The Buffalo Bills faced numerous challenges in their secondary during the 2024 season, but one bright spot emerged—cornerback Christian Benford. His impressive performance earned him a spot on Pro Football Focus’ (PFF) prestigious Top 100 Players of 2024 list, coming in at No. 67.
Benford’s breakout campaign was defined by his exceptional coverage skills and reliability in the open field. He posted an outstanding 82.8 coverage grade, ranking fourth among all cornerbacks in the league. His consistency in shutting down opposing receivers made him a key asset for Buffalo’s defense.
In addition to his coverage prowess, Benford displayed elite tackling efficiency. His 2.8% missed tackle rate was among the best in the NFL, trailing only Defensive Player of the Year Patrick Surtain II among cornerbacks with at least 400 snaps. This level of discipline and sure tackling solidified his reputation as one of the league’s most dependable defenders.
As the Bills look to build upon their defensive strengths moving forward, Benford’s emergence provides a foundation for success. With his combination of coverage skills, physicality, and consistency, he is poised to be a cornerstone of Buffalo’s defense for years to come.