For nearly a decade, the Buffalo Bills enjoyed rare consistency and excellence at the safety position with Micah Hyde and Jordan Poyer anchoring the backend of the defense. But all eras come to an end. As the team prepares to open training camp at St. John Fisher University later this month, the focus is on the future — and whether the next generation of safeties can restore the position to a strength.
A Changing of the Guard
The Bills entered the 2024 season with a brand-new starting duo at safety, and as expected, there were growing pains. While the unit improved over time, the Bills are counting on significant progress in 2025. The team is banking on Taylor Rapp and Cole Bishop to lead the way as the projected starters, while familiar faces like Damar Hamlin return to provide depth.
Newcomers include veteran Darrick Forrest and fifth-round rookie Jordan Hancock, both of whom are battling for roster spots and roles within the defensive rotation. It’s a different group than Bills fans are used to seeing, but it’s one loaded with opportunity.
Cole Bishop's Breakout Year?
Cole Bishop, the Bills’ second-round pick in 2024, is expected to take on a full-time starting role in 2025. He showed promise in limited action last season, and his performance during spring OTAs signaled growth. Despite missing minicamp with a minor groin injury, Bishop demonstrated leadership, instinct, and communication skills when he was on the field.
The coaching staff believes Bishop could be the playmaker they lacked at the position last year. If he reaches his potential, the Bills may have found a long-term difference-maker on the back end.
Taylor Rapp's Role Expands
Veteran Taylor Rapp is back and expected to start alongside Bishop. Rapp's play improved as the 2024 season progressed, and the team has made it clear they view him as a leader in the secondary. His experience and versatility give the defense a reliable presence, especially important with so much youth around him.
Depth and Development: Hancock, Hamlin, and Forrest
Damar Hamlin returns on a one-year deal and is a strong candidate for the third safety role. He brings special teams value and starting experience, but his limitations in coverage last season have opened the door for competition.
That competition comes in the form of Jordan Hancock, a rookie with intriguing upside. While originally seen as a nickel corner prospect, Hancock has shown promise at safety and could push Hamlin for the top backup role. His instincts and range offer long-term potential to grow into a starting-caliber player.
Darrick Forrest, a free-agent addition, brings experience but faces an uphill battle to make the roster. With a low dead-cap hit and Hancock’s emergence, Forrest may need to clearly outplay others to stick around.
Special Teams Impact
Special teams contributions often decide the fate of backup defenders, and the safety group is no exception. Hamlin has previously been a core-four special teams player. Both Hancock and Forrest are expected to contribute in that phase as well, which could be the deciding factor when it comes to final roster cuts.
Projected 2025 Safety Depth Chart
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Starters: Taylor Rapp, Cole Bishop
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Backups: Damar Hamlin, Jordan Hancock
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Roster Bubble: Darrick Forrest, Wande Owens
The Bills typically carry four safeties on the 53-man roster, and that seems likely again this season. Rapp and Bishop are locks. Hamlin, thanks to his guaranteed deal and special teams experience, is a safe bet. Hancock’s upside gives him the edge over Forrest, who may be the odd man out.
Final Thoughts
Buffalo is clearly turning the page at safety, embracing a youth movement with the hope that it pays off in both the short and long term. If Bishop takes the leap and Hancock continues to develop, the Bills' secondary could be even stronger than it was at the start of 2024. With a higher ceiling and greater versatility, this new-look safety unit might be a crucial part of Buffalo's defensive identity — and its path back to championship contention.
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