Huge Boost: Bills officially add former first-round pick DB to their squad

The Buffalo Bills have added safety  to their practice squad, as reported by NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo on Thursday morning.

With this signing, the Bills’ practice squad is now at its maximum capacity of 17 players. The team didn’t need to make any additional cuts because defensive end Kingsley Jonathan, who is classified as an international player, fills a special exemption spot.

Cine, a recent first-round pick by the Minnesota Vikings, became a notable target after being waived earlier this week as part of the Vikings’ roster reduction. Although he initially agreed to join the New York Jets’ practice squad, he decided to switch to the Bills, staying within the AFC East but moving to a different team.

Drafted 32nd overall by Minnesota in the 2022 NFL Draft, Cine won a National Championship with the Georgia Bulldogs and was named Defensive MVP of the championship game. He accumulated 145 tackles, 14 pass deflections, and three interceptions over his college career, playing a key role on a defense that produced several top prospects.

 

 

In the NFL, Cine has struggled to make an impact, appearing in only 10 games and recording just one tackle in two years. Despite a slow start, there is potential for him to develop into a starting player under the guidance of the Bills’ coaching staff, known for effectively developing defensive backs.

At 24 years old, Cine is currently on the practice squad, but he could potentially enter the ongoing competition for a starting safety position. The Bills have been evaluating candidates to play alongside Taylor Rapp, with Damar Hamlin, Cole Bishop, and Mike Edwards all dealing with injuries during training camp. Although none of these players have secured the starting role yet, Cine’s presence could influence the competition.