Former Hawkeye Geno Stone Enters Critical Summer With Bills
The Buffalo Bills are overhauling their defense under new head coach Joe Brady and defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard. Four key newcomers, including former Iowa Hawkeye safety Geno Stone, face a critical summer to secure starting roles and prove their value to the team. With high expectations and a new system in place, these athletes must earn their spots on the field through hard work and merit.
What is at stake for the Buffalo Bills defense?
The Bills welcomed several new pieces this offseason, particularly on the defensive side of the ball. As part of an overhaul led by Leonhard, the team remade its edge rusher room, signed two experienced safeties, and drafted potential starters at cornerback and linebacker. While core players return, everyone must establish themselves in a new system. Sports Illustrated senior reporter Albert Breer noted that veteran additions like Bradley Chubb, Chauncey Gardner-Johnson, and Stone, along with draft pick T.J. Parker, are headed into a critical summer.
How is former Hawkeye Geno Stone fitting in with the Bills?
Stone has flown under the radar since signing with Buffalo in mid-March. The 27-year-old has not missed a game in the last four seasons and will compete directly with Gardner-Johnson for a starting safety role. Stone brings a reliable, hardworking mentality that resonates with football fans across Iowa.
“They're gonna get a guy that's gonna compete everyday, a guy that's gonna be in the right spots at the right time, and a leader. Now, I'm seven years in the league. I feel like I've been around a lot to know what it takes to be a pro in this league and what it takes to win,” said Stone.
Stone decided to sign with the Bills on the recommendation of fellow Iowa alumnus Micah Hyde. Having made 36 consecutive starts and recording seven interceptions for the Baltimore Ravens in 2023, Stone intends to extend his starting streak. With veteran Damar Hamlin also competing for playing time, Stone will face tough competition this summer.
Can Bradley Chubb solidify the Bills pass rush?
Bradley Chubb is changing teams, but he joins a familiar scheme that could bring out his best. Leonhard praised Chubb's experience, versatility, and leadership. The former No. 5 overall draft pick has already started establishing himself as a leader, even inviting rookie T.J. Parker to train with him in South Florida. Chubb, whose 8.5 sacks led the Bills in 2025, is the presumed starter opposite Greg Rousseau. Buffalo needs him to become the closer the pass rush has lacked.
Will Chauncey Gardner-Johnson's energy translate to success?
Gardner-Johnson's explosive personality has led him to play for four different teams in the past three seasons. However, the fiery safety has struck all the right chords so far in Buffalo. Leonhard expressed excitement about his passion and energy. During June minicamp, the Super Bowl LIX champion made his presence felt by picking off a pass from quarterback Josh Allen.
“He's a competitor. He's the loudest guy in the room at all times. He's a constant competitor, and nothing that he does is half speed. He does it full speed,” said Allen.
Gardner-Johnson, who recorded two six-interception seasons for the Philadelphia Eagles, is the favorite to start at safety alongside 2024 second-round pick Cole Bishop.
Is rookie T.J. Parker ready for the NFL?
A rookie's first summer is always crucial, especially for a player expecting a meaningful role. If Parker plans to break into the edge rusher rotation, he must be available to learn on the field during training camp and adjust to the speed of the professional game. The Clemson product aims to rediscover his 2024 form, when he totaled 11.0 sacks.
Bills veteran Ed Oliver called Parker a “cheat code” during June minicamp. The rookie looks like he belongs, although the pads still need to come on. Leonhard shared his enthusiasm for the young player.
“We're really excited to get him. We had our eyes on him early in the process, and just excited to see his mentality, his work ethic, and just the buy-in with the program,” said Leonhard.
With Rousseau and Chubb as probable starters and Michael Hoecht likely seeing ample time, Parker projects as the fourth edge rusher heading into training camp.
Why did Geno Stone sign with the Buffalo Bills?
Geno Stone signed with the Bills on the recommendation of fellow Iowa Hawkeye alumnus Micah Hyde. Stone valued the connection and the opportunity to compete for a starting role in a winning organization.
Who is the new defensive coordinator for the Bills?
Jim Leonhard is the new defensive coordinator for the Buffalo Bills. He is leading an overhaul of the defensive scheme for the upcoming season.
Which Bills newcomer has the most interceptions recently?
Geno Stone had seven interceptions for the Baltimore Ravens in 2023. Chauncey Gardner-Johnson also recorded six interceptions in both the 2022 and 2024 seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles.