Max Hairston’s Uncertain Return as Bills Coach McDermott Sets Expectations
The Buffalo Bills find themselves navigating a challenging situation with their first-round cornerback Max Hairston. After suffering a knee injury during training camp, the promising rookie from Kentucky has been sidelined, landing him on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list. As a result, he is expected to miss at least the first four games of the season.
Coach McDermott’s Cautious Outlook
Head coach Sean McDermott addressed the media, providing an update on Hairston’s progress but tempered expectations significantly. “He’s working and moving in the right direction,” McDermott noted, as reported by Matt Parrino. However, he also acknowledged the long road ahead for Hairston, emphasizing the dual challenges he faces.
“He has been out since training camp, so while he’s making progress physically, there’s also the mental aspect of getting back into the playbook and understanding everything,” McDermott added. With this in mind, he advised fans and analysts alike to “lower expectations” regarding Hairston’s return, highlighting the necessity of taking things “one day at a time” as they monitor his rehabilitation.
Possibility of No Return This Season
The situation appears even more precarious, as additional insights from Joe Buscaglia suggest that Hairston’s return is not guaranteed. McDermott’s use of the phrase “when and if” has raised concerns about the rookie’s potential to play this season. As Buscaglia noted on social media, the coach hinted that there remains a possibility that Hairston may not return at all, a scenario that would undoubtedly impact the Bills’ defensive strategy.
As the team gears up for the season, the uncertainty surrounding Hairston’s status adds another layer of complexity to their preparations. With their first four games looming, the Bills will have to strategize without one of their top defensive assets, hoping for the best but preparing for the possibility of his extended absence.
