What happened to Damar Hamlin's starting job with the Buffalo Bills?

Damar Hamlin, the inspirational Buffalo Bills safety, has lost his starting job as the team has decided to go with Cole Bishop and Taylor Rapp as their starting safeties for the 2025 NFL season.

Why did the Buffalo Bills decide to bench Damar Hamlin?

The Bills felt they had a better safety duo in Cole Bishop and Taylor Rapp, and Hamlin's on-field performance did not match his inspirational off-field impact, leading to the decision to relegate him to a smaller role this season.

How will Damar Hamlin's reduced role impact the Buffalo Bills in 2025?

While Hamlin will still see the field, his playing time is expected to be reduced compared to the past two seasons. This means Hamlin will likely have a quieter NFL season, at least to start, as the team focuses on finding the best defensive lineup.

Home / Sports / Damar Hamlin Loses Starting Safety Job in Surprise Bills Roster Shakeup

Damar Hamlin Loses Starting Safety Job in Surprise Bills Roster Shakeup

7 Sep

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Summary

Damar Hamlin no longer expected to start as safety for the Buffalo Bills
Cole Bishop and Taylor Rapp to start in defensive positions instead
Hamlin's impact on the world remains, but his NFL role reduced this season

Damar Hamlin Loses Starting Safety Job in Surprise Bills Roster Shakeup

In a surprising move, the Buffalo Bills have decided to bench Damar Hamlin, one of the NFL's most inspirational players, from his starting safety position. As of September 8th, 2025, Hamlin is no longer expected to play a significant role in the Bills' defense, with Cole Bishop and Taylor Rapp slated to start in the deep defensive positions.

Hamlin's story captivated the league and its fans after his near-death experience on the field in 2023. He not only survived but also became a public figure, raising money for important causes. However, his on-field performance has not matched his inspirational off-field impact. The Bills felt they had a better safety duo in Bishop and Rapp, relegating Hamlin to a smaller role this season.

While Hamlin will still see the field, his playing time is expected to be reduced compared to the past two seasons. The Bills' decision does not lessen Hamlin's overall impact, but it does mean he will likely have a quieter NFL season, at least to start. The team's focus has shifted to finding the best defensive lineup, even if it means moving on from one of the league's most inspiring comeback stories.

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