Bills: Kaiir Elam named breakout candidate for the upcoming season
In a surprising move, the Buffalo Bills went with their late-round selection in Christian Benford to start the regular season over Kaiir Elam. Elam, a first-round pick in last year's draft, had sky-high expectations. The move not only surprised the Bills Mafia, but national pundits and NFL experts alike. However, Elam stayed on course and […]
In a surprising move, the Buffalo Bills went with their late-round selection in Christian Benford to start the regular season over Kaiir Elam.
Elam, a first-round pick in last year's draft, had sky-high expectations. The move not only surprised the Bills Mafia, but national pundits and NFL experts alike.
However, Elam stayed on course and worked hard to make an impact throughout the season. Despite having a lackluster rookie year with plenty of ups and downs, Elam bounced back with an exceptional postseason run.
Cornerback, arguably, is the hardest transition from college to professional football. By no means was Elam considered a draft bust or failure, he just didn't meet or exceed expectations in his first season.
Si.com highlighted Elam as a breakout candidate for the organization. With McDermott taking over playcalling after a departure from Leslie Frazier, it would go a long way if Elam was able to flash and solidify himself alongside All-Pro cornerback Tre'Davious White.
As we mentioned before, Elam had a lackluster season. He finished the regular season with a 56.7 PFF grade. It was the postseason where he was able to shine and secure an 87.1 PFF rating in two playoff games. That number, as SI.com explained, would have ranked him second among all cornerbacks in the regular season.
The Bills Mafia shouldn't be hitting the panic button on the talented cornerback just yet. Buffalo suffered a nasty injury bug and if you're only as good as your last game, Elam is on track for a monster season.
Buffalo had one of the premiere defenses in the NFL. Elam taking a step alongside White with Poyer and Hyde behind them and Von Miller healthy, the sky is the limit. It wouldn't matter who is lining up in front of them and that should put the entire NFL on notice.
Only time will tell, but perhaps Brandon Beane and the front office were able to hit on yet another draft pick. Kaiir Elam is ready, let's see if he's able to pull it off.
