Orchard Park, N.Y. — Buffalo Bills cornerback suffered a head injury during the final play of Sunday’s Divisional Round game, which occurred during the Baltimore Ravens’ onside kick attempt, head coach Sean McDermott confirmed Monday.
Ravens linebacker Kristian Welch collided with him in a head-to-head hit while trying to break through his block.
He is now in the NFL’s concussion protocol, putting his availability for Sunday’s AFC Championship game against the Kansas City Chiefs in doubt. If he’s unable to play, it would mark the second consecutive season he’s missed a playoff game against Kansas City.
This season, Benford has been a crucial part of Buffalo’s defense with his exceptional coverage skills. According to Pro Football Focus, he allowed just 0.51 yards per coverage snap during the regular season, ranking third among all NFL cornerbacks.
If Benford is sidelined, third-year cornerback Kaiir Elam, a first-round pick in the 2022 draft, could step up in his place. Elam has struggled to secure a consistent role, as starters Benford and veteran Rasul Douglas have been the top boundary cornerbacks. Elam has been inactive for five of the Bills’ last eight games but did play in Weeks 14 and 15 when Douglas was injured, only to return to inactive status afterward.
Bills defensive coordinator Bobby Babich expressed confidence in Elam and emphasized the importance of preparation, regardless of who fills in.
“It’s an opportunity for someone else. The standard remains the same, as we often say here,” Babich stated. “It’s our responsibility to have (players) ready to step up.”
Bills starting safety Taylor Rapp exited Sunday’s game with a hip injury and was carted to the locker room. Head coach Sean McDermott described his status as day-to-day. After Rapp’s departure, rookie Cole Bishop stepped in to fill the position.
When asked about the possibility of veteran safety Micah Hyde, currently on Buffalo’s practice squad, stepping in if Rapp is unavailable, McDermott confirmed that Hyde will not play against the Chiefs.
Meanwhile, cornerback Taron Johnson briefly left the game with a shoulder injury but returned to finish. McDermott noted Johnson was a bit sore on Monday but came out of the game without significant issues.
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