In a bold and unexpected move that sent shockwaves across the NFL, the Detroit Lions have finalized a deal to sign Buffalo Bills cornerback Christian Benford to a four-year, $76 million contract. The agreement marks a significant step forward for a Detroit secondary that has struggled with consistency in recent seasons, and it represents a massive investment in a young and rising defensive star.
Benford, just 24 years old, has steadily risen through the ranks since being drafted by the Bills in the sixth round of the 2022 NFL Draft out of Villanova. While initially overlooked due to his small-school background, Benford quickly proved his doubters wrong. Over two seasons in Buffalo, he emerged as a key contributor in the Bills’ secondary, earning a reputation for physicality, strong coverage skills, and a high football IQ. In 2023, he started 14 games, recording 63 total tackles, 10 pass deflections, and three interceptions — all career highs.
The Lions, led by head coach Dan Campbell and general manager Brad Holmes, have prioritized bolstering their defense this offseason. Adding Benford to a cornerback room that already includes promising talent like Brian Branch and Emmanuel Moseley gives Detroit a much-needed lockdown presence on the outside. With Aaron Glenn continuing to shape the defense into a playoff-caliber unit, Benford’s arrival signals the front office’s confidence in making a serious postseason run in 2025 and beyond.
The contract, which averages $19 million per year, includes $42 million guaranteed, making Benford one of the highest-paid cornerbacks in the league. Sources close to the situation say several teams were in pursuit, but Detroit’s offer and vision for the future ultimately sealed the deal. Benford is expected to slot in as the team’s No. 1 corner, taking on the challenge of covering top receivers in the NFC North, including Justin Jefferson and D.J. Moore.
Buffalo, meanwhile, faces a tough loss. The team had hoped to retain Benford as a building block in their defensive backfield, but cap constraints and Detroit’s aggressive push made retention nearly impossible.
For the Lions, this move isn’t just about defense — it’s about sending a message to the league: Detroit is done rebuilding. They’re ready to win now.