Buffalo, NY – July 23, 2025
Legacy and hype don’t last long in an NFL locker room—especially not in Buffalo, where blue-collar grit still defines the culture. As the Bills kick off training camp, one rookie has already learned that lesson the hard way.
Drafted in the fifth round out of Ohio State, a young defensive back arrived in Buffalo with plenty of buzz. His college pedigree, family ties, and versatile skill set had fans and media alike speculating about a fast track to the field.
But as the sun beat down on St. John Fisher University, it was the head coach who made it clear: past accomplishments mean nothing. Eager eyes watched as the newcomer tried to flash his star power in drills, but the spotlight quickly faded.
“I don’t care how many stars you had in college. I don’t care who your dad is. In Buffalo, hype means nothing — grit does. You earn your jersey, your snaps, your respect — right here, every single day.”
With those words, Sean McDermott sent a message not just to the rookie, but to every player fighting for a roster spot. The newcomer, brother to former Chiefs linebacker Chase Hancock, boasts 42 games, 3 interceptions, and 75 tackles in college, but those stats won’t win him any favors.
This year, his path runs through special teams and a crowded secondary, battling veterans like Cam Lewis and Taron Johnson for every snap. The rookie deal—four years, $4.8 million—guarantees nothing but opportunity.
Training camp has only just begun, yet the tone is unmistakable. In Buffalo, the jersey is never just handed over. Grit and heart—not family legacy—will decide who stays.
Stay tuned to ESPN!
