Buffalo Rumblinks, 8/20: Who starts at safety opposite Taylor Rapp?

While the Buffalo Bills as a team endured a miserable performance during their 38-0 loss to the Chicago Bears in Week 2 of the NFL’s preseason, one area in particular was frustrating for Bills coaches and fans alike: how Buffalo’s safeties fared during their time on the field.

Cole Bishop, last year’s second-round pick and the presumptive starter alongside returner Taylor Rapp, struggled mightily in his first action as he works his way back from a quad injury, while veteran Damar Hamlin also played

poorly in starting alongside Bishop.

Who will start next to Rapp is still one of the biggest questions facing the Bills, and today’s edition of Buffalo Rumblinks leads off by examining why head coach Sean McDermott says the team is still “looking” for its starting strong safety.

Who starts opposite Taylor Rapp at safety?

Against Chicago, Bishop and Hamlin combined to allow the Bears first touchdown on their opening drive, a bad omen of what was to come as both players struggled while auditioning for the starting strong safety role. Sean McDermott told reporters that all safeties on the roster remain in competition for the starting gig, a group that includes Bishop, Hamlin, rookie Jordan Hancock, and veteran Darrick Forrest.

“I think we’re looking for that other safety to play alongside of T. Rapp,” McDermott said before Tuesday’s practice session. “How consistent can they become, and how quickly can they grow if they’re a younger player?”

Gauging Buffalo’s interest in reuniting with WR Gabe Davis

According to multiple reports, the Bills are bringing in former wide receiver Gabe Davis for a free-agent visit. During his four-year career with Buffalo, Davis caught 163 passes for 2,730 yards with 27 touchdowns.

Even more Bills news

Quarterback Josh Allen says he’s making the most of the chances to get acclimated with his new receivers; learn how veteran wide receiver Curtis Samuel impressed Allen in his return from injury; the latest on the injury to promising rookie defensive back Jordan Hancock; recapping the highlights from episode 3 of “Hard Knocks,” and more!