The Buffalo Billsare heading into its bye week and it's an ideal time to make any necessary roster additions or lineup changes. For one Ohio State rookie, he's emerging at the right time.
Davison Igbinosun, who was selected with the 62nd pick in April's draft, has slowly watched his playing time and snap count increase. His recent play, and the Bills' secondary struggles, could make way for a larger and potentially starting role for the rookie corner.
“What he’s done last couple weeks he’s earned a high majority of the snaps at the corner position," Bills defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard said this week. "I know what I’m getting play in and play out ... I think he’s stepped in and done a great job.”
Igbinosun played just 57 snaps in the first
three weeks of the season but has increased that snap count to an average of 62.3 snaps a game in the last three weeks -- with his lowest being still 64 percent of the Bills' defensive snaps.
Despite two penalties on Sunday against the Raiders, he turned in his best performance.
He was targeted five times but gave up just one catch for 26 yards. He finished with two tackles, and three pass deflections. His performance stood out to head coach Joe Brady.
"What I love about IGB is he just keeps playing, and they might take a shot, and he's going to go right back at it with the same mindset," Brady said. "He has a short memory and he's continuing to grow game in game out and us getting a feel for what's best for him. But one thing I know is he competes every damn play, and that's exactly what we're looking for."
While he's still going to have his rookie speed bumps throughout the season, it's clear that he's emerging as someone this defense and coaching staff can trust.
The Bills, sitting at 5-1 entering their bye week, rank last in the NFL in coverage grade. Igbinosun could now be part of the solution in the weeks to come.
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This article originally appeared on Buckeyes Wire: Former Ohio State standout emerging as potential NFL rookie starter
