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Bills Rookie With Blazing Speed Nears Return, Ready to Turn Preseason Into a "Highlight Moment"

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BUFFALO — Bills rookie Maxwell Hairston is walking free of crutches, and with each step, anticipation grows. The first-round cornerback — clocked at a blazing 4.28 seconds in the 40-yard dash — looks closer to making his preseason debut after suffering a knee sprain in late July.

Bills' defensive coordinator praises rookie CB Maxwell Hairston

On Wednesday, teammates noticed the shift. Among them, star wideout Matt Milano delivered the words that carried across the locker room: “He’s different. That speed, that confidence — once he’s back, it changes how teams line up against us. You can’t coach what he has.”

Bills DC: Team has a plan to work through Hairston injury

For the Bills, Hairston’s recovery isn’t just about getting a rookie healthy — it’s about unlocking a new dimension for a defense already built on speed and aggression. A healthy Hairston means tighter coverage, more options in nickel and dime, and an added spark that could tilt momentum even in preseason play.

Bills rookie cornerback Maxwell Hairston diagnosed with sprained right knee  ligament, AP source says | Sports | stardem.com

Every preseason offers a story of return, but Maxwell Hairston’s comeback could be more than that. If Stefon Diggs is right, it could be the moment that shifts how Buffalo enters September — not just waiting for a rookie, but preparing for a difference-maker.

Pittsburgh Steelers Reach Agreement with Safety Shilo Sanders, Pending Medical Evaluation Amid Personal Drama, per source
The Pittsburgh Steelers are adding intrigue to their practice squad plans, reaching an agreement with safety Shilo Sanders. The deal remains subject to a medical evaluation before it can be made official, leaving his status uncertain. Sanders, son of Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, brings both pedigree and baggage. Known for his ball-hawking instincts, he also carries a reputation for injuries and personal drama that have followed him throughout his career. Undrafted in 2025, Sanders signed with Tampa Bay and appeared in three preseason games. His stint ended abruptly after an ejection against Buffalo for unnecessary roughness, prompting the Buccaneers to waive him on August 24. Despite the setback, Pittsburgh sees potential value. Sanders collected 161 tackles, 11 interceptions, and six forced fumbles across 41 college games, with his 2023 season at Colorado highlighting his ability to create turnovers and lead a defense. The Steelers’ secondary has dealt with depth concerns, and Sanders’ versatility offers a possible solution. He can rotate at safety, provide nickel coverage, and contribute on special teams — all traits valued in Pittsburgh’s defensive culture. However, health remains the deciding factor. Sanders suffered an ACL tear in 2022 and missed time again in 2024 due to nagging injuries. Team doctors will determine whether his body can withstand NFL competition. Layered over the medical risk is the personal drama surrounding Sanders. Legal battles, financial trouble, and family headlines have raised questions about his focus, but the Steelers have a history of managing strong personalities. For Sanders, joining Pittsburgh would represent another opportunity to reset his NFL path. If he clears medical evaluation, he could find a stable environment to prove he belongs in the league despite the noise around him.