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The defense of the Buffalo Bills has been one of the hottest topics among fans going into the 2026 season. A unit that has traditionally ranked high but fallen short when it mattered most is hoping that a coaching change and a few minor additions can make a world of difference.
As the Bills try to figure out what to do in their own secondary, a little bit of a positive spin is welcome. While the team will play more than a few quality defenders, these four defensive backs are among the worst that former MVP QB Josh Allen will face in 2026.
Ranking the 3 worst defensive backs the Bills will face in 2026
3.) Brandon Stephens, New York Jets
On one hand, Stephens started 16 games for the Jets last season after four years with the Baltimore Ravens. Stephens was decent overall, but the liability that he presents is real.
Stephens was one of the worst corners in football when in man coverage. Overall, he gave up 10 touchdowns per Pro Football Reference, and he also allowed a rating of 134.3 when passes came his way. With Allen going up against him twice a year, he should have a great day with whoever Stephens lines up again.
2.) Darrell Baker Jr., Miami Dolphins
The bottom completely fell out for the Dolphins in 2025, and the defense certainly played their part in that. They hope through a litany of moves - both signings and trades - to at least be competitive in what most are viewing as a rebuilding year.
Last season with the Tennessee Titans, Baker allowed 645 yards and 4 touchdowns, along with allowing a 69.8% completion rate when being targeted. Just like Stephens, Allen will have the chance to make life miserable for Baker twice this season.
1.) Isaiah Pola-Mao, Las Vegas Raiders
Pola-Mao had a rough 2025, but so did all the Raiders. He was okay as a run-defender, but the same can't be said about his pass coverage skills.
Look no further than the 120.7 passer rating he gave up when opposing quarterbacks targeted him and it becomes clear that he is a liability in pass coverage. The Raiders will no doubt try to keep him protected in coverage, but there is only so much they can do before Allen starts working his magic.
Big games for Josh Allen incoming?
Allen will likely be at his usual MVP level, leaving the defense only needing to do an adequate job in order to give the 30-year-old QB the clearance he needs. Allen has become a master at dissecting defenses, and these defensive backs will struggle while in his sights.
It also doesn’t hurt that each of these guys plays on porous teams. While they may not be directly responsible, it is safe to assume that Allen will walk away with healthy stats after each of these games.
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This article was originally published on buffalowdown.com as Ranking Josh Allen's most favorable passing matchups in 2026.
