Buffalo Bills open practice window hinting at rookie cornerback’s return
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The Buffalo Bills are inching closer to seeing their first-round rookie back on the field, officially opening the 21-day practice window for cornerback Maxwell Hairston — a key step toward his long-awaited NFL debut.
Hairston, selected 30th overall in April’s draft, was viewed as a long-term piece alongside Christian Benford in Buffalo’s secondary. But a late-July LCL sprain derailed those plans, landing him on injured reserve before the season even began.
Now, Buffalo has three weeks to evaluate him in practice before deciding whether to activate him to the 53-man roster. If not, he’ll remain on IR for the rest of the year.
Head coach Sean McDermott didn’t make any bold predictions but said, “We’re seeing real progress from Maxwell.” The rookie has been spotted working with the training staff in recent sessions, including before the Week 6 matchup against Atlanta — a clear sign he’s trending upward.
Hairston’s potential return couldn’t come at a better time. The Bills’ defense has been ravaged by injuries — with rookie Dorian Strong and safety Damar Hamlin both sidelined — leaving the secondary dangerously thin. Even so, Buffalo ranks second in the NFL in pass defense (181.2 yards per game allowed), showing strong discipline and depth despite the setbacks.
The run defense, however, has been an issue — giving up 156.3 rushing yards per game, one of the worst marks in the league. Hairston may not fix that single-handedly, but his coverage skills could free up the safeties to play closer to the line, helping balance Buffalo’s defense.
Clocking a blazing 4.28-second 40-yard dash, Hairston combines elite speed with natural ball instincts, tallying six interceptions during his Kentucky career. If he’s back to full strength, expect him to start opposite Benford, forming a dynamic young cornerback duo capable of matching up against any AFC wideout corps.
Bills fans are buzzing to see whether Maxwell Hairston can make an immediate impact and help spark a defensive resurgence in Buffalo’s playoff push. What’s your prediction for his debut performance? Leave a comment, share this story, and check out our exclusive NFL-inspired collection at [SHOP NOW].