Damar Hamlin pretty much earned a Buffalo Bills starting safety job by default in 2024.

When second-round pick Cole Bishop got hurt, it left Hamlin out there to control the preseason reps and hold down the spot.

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That doesn’t look like it’ll be the case this season.

Bishop, out of Utah, is seemingly healthy for his second season.

“I think (Bishop) has made some plays out there,” GM Brandon Beane said after minicamp. “He just needs as many reps as he can. So hopefully, once we get to St. John Fisher, no setbacks and have a full camp.”

Taylor Rapp looks like he’ll hold down one safety spot.

That leaves Bishop and Hamlin battling for the other.

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SI predicts Bishop to win the competition.

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The battle could also include Darrick Forrest, who once was a starter for Washington but has battled injuries in 2023 and 2024.

“After making three starts in place of an injured Hamlin last December, Bishop went back to second string for the Bills’ wildcard playoff game against the Denver Broncos,” SI’s Ralph Ventre writes. “It’s not surprising that head coach Sean McDermott opted for the more battle-tested player when he became available again, especially when the stakes are raised in the postseason.

“It’s presumed, however, that Bishop’s full rookie experience will benefit when vying for a starting role in Year 2. If he proves capable of making the necessary mental adjustments, the 2024 second-rounder’s athleticism should allow him to win the position.”

Hamlin should still see some playing time even if he loses the starting job. His roster spot shouldn’t be in danger.

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But the Bills’ upside is definitely higher if Bishop is the one who is starting come Week 1 and can start to live up to his potential.

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