The Buffalo Bills Need Their Secondary To Step Up

Another reason for the secondary’s struggles is Taron Johnson’s absence. Johnson was traded to the Las Vegas Raiders in the offseason and was replaced by former Falcon Dee Alford.

Johnson was a huge piece of the defense at the nickelback position, and Alford has yet to have the same effect. In the win against Detroit, Alford allowed 85 passing yards, a touchdown, and a passer rating of 149.3.

Along with Benford and Alford, the safeties have been underwhelming throughout the first two games. Cole Bishop had a breakout campaign in 2025, but has yet to make his presence known this season.

Jim Leonhard’s Scheme

One of the new additions to the Bills this year is defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard. Leonhard previously coached for the Denver Broncos, where he served as assistant head coach and passing game coordinator.

Leonhard brought a new scheme with him to the Buffalo defense. Under Sean McDermott, the Bills used a 4-3 scheme, whereas Leonhard uses a 3-4.

The new scheme has a lot to do with the troubles in the pass game. It creates a lot of movement in the front seven, which leads to pressures and sacks. However, it also causes miscommunication in the secondary and seems to open up for big plays.

It can take a while for players to adjust to the new scheme, especially since most of them have played in a 4-3 for the past few seasons.

Over time, it should improve, but it’s alarming and something that needs to be addressed before Buffalo’s week three matchup with the Los Angeles Chargers.