Buffalo Bills safety Cole Bishop enjoyed a strong first season as a full-time starter, posting career highs in every major statistical category, finishing first on the team in tackles and interceptions, and second in pass deflections. Bishop totaled 85 tackles, four tackles for loss, two sacks, three interceptions, and seven pass deflections in 17 regular-season starts and accounted for 91% of defensive snaps. He also added 14 tackles, two tackles for loss, one interception, and one pass deflection in the playoffs.
Despite starting every game and logging more than 1,000 snaps, Cole Bishop battled a lingering injury that has caused him to miss spring practices, including OTAs and mandatory minicamp.
The Buffalo Bills interceptions leader is expected back for training camp after a procedure
Buffalo Bills safety Cole Bishop (24) runs off the field after defeating the Jaguars during an NFL football AFC Wild Card playoff matchup, Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, in Jacksonville, Fla. Bills lead 10-7 at the half over the Jaguars. The Bills defeated the Jaguars 27-24. [Doug Engle/Florida Times-Union]
During a conversation with Alaina Getzenberg of ESPN NFL Nation,Cole Bishop said he underwent a minor left knee scope and a cleanup procedure to address a lingering issue. Although the procedure has kept him out of organized team activities and mandatory minicamp, the former second-round pick is expected to be ready for training camp. Once Bishop returns in July, he will need to catch up on the field since the Bills transitioned from a 4-3 to a 3-4 scheme under new defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard.
Bills safety Cole Bishop said that he had a scope on his left knee this offseason. Something that was lingering, but referenced looking forward to getting on the field for training camp. Hasn’t been on the field participating during any portion open to the media this offseason.
— Alaina Getzenberg (@agetzenberg) June 10, 2026
Although it has yet to be revealed, Geno Stone more than likely received some first-team reps this offseason alongside C.J. Gardner-Johnson. The Bills signed the ballhawk with 14 career interceptions for much-needed safety depth after the team released Taylor Rapp while Darnell Savage Jr. signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers, and Jordan Poyer remains unsigned. Stone spent the past two seasons with the Cincinnati Bengals, during which he totaled six interceptions, two pass breakups, and ten pass deflections across 34 starts.
Jalon Kilgore also likely saw an extended look at safety. The versatile defensive back played in the slot, in the box, and at deep safety in college with the South Carolina Gamecocks. Kilgore may also compete for slot duties against Dee Alford this offseason.
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