Bills Rookie Maxwell Hairston Sidelined Indefinitely with Knee Injury

Buffalo Bills rookie cornerback Maxwell Hairston suffered a right LCL sprain during training camp, sidelining him for an estimated three weeks and causing him to miss valuable practice and preseason time as he competes for a starting role opposite Christian Benford. Defensive coordinator Bobby Babich emphasized the challenges Hairston faces in returning to game speed despite walkthroughs and limited practice activity and encouraged him to stay positive during his recovery. In Hairston's absence, rookie cornerback Dorian Strong, a sixth-round pick, will receive increased reps and opportunities to prove himself. Hairston's injury opens the door for veteran Tre’Davious White to start the season as the team's CB2. Hairston, noted for his elite speed and athleticism, was a first-round pick who had a strong college career despite a down 2024 season due to a shoulder injury, and he faces questions about his readiness to be an every-down NFL cornerback. The Bills organization remains hopeful Hairston can recover in time to contribute this season while managing the transition in the secondary.