NFL.com analyst Gil Brandt, formerly of the Cowboys front office, dished out 12 players that he believes their respective teams should never ever let go.
The list includes some of the league’s most recognizable faces from Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes and Giants running back Saquon Barkley. Also listed among this dozen is a member of the Buffalo Bills.
That player is cornerback Tre’Davious White.
Here’s why Brandt says the Bills should never think about losing their shutdown corner:
Yes, White ultimately lost the battle to then-Texans receiver DeAndre Hopkins during Buffalo’s playoff loss to Houston last season. But White did shut Hopkins down in the first half. At any rate, such struggles have been few and far between for a cornerback who has produced at a level commensurate with reigning Defensive Player of the Year — and ex-Bill — Stephon Gilmore. Buffalo can put White on the opponent’s best receiver and not sweat what will happen. Per Pro Football Focus, White was targeted 83 times without giving up a single receiving touchdown in 2019, the best mark among NFL cornerbacks, while quarterbacks posted a measly passer rating of 43.0 when throwing his way.
Of anyone on the Bills one would pick, White would be the standout selection. But putting him in this listing among some of the league’s biggest names is a big-time honor for White. If White produces another All-Pro season and the Bills crack the playoffs, or even win the AFC East in 2020, could the lockdown defender become a household name? He led the NFL with six interceptions a year ago.
In three seasons White’s been nothing short of excellent and the Bills have already flexed the fifth-year option attached to his rookie deal. After that, White will be paid among the league’s best cornerbacks and with his work ethic in mind, there should be no reason to second-guess paying him. Buffalo general manager Brandon Beane is aware of that.
Another fun note: White is the only player from the AFC East mentioned.
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