Bills Central

Bills' All-Pro DB has great expectations for 'ready to go' Jordan Poyer

Jordan Poyer is back in Orchard Park with the Buffalo Bills, and one fellow defensive back spoke about what that means for the unit
Jan 21, 2024; Orchard Park, New York, USA; Buffalo Bills safety Jordan Poyer (21) causes a fumble on Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Mecole Hardman Jr. (12) through the end zone for a touchback during the second half for the 2024 AFC divisional round
Jan 21, 2024; Orchard Park, New York, USA; Buffalo Bills safety Jordan Poyer (21) causes a fumble on Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Mecole Hardman Jr. (12) through the end zone for a touchback during the second half for the 2024 AFC divisional round | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Taron Johnson was a rookie during what was Jordan Poyer's second season as a Buffalo Bills' starter.

Since climbing aboard, Johnson, a 2018 fifth-round draft pick, has become a highly important piece to Buffalo's defensive scheme as a physical nickel cornerback, who isn't afraid to play the run.

For six seasons, Johnson played alongside Poyer in the Bills' secondary.

In 2021, Poyer earned All-Pro honors and Johnson followed two years later. In 2024, the latter went to the Miami Dolphins, but, now, much to the delight of the former, he's back in Orchard Park.

RELATED: 'Unique' Buffalo Bills sixth-year fullback 'definition of what you want'

"I'm happy to see my guys, guys I've played with for years. I feel like it's a blessing for the organization to have Po' back. He knows the game so well. It's his 13th year in the league," said Johnson after Poyer's first practice since returning.

Taron Johnson Pick 6
Jan 16, 2021; Orchard Park, New York, USA; Buffalo Bills cornerback Taron Johnson (24) runs with the ball for a touchdown after making an interception against the Baltimore Ravens during the second half of an AFC Divisional Round | Mark Konezny-Imagn Images

While the 34-year-old Poyer will initially stay on the practice squad, Johnson suggested that the wily veteran still appears physically capable of making an impact.

MORE: Determined Jordan Poyer has 'the receipts' as he embarks on second Bills' stint

"If the time calls for that, I know he's gonna be ready. He looks great out there. He's in shape, and he's ready to go," said Johnson.

Having started 107 regular season games for Sean McDermott's teams over the years, Poyer naturally holds a mental edge over younger players such as 2024 second-round draft pick Cole Bishop.

RELATED: Former captain's wife reveals what differentiates Bills from other NFL teams

"He's been on this defense. He's been an All-Pro on this defense, so he knows the defense, inside and out. He's here to help us. He's here to help the young guys, the young safeties, get after if and see things that maybe he sees, that maybe they don't. I feel like it's going to be a tremendous help for us," said Johnson.

Sounds like the 29-year-old Johnson is more than excited to see another one of the boys back in town.

—  Enjoy free coverage of the Bills from Buffalo Bills on SI  —

More Buffalo Bills News:


Published | Modified
Ralph Ventre
RALPH VENTRE

Ralph, a former college football conference administrator, brings 20+ years of media experience to Buffalo Bills ON SI. Prior to focusing on the Bills, he spent two years covering the New York Jets. Ventre initially joined the ON SI family in 2021, providing NCAA Football Championship Subdivision for NFL Draft Bible on FanNation. Ventre remains as an official voter for the Stats Perform FCS Top 25 and the annual legacy awards. The Fordham University graduate is a member of the Pro Football Writers of America.