The Buffalo Bills made a key trade last season, acquiring veteran cornerback Rasul Douglas, who quickly became a key contributor to their defense. This year, Douglas has continued to play a major role, but a recent report suggests the Bills should begin considering a replacement for the 29-year-old as he heads toward free agency. Alex Ballentine of Bleacher Report recommended that the Bills target Kristian Fulton, a cornerback for the Los Angeles Chargers. Fulton, who will be a free agent after this season, could offer a long-term solution in the secondary, being just 26 years old and coming off a solid year after a rough 2023 with the Tennessee Titans.
Despite Douglas’ solid performance in Buffalo this season, starting all 11 games and recording 44 tackles with five passes defended, Ballentine proposed that the Bills may need to rethink their approach to the secondary. The decision will largely depend on whether the team wants to re-sign Douglas, who is aging and may have started to show signs of decline. Fulton, on the other hand, is younger and could provide a fresh, long-term option.
Fulton has had a solid season with the Chargers, starting in seven of the eight games he’s played. He has tallied 18 tackles, one interception, and six passes defended, showcasing his potential as a future starting cornerback.
Rasul Douglas remains a key piece of the Bills’ defense, having played a critical role in their 30-21 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs on November 17. Both Douglas and fellow cornerback Christian Benford were instrumental in shutting down the Chiefs’ wide receivers, forcing quarterback Patrick Mahomes to scramble and disrupting the Chiefs’ offensive rhythm. This defensive performance was key to the Bills’ win.
Looking ahead, the Bills are also expecting a boost on defense following their bye week, as Pro Bowl linebacker Matt Milano is nearing a return from a torn pectoral muscle suffered in training camp. The team has opened Milano’s practice window, and rookie defensive tackle DeWayne Carter is also eligible to return from injured reserve. While head coach Sean McDermott expressed hope for their return, he noted that no final decisions could be made until the players are fully healthy.
