Buffalo Bills’ injury problems keep piling up at the worst possible time. Christian Benford appeared ready to play Sunday against the Miami Dolphins after practicing Wednesday, but Thursday brought bad news for the starting cornerback and his team.
Sep 7, 2025; Orchard Park, New York, USA; Detailed view of Buffalo Bills helmet on the field prior to the first quarter against the Baltimore Ravens at Highmark Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images
Sep 7, 2025; Orchard Park, New York, USA; Detailed view of Buffalo Bills helmet on the field prior to the first quarter against the Baltimore Ravens at Highmark Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images
Ralph Ventre from SI.comreported that Benford took a major step backward in his recovery. “In a disappointing development, starting cornerback Christian Benford took a step back,” Ventre wrote. “After limited participation on Wednesday, Benford was downgraded to a non-participant on Thursday due to a groin injury.”
The groin has bothered Benford since September. He appeared on the injury report before the season opener but gutted through the discomfort to play all eight games. Now the injury finally caught up with him heading into a critical division matchup.
Buffalo must rely on first-round rookie Maxwell Hairston if Benford can’t suit up Sunday. “Should Benford be unavailable on Sunday, the Bills will presumably turn to first-round rookie Maxwell Hairston for the start,” Ventre explained.
The coaching staff should feel comfortable making that move. Hairston returned from his own knee injury two weeks ago and looked excellent in limited action. He intercepted Patrick Mahomes during Buffalo’s victory over Kansas City, showing the playmaking ability that made him a first-round selection.
Playing at home for the first time gave Hairston a memorable introduction to Bills Mafia. “Yeah, first time playing here, man,” Hairstonsaid after the Kansas City game. “I won’t lie, beginning of the game I was a little nervous. But I’m like, I’m here for a reason, Bills Mafia is the best, and I was happy to be able to play in front of them.”
Veteran Tre’Davious White provides another option if Buffalo needs more cornerback help. White’s experience becomes valuable when injuries force younger players into bigger roles against division opponents.
The secondary has absorbed brutal losses beyond just Benford’s uncertain status. Buffalo placed safeties Taylor Rapp and Damar Hamlin on injured reserve, creating depth problems at multiple positions. The defensive line suffered even worse damage with Ed Oliver tearing his bicep and Michael Hoecht rupturing his Achilles.
Buffalo Bills See Chance to Gain Ground in AFC East With Miami Dolphins Matchup
Miami presents a favorable matchup despite Buffalo’s injury problems. The Dolphins traded Jaelan Phillips before the deadline, weakening their pass rush. Buffalo already defeated Miami once this season and can complete the sweep with a road victory Sunday.
The Bills trail New England by half a game in the AFC East race. They get an opportunity to gain ground while the Patriots face 7-2 Tampa Bay. Buffalo controls its destiny if it handles business against struggling Miami.
Benford’s absence would hurt, but Buffalo has shown resilience despite mounting injuries. Hairston’s strong play gives the Bills confidence heading into this critical division game. The rookie will need to prove himself again on the road if called upon Sunday.