​During the 2026 NFL Draft, the Bills pursued a position that could surprise many observers. While the spotlight from media outlets and fans had largely centered on the wide receiver group in recent seasons, Buffalo had already shifted to bolster its pass-catching corps by acquiring D.J. Moore. This move gave the Bills more latitude to target the best players available on their board at other spots, one of which was cornerback. In the second round, the team traded up to select Ohio State’s Davison Igbinosun. Earlier, Buffalo had drafted CB Maxwell Hairston with its 2025 first-round pick and had signed Christian Benford to a substantial extension last year. Hairston, who missed significant time due to injury during his rookie season, is setting his sights on big goals for his sophomore year. “I’ve got a lot to prove to myself,” Hairston told The Buffalo News. “My goal is to be a full-season starter. Honestly, my goal is to do whatever I can to help us win a Super Bowl. Day in, day out, come in and take care of my body and just keep going.”
New cornerbacks coach Jay Valai commented on Hairston’s status and the addition of Igbinosun. “Max, you see great upside and great ability,” Valai said. “Obviously, he got hurt to start the year, so he’s understanding. I can’t wait to see him on the field when the fall hits and camp hits and we get into the season. You talk about somebody with tremendous upside and a high level of want-to. He’s very intentional with everything he does. A lot of people have intent, but he’s intentional in the doing aspect of it. You see a guy who’s really, really focused on proving the Bills right in picking him.”
Hairston’s rookie season was disrupted by a knee injury that sidelined him for six games early on. He did return for 11 regular-season contests, rotating with veteran Tre’Davious White and recording two interceptions, 18 tackles, and five passes defended. In Week 18 against the Jets, he sustained an ankle injury that caused him to miss the Bills’ playoff games. “Especially in the playoffs, it was tough,” Hairston admitted during offseason practices. “Just got to keep that flame inside me, take that into next season, and when we make that run, I’m available.”
Opponents tested Buffalo’s secondary in Hairston’s absence, and with a new defensive coordinator and scheme under Jim Leonhard, the Bills are assembling a cornerback room that mirrors the depth and development seen at other positions. Hairston remained determined, ready to return to the field and contribute to the team’s defense.
“Honestly, I’ve been praying and keeping the faith, believing that everything happens for a reason,” he reflected. “I’m focused on what I can control—physically and mentally—not letting an injury slow me down as a good teammate. I’ll continue to encourage the guys. It’s tough, but not impossible to get through. You just have to push for better.”