Buffalo, N.Y. (WGR Sports Radio 550) - When Jordan Hancock was growing up in Suwanee, Georgia, basketball was his first love. In fact, Hancock could dunk by the time he reached eighth grade, even though he was only 5-foot-7.
However, Hanock followed his football path instead, and was a four-star recruit and the fourth-ranked cornerback in the country in the Class of 2020.
Hancock initially committed to Clemson University, but eventually switched to Ohio State University. Not a bad idea since that program has a reputation for developing cornerbacks who get drafted in the NFL.
The now 6-foot, 195-pound Hancock emerged as a key defender in his nickel cornerback role in 2023. He could have declared for the draft after that season, but opted to return for his senior year in Columbus. It turned out to be a good decision, as the Buckeyes went on to win the national championship, and Hancock earned Honorable Mention All-Big Ten status.
Hancock started 23 games over his final two seasons with the Buckeyes. His four-year career numbers included three interceptions, four passes defended and 98 total tackles. He was part of a group of cornerbacks that referred to themselves as "BIA" or "Best In America".
The soon-to-be 22-year-old in August was a two-time scholar athlete at Ohio State, and is nearing completion of a degree in Human Development and Family Services.
Hancock showed his versatility with the Buckeyes, playing outside corner, slot and safety.
Buffalo Bills general manager Brandon Beane says they will work Hancock at safety and nickel during this year's spring activities. Then they will evaluate what to do with him come training camp.
Beane added Hancock is very football smart and played in a lot of meaningful games, so the NFL won't be too big for him.
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Here is what Joe Marino from the "Locked On Bills" and "Locked on NFL Scouting" podcasts had to say about Hancock:
Positives:
A versatile player that could play safety, can play in the nickel, and he's a very instinctive player that is physical.
I love how Jordan Hancock tackles. I love how he takes on contact. He's very good at putting his helmet on the football and separating the ball from the ball carrier. I think he's going to get some forced fumbles at the next level.
Obviously he can play multiple positions defensively, but I think everything about his game translates well to being an impact special teams player. He's got good size and athleticism.
There's a lot to like in the overall package for Hancock.
Concerns:
I don't think he's the best man-to-man player. He gets a little grabby at the top of routes, and I don't think he's super comfortable locating and playing the ball in the air. I think he's better when he gets to play with some depth and have some vision, as opposed to having to carry routes down the field and then locate the football.
I think that's where you see some issues pop up with him.
All Bills rookies will be in town for a rookie minicamp May 9-11.