The Buffalo Bills are being encouraged to pursue veteran cornerback Mike Hilton, who was released by the Miami Dolphins on Monday.
Buffalo’s secondary could use more depth, and bringing in Hilton would create an interesting connection since Miami just added former Bills defensive back Rasul Douglas on Tuesday.
Hilton has appeared in 123 career games with the Pittsburgh Steelers and Cincinnati Bengals, recording 520 tackles, 66 tackles for loss, 13 interceptions, six fumble recoveries, and one defensive touchdown.
Why Hilton Makes Sense for Buffalo
At first glance, adding another cornerback doesn’t seem like a priority for the Bills, even after Tre’Davious White’s latest setback. The team already spent a first-round pick on Maxwell Hairston, re-signed Dane Jackson, and welcomed White back, all to help replace Douglas and strengthen a defense that finished 24th in passing yards allowed per game (226.1).
Hilton’s 2024 production wasn’t eye-catching—just one interception and five pass breakups—but as Michael Haney of Buffalo Down pointed out, his experience and versatility could still bring valuable stability to Buffalo’s secondary.
Haney acknowledged that Hilton isn’t the same force he once was, noting that his 2024 season included a career-worst in pass breakups and the highest passer rating he has ever allowed. Still, Haney argued that the veteran corner can remain a useful piece for an NFL defense. At 31, Hilton continues to thrive as a slot corner, where he’s effective both in coverage and as a run supporter.
That last trait is particularly valuable. Hilton graded out as the top run-defending cornerback in the league last year, according to Pro Football Focus, earning a 91.7 mark out of 222 qualifiers. He was solid in pass coverage as well, landing 55th with a 68.4 grade. His overall score of 75.8 placed him 24th among all cornerbacks for the season.