Bills’ Sean McDermott provides worrying injury update at the worst possible time with critical update on Christian Benford

Not the update fans were hoping to hear ahead of Week 15.

Adam Zientek NFL News Writer
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Dec 7, 2025; Orchard Park, New York, USA; Buffalo Bills cornerback Christian Benford (47) returns an interception of Buffalo Bills safety Taylor Rapp (on the ground) for a touchdown in the fourth quarter at Highmark Stadium.
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The Buffalo Bills were looking like they were going to be at, or near, full health heading into the Week 15 matchup against the New England Patriots. For all intents and purposes, it was a good week of practice, and the fans were excited at the prospect of getting a fully healthy team on the field.

Defensive end Joey Bosa is progressing well through injury, along with offensive tackle Spencer Brown, who are both full participants in practice on Friday and seem like they’ll be able to go on Sunday. Wide receiver Josh Palmer and linebacker Terrel Bernard are officially listed as questionable and are limited in practice once again.

However, cornerback Christian Benford popped up late on the injury report on Thursday with a toe injury and could be seen in a walking boot after practice. If there’s one player the team couldn’t afford to lose on defense, it’s Benford.

McDermott gives update on Christian Benford

Head coach Sean McDermott shared the update while speaking on WGR550. It’s what he said about Benford ahead of practice that is the talk of the town.

McDermott confirmed the injury happened at practice and announced that Benford would not be practicing on Friday. He ruled out it being a long-term injury, but is unsure if Benford will be able to play on Sunday.

McDermott’s words resonated with the Bills Mafia; it was something that every fan could get behind.

“It is frustrating,” McDermott said. “But at the same time, next man up.”

That next-man-up very well could be an increased role for rookie Maxwell Hairston, something that McDermott pointed out immediately after the announcement of Benford.

“It’s time for him to continue to grow,” McDermott said.

If Benford is unable to go on Sunday, the spotlight will quickly shift to Buffalo’s depth and development in the backend. With the playoffs looming, the Bills may get an early look at just how ready their next wave of defenders truly is.