Buffalo Bills Leodis McKelvin likely a game-time decision

Buffalo Bills cornerback Leodis McKelvin (21) breaks up a pass to Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Donnie Avery (11) during the game at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Thomas J. Russo-USA TODAY Sports

With Stephon Gilmore suffering from a wrist injury, the Buffalo Bills No. 1 cornerback has been Leodis McKelvin, and he has stepped up big-time so far this season. McKelvin shouldn’t be regarded as a bust, even if he was picked high in the first round of the 2008 draft. He is a dynamic return man, and he’s honestly a decent starting cornerback in this league with the ability to hold his own in the slot and on the outside. Nobody will call him a great player or even first-round worthy, but it’s totally unfair to throw the bust tag at McKelvin. He’s not exactly a good corner, but I feel like he’s played well and exceeded expectations through three weeks.

The Troy product suffered a hamstring injury last week against the New York Jets, and the Bills simply fell apart with him out (Justin Rogers just cannot be relied on). McKelvin was able to put in a limited practice yesterday, and that was certainly great news for Bills fans. If he misses this week’s game against the Baltimore Ravens, then the Buffalo Bills are in serious trouble. This pass defense is dealing with enough injuries as it is, and the remainder of the healthy players are horrendous. If McKelvin is out, then the only plus player in the secondary is strong safety Da’Norris Searcy.

According to the Bills official site, Doug Marrone stated that Leodis McKelvin will likely end up being a game-time decision, “I think he’s got a chance. I think it’ll be one those things where we go out before the game. He practiced (Thursday) on a limited basis. He went out there and ran around and I think that’ll be a game time decision.”

Later in the piece, McKelvin spoke about how difficult it is for a cornerback to play through a hamstring injury, and the Bills can only hope that he is able to play on Sunday and the team won’t be forced to start Aaron Williams at corner. They converted him to safety for a reason, and that’s because Williams just isn’t a good corner. Keep a close eye on McKelvin’s status.

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