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Bills safety Taylor Rapp ready to take on leadership role

ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. (WKBW) – Washington product Taylor Rapp entered the NFL as a rookie in 2019 for the Los Angeles Rams and earned a starting role. The Super Bowl champion had to humble himself during his transition to the Buffalo Bills last season.

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Jeffrey T. Barnes/AP

Buffalo Bills defensive back Taylor Rapp (20) runs a drill during an NFL football practice in Orchard Park, NY, Tuesday, May 23, 2023. (AP Photo/Jeffrey T. Barnes)

“The year I had last year. It seemed like my role was different than my first four years in the league,” Taylor Rapp said.

However, signing a one-year deal with the Bills during the free agency period was better than “ok” for veteran security.

“Probably the best thing that could have happened to my career, to my life, to my relationship with my wife. You know, we grew up off the field.”

Rapp has become a better player and teammate and credited much of his progress to the dynamic safety duo of Micah Hyde and Jordan Poyer.

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Rick Scuteri/AP

Buffalo Bills safety Micah Hyde (23) and safety Jordan Poyer (21) against the Pittsburgh Steelers during an NFL playoff football game Monday, January 15, 2024 in Orchard Park, NY. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)

“I really feel like these two guys are the best teammates I’ve had throughout my career.”

The hard work paid off and general manager Brandon Beane got Rapp a three-year extension.

A new defensive backroom that naturally makes Rapp the more experienced.

“It’s crazy because I’m going sixth grade, and I feel like it was just my first year, and I was in Cole’s place. My first year, I had Eric Weddle; he was a bit like my veterinarian.”

Even as a child, Rapp says he always wanted to play with his big brother and his friends.

“I think it played a huge role in my growth because I was always playing with older guys, always with older teams and all that. I think it played a huge role in my development.”

Now it’s Rapp’s turn to take the lead.

“I have to accept this. I have to accept this role.”