh Allen's preseason participation remains uncertain. Allen has not played in the first two preseason games, and his comments suggest he may not see action in the final game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The Bills' approach to Allen's preseason reps could have implications for the team's overall preparation for the regular season.