Crucial Buffalo Bills position group takes another blow after injuries in back-to-back practices

It's not quite time to sound the alarm bells, but concerns about the Buffalo Bills' safety group are starting to mount. One day after veteran newcomer Mike Edwards went down with a hamstring injury that has him out on a "week-to-week basis," another potential key contributor left practice.

Cole Bishop, rookie second-round pick that has been having a very strong training camp, was spotted leaving practice towards the end of the session today. While we don't currently have an update on what the injury is, Bishop was seen after practice with his arm "heavily wrapped."

Buffalo Bills plans at safety take a blow

With Edwards sidelined, Buffalo brought in veteran Kareem Jackson to fill the spot as a camp body that could add a veteran presence to the safety room. If Bishop has to miss any amount of significant time, then Buffalo's current safety room would comprise of Taylor Rapp, Damar Hamlin , Jackson, and not much else.

Prior to leaving practice, Bishop was working with the 1st. In the middle of a true camp battle, Bishop has an opportunity to compete for a starting role if he can return to practice healthy in short order. If not, Hamlin figures to see even more reps with the starters.

Cole Bishop has been having a strong first training camp

Bishop has been standing out during camp, along with wide receiver Keon Coleman. So far, the Bills have to be feeling good about both of their second-round picks .

Bishop has been showcasing his versatility and athleticism, repeatedly making plays in coverage in part thanks to his play recognition ability and his quick trigger. For defensive backs, it's crucial to trust your eyes and react. Bishop showed that ability repeatedly in college, and although he's still adjusting to the speed of the NFL, he appears to be continuing that trend into his rookie season.

Whether or not Bishop lined up as a starter in two-high looks remains to be seen, but Bishop's ability to line up all over the defensive formation will make him a valuable chess piece on defense. He has ability to play down in the box, to rush the passer, to cover out of the slot, or to be a ball hawk on the back end. It remains to be seen how significant this injury is, but hopefully Bishop will be able to get back on the field and continue his upward trajectory sooner than later.

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