Buffalo Bills cornerback Christian Benford has yet to earn a Pro Bowl or All-Pro selection. He has never recorded more than two interceptions in a season or been widely recognized as one of the league’s top players at his position.
But that’s not a reflection of his talent.
Despite being a former sixth-round pick who has flown under the radar, analytics and lockdown coverage stats prove Benford is among the best at his position. His new contract, which ranks 13th among all cornerbacks in terms of salary, makes him a tremendous value for the Bills moving forward.
Over the past three seasons, Benford has quietly become one of the NFL’s most underrated defensive backs. His work ethic hasn’t gone unnoticed, especially by head coach Sean McDermott.
“I think, more than anything, he just continues to work hard every day to try to be the best that he can be,” McDermott said. “He does a really good job staying on task, focusing on his responsibilities each week, and working to improve. You’re seeing the results of that.”
The new four-year deal, worth over $76 million, averages just $19 million per year—far less than what Sauce Gardner is expected to command from the AFC East rival New York Jets.
That alone makes Benford’s high-level play an incredible bargain for the Bills.
And if he continues to develop, the value of his contract will only become even more apparent.
