Maxwell Hairston had another chance to speak about the Buffalo Bills’ loss to the New England Patriots, and this time, he made sure he did not walk away.
The second-year cornerback made a rare Monday appearance at the podium to apologize for leaving the locker room without speaking to reporters following Sunday’s 29-26 loss.
Hairston acknowledged that his emotions got the better of him after the disappointing finish.
“I was feeling emotional and I let my emotions get the best of me,” Hairston said. “I didn’t want to say something I might’ve regretted.”
The moment came after a difficult afternoon for the young cornerback. New England’s game-winning touchdown came late in the fourth quarter, putting the Patriots ahead and handing Buffalo its first loss of the season.
Rather than avoid the situation, Hairston returned the following day to address his decision. He described his postgame exit as immature and took responsibility for how he handled the disappointment.
Hairston’s response also came as Buffalo dealt with other issues on defense. Christian Benford was unavailable, while Ed Oliver left the game with an injury, leaving the Bills with less depth as the game progressed.
Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images
The loss dropped Buffalo to 3-1, but the Bills remain atop the AFC East. They will now have to regroup quickly with another difficult matchup ahead.
For Hairston, the apology provides an opportunity to put the emotional moment behind him. His next step will be responding on the field as Buffalo looks to bounce back.
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