Buffalo Bills Sign Veteran Free-Agent Safety

The Bills added more depth to their safety squad as Kareem Jackson signed a one-year deal with the team on Tuesday morning. 

Linebacker Shayne Simon was released in a corresponding move. 

Jackson is set to wear No. 27

The “safety squad” needs some adjustments as this is the first time in seven-years there’s no Micah Hyde or Jordan Poyer in the room. However, it is more likely that Jackson will add depth and experience to the roster, as Cole Bishop and Damar Hamlin compete for the starting spot.

The signing was also announced after reports of a hamstring injury for Mike Edwards, who was described as “week-to-week” by head coach Sean McDermott. 

Jackson was also able to make it to St. John Fisher University for his first training camp practice with the team on Tuesday. It’s the Bills second day of padded practices.

The defensive back previously played for Houston from 2010-18 and again in 2023, but also spent time as a Bronco from 2019-23. Denver released him in December of the 2023 season before the Texans picked him up via waiver claim. 

The 5-foot-10 safety was a first-round pick in the 2010 NFL Draft, selected 20th overall by Houston. In his first nine years with the Texans, Jackson was a cornerback. 

In 10 games last season, he managed 55 total tackles, two interceptions and three deflected passes. He was suspended for six games last season for unnecessary roughness after being ejected from a game against the Green Bay Packers and the Minnesota Vikings for hard hits.

Thus far in his career he’s mustered 954 tackles — 737 were solo — 22 interceptions (three for touchdowns), three sacks, 110 passes defended, seven forced fumbles and seven fumble recoveries.

Jackson will wear No. 27, which was previously worn by Tre’Davious White, who is now a corner for the Los Angeles Rams.