The Buffalo Bills extend CB Christian Benford on $76M deal

2025 NFL free agency tracker: The Buffalo Bills extend CB Christian Benford on $76M deal

The Buffalo Bills extend CB Christian Benford on a $76M deal. ​In a significant move to bolster their defense, the Buffalo Bills have secured cornerback Christian Benford with a four-year, $76 million contract extension. This agreement ensures that the 24-year-old standout remains with the team through the 2029 NFL season. ​

The Buffalo Bills extend CB Christian Benford on $76M deal

From Sixth-Round Pick to Defensive Cornerstone

Benford’s journey from a sixth-round selection in the 2022 NFL Draft to a pivotal player in Buffalo’s secondary is a testament to his talent and determination. Drafted 185th overall from Villanova, Benford quickly exceeded expectations. In his rookie season, he earned a starting role alongside Dane Jackson, even outperforming first-round pick Kaiir Elam on the depth chart. His debut against the Los Angeles Rams showcased his potential, recording three tackles and a pass defended.

Despite a hand fracture in Week 3 of his rookie year, Benford’s resilience saw him return after missing only two games. His sophomore season in 2023 further solidified his status, as he started 14 games and amassed 51 tackles, 10 passes defensed, two interceptions, and two forced fumbles. Pro Football Focus recognized his performance, ranking him eighth among cornerbacks that season.

A Stellar 2024 Season

The 2024 season marked a new pinnacle in Benford’s career. Through the first four weeks, he was one of only four starting cornerbacks to not allow a reception of 15 or more yards. During this period, he recorded 18 tackles and two pass deflections, allowing receptions on just 35.7% of his targets—the lowest among cornerbacks with at least 100 coverage snaps. Quarterbacks targeting Benford had a passer rating of merely 14.6, underscoring his lockdown coverage abilities. ​

The Financials of the Extension

Prior to this extension, Benford was in the final year of his rookie contract, which was a four-year, $3.85 million deal signed in 2022. The new extension not only reflects his on-field contributions but also aligns his compensation with top-tier cornerbacks in the league. While specific details of the extension’s structure haven’t been fully disclosed, the $76 million deal signifies the Bills’ commitment to retaining key defensive talent.

Strategic Moves by the Bills

Benford’s extension is part of a broader strategy by the Bills to secure their core players. This offseason, Buffalo has been proactive in retaining talent, with notable extensions including:​

• Quarterback Josh Allen: Agreed to a six-year, $330 million deal with $250 million guaranteed.​

• Wide Receiver Khalil Shakir: Signed a four-year extension worth up to $60.2 million, including $32 million guaranteed.

• Linebacker Terrel Bernard: Agreed to a four-year extension worth $50 million, with $25.2 million guaranteed.​

• Defensive End Greg Rousseau: Signed a four-year, $80 million extension, including $54 million guaranteed.​

These moves underscore the organization’s focus on maintaining a competitive roster by investing in both offensive and defensive playmakers.

Implications for the Bills’ Defense

Retaining Benford is a strategic decision aimed at stabilizing and enhancing the Bills’ pass defense, which faced challenges in previous seasons. Benford’s ability to limit big plays and his consistent performance provide a reliable presence in the secondary. His partnership with other defensive backs is expected to fortify Buffalo’s defense against the league’s top passing offenses.

Looking Ahead

With Benford secured through 2029, the Bills have ensured that a key component of their defense remains intact. As the team continues to pursue success in a highly competitive AFC landscape, investments in players like Benford reflect a commitment to building a resilient and dynamic roster.​

Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how these strategic moves translate on the field in the coming seasons. For now, the extension of Christian Benford stands as a significant step in the Bills’ ongoing quest for NFL supremacy.