BREAKING: Bills bring back another familiar face to bolster depth at cornerback
The Buffalo Bills’ most pressing need is at cornerback, and it’s not even a close call. While general manager Brandon Beane has made impressive additions to the defensive line—highlighted by the signing of Joey Bosa—the secondary remains a concern, particularly on the outside.
Recently, the Bills addressed this by trading former first-round pick Kaiir Elam to the Dallas Cowboys in exchange for multiple draft picks. Beyond Christian Benford and Taron Johnson, Buffalo lacks high-end talent at the position.
Even with cornerback Rasul Douglas still available in free agency, the Bills made a move that seemed inevitable. According to Mike Garafolo, Buffalo has signed cornerback Dane Jackson to a one-year deal.
Dane Jackson returns to Buffalo after brief stint with Carolina Panthers
The Bills originally drafted Dane Jackson in the seventh round of the 2020 NFL Draft out of Pittsburgh. Following Tre’Davious White’s injury in 2021, Jackson had the opportunity to step up in Buffalo’s secondary. His best season came in 2022 when he started 14 games, recording double-digit pass breakups, two interceptions, and 57 total tackles.
Given those numbers, Jackson appeared to have the potential to be a hidden gem for the Bills. However, his performance declined in 2023, starting only six games after Buffalo traded for Rasul Douglas. This led to the Bills moving on from him, and he eventually landed in Carolina.
Jackson isn’t expected to fill the CB2 role opposite Christian Benford; this move seems more about depth and familiarity. He already knows Sean McDermott’s system, reducing the time needed to get him acclimated.
Last season with the Panthers, Jackson allowed a career-high 75.9% completion rate when targeted, though he only gave up two touchdowns. However, he played in just nine games and started three.
While this isn’t the major addition Bills fans may have wanted, it’s still a move. Jackson returns to Buffalo, providing experience and continuity to the defense.