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.

The NFL offseason has witnessed a flurry of player movements as high-profile free agents secure new contracts. Notably, Geno Smith has transitioned from the Seattle Seahawks to the Las Vegas Raiders, while DK Metcalf has joined the Pittsburgh Steelers, who are actively seeking a quarterback. Despite the flurry of activity, several significant unsigned players remain, potentially offering teams valuable additions at bargain prices. As the league eyes the upcoming draft, teams remain focused on finding hidden gems among the remaining free agents.

Three former Buffalo Bills players are among the top free agents available, according to Pro Football Focus. Wide receiver Amari Cooper leads the list after a challenging stint with Buffalo, where he recorded only 20 receptions for 297 yards and two touchdowns over eight games, hindered by injuries. Cornerback Rasul Douglas follows at number two, having demonstrated effectiveness with four interceptions in nine games after joining midseason from Green Bay. Lastly, edge rusher Von Miller ranks ninth, marked by a significant contract but limited production due to a torn ACL and subsequent recovery challenges.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are exploring options to strengthen their struggling secondary, which ranked poorly in coverage during the 2024 season. One potential target is veteran cornerback Rasul Douglas, who was recently released by the Buffalo Bills. Douglas has a proven track record, with 14 interceptions between 2021 and 2023 and impressive performance metrics that include a low passer rating allowed. The Bucs' front office, led by Jason Licht, may find Douglas a fitting addition to their roster, especially considering their playoff aspirations.

Adding a player of Douglas' caliber could significantly impact the Buccaneers' defense, which is in need of veteran leadership alongside younger players like Tykee Smith and Zyon McCollum. The challenge will be luring him away from a competitive AFC East environment, but the Buccaneers' need is clear, and Douglas could prove to be the missing link in their defensive strategy.