The Buffalo Bills have secured cornerback Christian Benford with a significant four-year, $76 million contract extension. The 24-year-old, originally drafted in the sixth round of the 2022 NFL Draft out of Villanova, was set to enter the last year of his rookie deal. This extension not only highlights Benford's importance to the team but also emphasizes the Bills' commitment to retaining their young talent.

Since his second season, Benford has established himself as a starter, outpacing former first-round pick Kaiir Elam for the position. He recorded five interceptions in his career, including two last season, and has been credited with 25 passes defended. His extension is part of a broader strategy by the Bills to lock up core players, joining the likes of quarterback Josh Allen and receiver Khalil Shakir, solidifying their roster as they aim for continued success in the AFC East.

The Buffalo Bills have secured cornerback Christian Benford with a four-year, $76 million contract extension, solidifying their commitment to homegrown talent. The 24-year-old Benford, who was set to enter the final year of his rookie contract in 2025, now becomes one of the highest-paid cornerbacks in the league, averaging $19 million annually. His extension follows a breakout season in 2024, where he started 15 games and achieved the sixth-best pass coverage grade among cornerbacks.

A sixth-round draft pick from Villanova in 2022, Benford has significantly developed since his rookie year. He recorded at least two interceptions and 10 pass breakups in both of his last two seasons, even garnering a vote for Defensive Player of the Year for his performance last season. This move not only highlights his growth but also addresses the team's need to fill the gap left by veteran cornerback Rasul Douglas, who departed in free agency. The Bills have been proactive in re-signing key players, including wide receiver Khalil Shakir and pass rusher Greg Rousseau, indicating a strategy focused on retaining core talent.

Khalil Shakir has secured his future with the Buffalo Bills, signing a four-year extension that keeps him around until the 2029 season. In 2024, he led the team with 100 targets, 76 receptions, and 821 receiving yards, showcasing his prominence in the offense. His new contract is valued at $60.2 million, with $32 million guaranteed. The structure is designed to maintain manageable cap hits initially, starting at $6.792 million in 2026 and increasing to $16.22 million by the final year. A void year in 2030 allows the Bills to spread the cap hit more effectively.

For fantasy managers and analysts, Shakir's extension signals confidence from the franchise, emphasizing his role as a key target in an evolving Bills offense. His performance trend suggests he may continue to build on his success, making him a valuable asset in upcoming drafts and waivers. With the potential for a contract restructure on the horizon, Shakir appears to be a player to watch closely, especially as the Bills manage their salary cap and roster flexibility.

Pro Football Focus has ranked the Buffalo Bills as the fourth-best team in their latest NFL power rankings post-free agency. This favorable positioning is attributed not just to new acquisitions like Joey Bosa, but significantly to the long-term extensions secured for key players such as Josh Allen, Greg Rousseau, Terrel Bernard, and Khalil Shakir. Their proactive approach has ensured that Allen retains a strong supporting cast as they aim for continued offensive success in the upcoming seasons.

Although the Bills faced some departures, strategic moves in the free agency, like replacing Mack Hollins with Josh Palmer, showcase their commitment to enhancing their roster. Their ability to maintain a solid foundation while making calculated additions positions them as a formidable contender in the upcoming season.

Joshua Palmer has officially joined the Buffalo Bills, signing a three-year, $36 million contract, including $18 million guaranteed, marking a significant step in his NFL career. The Ontario native expressed excitement about playing closer to his family in Toronto and is eager to contribute to the Bills' success alongside star quarterback Josh Allen. Palmer had a solid season with the Chargers, showcasing his skills with 39 receptions, 584 yards, and one touchdown.

In addition to Palmer, the Bills secured Michael Hoecht, a Canadian defensive lineman, further enhancing their roster. Palmer's connection with former Chargers teammate Joey Bosa adds familiarity as he transitions to Buffalo. As he aims to elevate his game, Palmer acknowledges the challenge of fitting into an already talented offense, while working to maximize his potential under Allen’s guidance.