Buffalo Bills safety Cole Bishop is entering his second NFL season with a renewed sense of confidence. After a challenging rookie year, which was marred by a shoulder injury during training camp, Bishop struggled to find his footing on the field. Consequently, veteran Damar Hamlin filled the starting safety position alongside Taylor Rapp throughout much of the season. Despite limited starts, Bishop's performance improved as the season progressed, showcasing his potential as a reliable player.

Heading into his sophomore season, Bishop has expressed feeling 'a lot more comfortable' and is eager to prove himself. With an entire offseason to prepare, he aims to solidify his position within a competitive Bills defense that is looking to make a deep playoff run. His development could be crucial for the team, especially with the expectations surrounding their defense this season.

The Buffalo Bills face a pivotal season as they look to bolster their safety position following the departure of veterans Micah Hyde and Jordan Poyer. In 2024, the secondary saw Taylor Rapp and Damar Hamlin take over starting roles, alongside rookies Cole Bishop and Cam Lewis on the depth chart. This transition led to a significant drop in pass defense performance, contrasting sharply from their impressive seventh-place finish in 2023 to 24th in 2024.

Defensive coordinator Bobby Babich expressed confidence in the current roster, highlighting Rapp's solid performance, including three interceptions, and Hamlin's growth in his second year post-recovery. Despite the analytics showing a decline in defensive output, Babich noted that improvement is expected as players adapt to their roles and the defense overall finds its footing.

The 2025 NFL draft is shaping up to be a significant event for former Texas players, with a growing expectation that multiple Longhorns will be selected in the first round. Key candidates include wide receiver Matthew Golden, who has emerged as a top prospect after impressive performances, particularly in the College Football Playoff. His combine speed of 4.29 seconds has caught the attention of teams like the Dallas Cowboys, who might pick him at the 12th overall spot. Other Texas prospects include defensive back Jahdae Barron, expected to go in the first round, and offensive lineman Kelvin Banks Jr., who is also generating considerable interest. With several teams eyeing these players, the Longhorns' impact on the draft is projected to be notable.

Xavier Worthy has been making an impact for the Kansas City Chiefs as he wraps up his rookie season. He demonstrated his skills in a crucial playoff moment during the AFC Championship game against the Buffalo Bills. In a tense moment, Patrick Mahomes delivered a deep pass into a crowd where Worthy managed to secure the catch despite the defensive pressure from Bills safety Cole Bishop. This intense play has sparked controversy among fans and analysts, with many questioning whether the ball touched the ground before Worthy completed the catch.

Despite the ambiguity, the referees ruled it a catch, much to the frustration of Bills supporters. They had hoped for a reversal on a challenge, but the call stood. It’s worth noting that there was a holding penalty on the play that would have negated an interception if it had occurred. Ultimately, this play allowed the Chiefs to capitalize, leading to Mahomes rushing into the end zone shortly after. The officiating decisions have sparked conversations around the game, particularly regarding how such calls can influence the outcome in high-stakes situations.

The Buffalo Bills will face the Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC Championship Game without starting safety Taylor Rapp, who is sidelined due to back and hip injuries. Coach Sean McDermott expressed confidence in rookie Cole Bishop, who is expected to start alongside Damar Hamlin. Bishop has shown growth throughout the season, having started four games due to injuries and contributing notably on special teams. This will be his first start in a crucial playoff game where preparation is key to managing nerves.

The Bills' defense is also dealing with additional injuries, with cornerback Christian Benford currently in concussion protocol. However, linebacker Matt Milano and nickel corner Taron Johnson are anticipated to practice fully. The team's ability to adapt under pressure will be tested against Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes and a potent offense.