Bills Training Camp Day 1: Depth, Drama & Disruption

July 23, 2025

Training camp has exploded to life at St. John Fisher, and through the first day, we’ve witnessed standout performances, rising rookies, and compelling storylines that have Bills Mafia buzzing.

James Cook Shows Up… Big Time

James Cook entered camp under a cloud of contract tension, but quickly silenced any concerns. Coming off a 1,000+ yard season, Cook caught a swing-pass touchdown and followed up with a short-yardage score on Day 1.

He scored a swing-pass TD and followed with a power run.
Coach McDermott summed it up: “He’s ready to go.”
Sources say his energy in 11-on-11s was noticeably sharp.

Why it matters:
Cook’s early presence brings stability to the offense and shows professionalism amid contract talks.

Hairston’s Star Turn… Then a Setback

Rookie cornerback Maxwell Hairston made a strong impression with a red-zone pass breakup, earning praise from veterans like Tre’Davious White. Unfortunately, he later pulled up with a minor hamstring tweak and was held out for precaution.

Why it matters:
Hairston is emerging as a real threat to take starting reps — but early injuries can stall momentum.

Should Buffalo let Hairston push for the starting job, or ease him in slowly?

Kincaid Looks Like a Red-Zone Machine

Tight end Dalton Kincaid caught two red-zone touchdowns during drills, picking up right where he left off from OTAs. His connection with Josh Allen looks sharper, and his route running in tight spaces stands out.

Why it matters:
Buffalo’s red-zone offense lacked finishing power last year. Kincaid might be the missing link.

Can Kincaid become Josh Allen’s most reliable target inside the 20?

Rookie D-Linemen Bring Heat

Newcomers T.J. Sanders and Deone Walker showed serious burst in early drills. Sanders beat interior linemen on back-to-back reps, while Walker dominated run-stopping sessions.

Why it matters:
Depth on the defensive line is critical for playoff football. These rookies might crack the rotation.

Early Injuries — No Panic Yet

A few veterans sat out practice as a precaution:

Dawson Knox (hamstring)
Spencer Brown (back)
Laviska Shenault (leg)
Sedrick Van Pran-Granger (calf)

Why it matters:
None of the injuries are considered serious, but monitoring early health is always key.

Josh Allen Sets the Tone

Allen participated fully in 7-on-7s and red-zone sessions, zipping passes into tight windows and staying after practice for extra reps with WR Josh Palmer.

Why it matters:
He’s not just leading — he’s competing. Allen’s MVP campaign may have started at camp.

Special Teams Emphasis Is Real

New ST coordinator Chris Tabor has put his mark on early practices, emphasizing lane integrity and tackling during kick drills.

Special Teams Coordinator Chris Tabor is shaking things up. In his words:

“You might go from 27 touchbacks up to 75 now… it’s exciting”

Early kick-coverage drills showed improved lane discipline and tackling. Players noted “this isn’t your average Monday-group anymore.”

Why it matters:
Buffalo ranked in the bottom third of special teams efficiency last season. That needs to change.

Which special teams position is most critical this year — returner, coverage, punter or kicker?

Red Helmets Are Official

The alternate red helmets were spotted on Day 1, confirming they’ll return for the Week 18 game vs. Miami. Fans and players alike are fired up for the throwback look.

Why it matters:
The red helmet symbolizes a new energy — and might just become a rallying point late in the season.