While cornerback Xavier Rhodes is a brand new player for the Buffalo Bills, the NFL is not for him.
The 32-year-old signed on the dotted line with the Bills this week. After, the 10-year vet admitted he had been waiting for a shot… and not just that, he’s been prepping to play.
“I was out there just working out, doing something I love,” Rhodes said to the team’s website. “I was just waiting on the call and then once it came– I always tell myself, stay ready so you don’t have to get ready.”
If Rhodes truly is ready, Buffalo might need him and right away.
While corner Dane Jackson has practiced in a limited fashion ahead of the Bills’ meeting with the Baltimore Ravens this week, his game status is still up in the air. Not to mention, the same can be said for safety Jordan Poyer while cornerback Christian Benford (hand) has already been ruled out.
Buffalo head coach Sean McDermott acknowledged that the veteran in Rhodes appealed to the Bills. But McDermott chose his words carefully when discussing Rhodes on Wednesday.
The coach said Rhodes brings a veteran presence… but he has to see Rhodes practice before making any decision.
“Experienced player. He’s played a lot of football. Ball production. Smart, veteran player,” McDermott said via video conference. “Came in the other day [for a workout] and did a good job and we’re looking forward to seeing him on the field.”
Rhodes was a first-round pick of the Minnesota Vikings in 2013. After playing there until 2019, Rhodes signed back-to-back one-year deals with the Indianapolis Colts the past two years.
According to Pro Football Focus, Rhodes turned in a coverage grade of 74.8 over the last two seasons.
But it will still be up to the Bills coaching staff to determine if Rhodes, a former All-Pro, is ready to roll in Baltimore.