Bills Consider Taron Johnson Position Change to Safety

Team eyes move to align with new defensive coordinator's 3-4 scheme

Feb. 25, 2026 at 4:48am

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The Buffalo Bills are exploring a potential position change for veteran cornerback Taron Johnson, considering shifting him to safety as the team transitions to a new 3-4 defensive scheme under coordinator Jim Leonhard. The move aims to optimize Johnson's skills and maximize the depth of the Bills' defensive backfield.

Why it matters

The proposed change reflects the Bills' intent to adapt their defense to better fit Leonhard's system, which places less emphasis on the traditional nickel cornerback role that Johnson has filled since joining the team in 2018. The move could also allow the Bills to leverage their depth at cornerback, including emerging young talents like Dorian Strong and Maxwell Hairston.

The details

General manager Brandon Beane shared that the coaching staff is contemplating repositioning Johnson to safety, as the team looks to align its roster with Leonhard's 3-4 defensive scheme. This system is designed to boost the Bills' pass rush and increase pressure on opposing quarterbacks, reducing the need for a dedicated nickel cornerback. Johnson's evolution into a strong tackler, with a 68.3 tackling grade in 2025, makes the safety position a natural fit for the 29-year-old veteran.

  • The Bills are exploring the potential position change for the 2026 season.

The players

Taron Johnson

A veteran cornerback who has been a mainstay as the Bills' primary nickel cornerback since joining the team in 2018.

Jim Leonhard

The Bills' new defensive coordinator, who plans to implement a 3-4 defensive scheme designed to boost the team's pass rush and increase pressure on opposing quarterbacks.

Brandon Beane

The Bills' general manager, who shared that the coaching staff is contemplating repositioning Johnson to safety as part of the team's defensive transition.

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What they’re saying

“The team isn't ruling out a possible position change for nickel cornerback Taron Johnson to safety. Beane said that's something that'll be considered.”

— Jay Skurski, Reporter (The Buffalo News)

What’s next

The Bills will continue to evaluate Taron Johnson's fit within the new defensive scheme and make a final decision on his position change in the coming months.

The takeaway

The Bills' proposed position change for Taron Johnson reflects the team's commitment to adapting its defense to better suit the new coordinator's system, while also maximizing the depth and versatility of the defensive backfield. This move highlights the team's proactive approach to optimizing its roster for long-term success.