Bills’ First-Round Pick “Collapses” Before It Even Begins - Rookie Season Over

Buffalo, NY — September 24, 2025 — Maxwell Hairston, the Buffalo Bills’ first-round rookie cornerback, is showing positive signs in his recovery from a right knee LCL sprain, but his return-to-play timeline remains uncertain. After an unexpected incident during the July 29, 2025 training session, Hairston missed the entire preseason and at least the first four games of the 2025 season. Below are the latest updates from the coaching staff and the fan community.

According to head coach Sean McDermott, Hairston began running and mobility work with the performance staff on September 24, 2025, using a knee brace for support. McDermott told reporters: “Maxwell is putting in the work and trending in the right direction, but we need to be patient. He’s been out since camp, so it’s going to take time both physically and mentally to get back.” Footage from practice, captured by reporter Matt Bove, showed Hairston moving more than before—an encouraging sign.

Hairston becomes eligible to return in Week 5 (projected October 6, 2025), but McDermott stressed there’s no exact “how many weeks” answer and used the phrase “when and if” to acknowledge the possibility he may not play this season if setbacks occur.

Hairston’s LCL injury occurred in late July. Although early estimates suggested roughly three weeks, the severity led the Bills to place him on injured reserve (IR) with a designation to return. His absence—combined with a lower-leg issue for Tre’Davious White—has thinned Buffalo’s secondary. The team is leaning on Christian Benford, Taron Johnson, and Ja’Marcus Ingram to cover snaps, but depth at cornerback remains a concern.

Despite progress, Hairston still faces a significant challenge to regain form—both physically and with the playbook. McDermott noted: “We need to temper expectations and manage them day by day.” Some analysts project that, barring complications, Hairston could resume limited practice Week 6–7 (Oct. 13–20, 2025), though the team may ultimately prioritize long-term health over a rushed return.

On X, Bills Mafia expressed mixed emotions—concern tempered by hope. One fan wrote, “It hurts to see a talent like Hairston struggle, but let him get fully healthy before he comes back.” Others suggested the Bills explore external reinforcements if the situation doesn’t improve.

At eight weeks since the injury, Hairston appears on track but may still need 2–4 more weeks for a full recovery. With the Bills off to an impressive 3–0 start ahead of Thursday’s matchup with the New Orleans Saints, the team could take a conservative approach to ensure Hairston becomes a long-term pillar of the defense.

Fans and analysts will continue to monitor updates from McDermott and the Bills’ medical staff. For now, Hairston’s return remains a question mark—paired with the hope that he’ll soon bolster Buffalo’s secondary.