Buffalo, NY – October 25, 2025
The Buffalo Bills’ highly anticipated fifth-round rookie cornerback has yet to make his NFL debut — and now head coach Sean McDermott has revealed the reason why.

For weeks, fans in Buffalo have wondered why the promising young defensive back hasn’t been seen in the rotation, despite showing flashes of potential during camp. Rumors of injury setbacks circulated, but McDermott confirmed the issue goes deeper.

“He’s got the talent, no doubt,” McDermott said. “But here in Buffalo, we don’t play favorites — we play disciplined football. Around here, you earn your snaps through consistency, not potential.”

The player he’s 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 Bills’ 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.

Hancock’s versatility — being able to play both outside and slot corner — 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 staff’s defensive system, frustrating the Bills’ defensive coaches early in the season.

McDermott’s decision to bench the rookie reflects the team’s broader philosophy. “This defense runs on preparation and accountability,” he emphasized. “If you don’t study, if you don’t prepare the right way, you don’t step on the field — it’s that simple.”

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 — but discipline comes first.

McDermott concluded with his trademark firmness. “He’s going to be a good player,” he said. “But in Buffalo, you don’t get playing time because of hype — you earn it through hard work, humility, and consistency.”