
Buffalo, NY â October 25, 2025
The Buffalo Billsâ highly anticipated fifth-round rookie cornerback has yet to make his NFL debut â and now head coach Sean McDermott has revealed the reason why.
For weeks, fans in Buffalo have wondered why the promising young defensive back hasnât been seen in the rotation, despite showing flashes of potential during camp. Rumors of injury setbacks circulated, but McDermott confirmed the issue goes deeper.
âHeâs got the talent, no doubt,â McDermott said. âBut here in Buffalo, we donât play favorites â we play disciplined football. Around here, you earn your snaps through consistency, not potential.â
The player heâs referring to is Jordan Hancock, the former Ohio State standout and 2025 fifth-round draft pick who entered the league with expectations of becoming a long-term fixture in the Billsâ secondary.
At Ohio State, Hancock built a strong reputation as a high-IQ defender. In 2023, he recorded 41 tackles, 5 pass breakups, and a 93-yard pick-six, while in 2024, he added
48 tackles and 8 deflections, helping the Buckeyes capture the College Football Playoff National Championship.

Hancockâs versatility â being able to play both outside and slot corner â made him a coveted draft addition. However, his adjustment to the professional level has been anything but smooth.
According to team sources, Hancock has missed defensive reads, skipped assignments, and struggled to align with the coaching staffâs defensive system, frustrating the Billsâ defensive coaches early in the season.
McDermottâs decision to bench the rookie reflects the teamâs broader philosophy. âThis defense runs on preparation and accountability,â he emphasized. âIf you donât study, if you donât prepare the right way, you donât step on the field â itâs that simple.â
For now, Hancock continues to train on the inactive list, focusing on improving his play recognition and communication under defensive coordinator Bobby Babich. Coaches remain optimistic about his future â but discipline comes first.
McDermott concluded with his trademark firmness. âHeâs going to be a good player,â he said. âBut in Buffalo, you donât get playing time because of hype â you earn it through hard work, humility, and consistency.â
âNhưng á» Buffalo, báșĄn khĂŽng cĂł thá»i gian thi Äáș„u vĂŹ sá»± cưá»ng Äiá»u – báșĄn kiáșżm ÄÆ°á»Łc nĂł nhá» lĂ m viá»c chÄm chá», khiĂȘm tá»n vĂ kiĂȘn Äá»nh.â