Rookie Requests to Miss Week 1 After Mother’s Accident — Bills Say No

ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. — Buffalo Bills rookie defensive back Jordan Hancock has requested to miss the 2025 NFL season opener (Week 1) in order to care for his mother, who was injured in a serious car accident. The team, however, denied the request, while pledging full support so Hancock can focus on football and bring glory to Buffalo.

Hancock, a former Ohio State standout and member of the 2025 College Football Playoff championship team, grew up in Suwanee, Georgia, in a close-knit but private family. According to sources, his mother — who raised him on her own through difficult circumstances — was recently injured in a car accident in Atlanta.

“Jordan has always put family first. He wants to be there for his mom when she needs him the most,” a family friend said.

Drafted by the Bills in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, Hancock had asked to sit out Week 1 to help his mother recover. But with head coach Sean McDermott viewing him as a key piece in the defense, particularly in his versatile nickel/safety role, the team opted to keep him in the lineup.

In a recent press conference, Hancock expressed his gratitude through tears:

“The Bills are not just a team — they’re my second family. When my mom’s accident happened, they reached out with everything from medical support to words of encouragement. I will give everything I have on the field, for my mom and for Buffalo, to bring the success this team deserves.”

In a statement, the organization praised Hancock’s devotion to his family but underscored his importance to the defense, especially as the team looks to push deeper into the playoffs after falling to the Chiefs in the 2024 AFC Championship.

Though his absence was denied, the Bills secured his mother’s transfer to Emory University Hospital in Atlanta, where she now occupies a specialized rehabilitation unit with 24-hour monitoring. The team is covering all related expenses and assigned a dedicated care coordinator to keep Hancock informed.

They also arranged family housing and travel, ensuring that Hancock’s relatives can remain close without financial strain.

“My mom has specialists watching over her 24/7, and the Bills are checking in constantly,” Hancock said. “They’ve given me the strength to fight for Buffalo on the field, knowing my family is cared for.”

At Ohio State in 2024, Hancock recorded 48 tackles, nine pass breakups, and one interception, drawing comparisons to Bills corner Taron Johnson for his versatility at nickel and safety. In the 2025 preseason, he impressed with sharp reads and quick reactions — particularly in a standout performance against the Giants.

“You can feel Jordan’s presence on the field,” McDermott said after that game.

Still, a shoulder injury suffered against the Bears raised durability questions as Week 1 approaches.

The Bills’ 2025 opener looms as a major test, with Hancock expected to help solidify the secondary alongside Tre’Davious White and Christian Benford. With the team’s backing, he can take the field with confidence, providing steady defense while striving to help Buffalo break through its playoff barrier.

Hancock’s story is more than just about football skills — it’s about balancing family responsibility with professional ambition. By standing behind him, the Bills are proving they’re not just building a team, but a community.