Yesterday, we inquired about the position that the Buffalo Bills should prioritize addressing in the first round of the upcoming NFL Draft. The team has several needs on both offense and defense, but the defensive side of the roster has more deficiencies. However, an important offensive need could directly impact the performances of quarterback Josh Allen and wide receiver Stefon Diggs in the 2024 season.
Considering the impending free agency and its potential influence on the Bills’ draft strategy in April, it is crucial to consider players who may have already played their last games in a Buffalo Bills uniform.
First and foremost, Gabe Davis stands out as a player who is likely to command a high price as a free agent. Additionally, there are concerns along the defensive line, as only defensive tackle Ed Oliver is currently under contract. The defensive end group is also thin, with Von Miller, Greg Rousseau, Kingsley Jonathan, and Kameron Cline being the only players under contract for 2024. Furthermore, there are questions surrounding the safety position, including the situation with Micah Hyde and how much longer Jordan Poyer will be able to play.
Due to financial constraints, the Bills are expected to rely heavily on the draft to replenish their roster. They must ensure salary cap compliance by March 13, as they are currently well above the league’s updated $255.4 million salary cap. In the coming days, the team will likely need to engage in fiscal maneuvers and potentially bid farewell to some players in order to retain key talent and bring in new additions. These efforts are aimed at helping the team overcome playoff hurdles and reach new heights.
Contrary to expectations, Bills Mafia’s votes for the most important position in the first round did not heavily favor the defensive side of the ball. Surprisingly, 67% of respondents chose wide receiver as the position they believed the Bills should address in Round 1. It is interesting to note that defensive tackle came in second with 20% of the votes, followed by edge rusher/defensive end with 8%, and safety with 5%. Combined, these defensive positions accounted for only 33% of the total votes, falling short of half. While the defense certainly has its share of concerns, it appears that Bills fans are currently not inclined to prioritize addressing those needs in the first round of the draft.
While it’s understandable that many fans want the Buffalo Bills to use their top pick on a wide receiver, the actual decision will depend on how the draft board unfolds. It is widely acknowledged that the team’s success is closely tied to quarterback Josh Allen’s performance, and there were instances in both the 2023 and 2022 seasons where the wide receivers failed to meet expectations.
Recall that in the previous offseason, there were calls for the Bills to draft a wide receiver in the first round. However, just before their pick, four teams ahead of them selected receivers, forcing the Bills to think outside the box. They ultimately drafted a highly talented tight end prospect who possessed traits resembling those of a wide receiver, and this decision has proven fruitful.
Despite having tight end Dalton Kincaid, there is still a noticeable need for the team to add more dynamic receiving options to alleviate some of the pressure on Stefon Diggs and to provide Josh Allen with an improved target rate at the WR2 position.
Ultimately, the Buffalo Bills should prioritize drafting the best available player when they make their first pick, whether it is at the 28th spot or elsewhere. The current draft cycle seems to have a wealth of wide receiver talent, but it remains uncertain how other teams will prioritize selecting receivers. While prospects like Marvin Harrison Jr., Malik Nabers, and Rome Odunze may be unrealistic options at this stage, players like Brian Thomas Jr., Xavier Worthy, Keon Coleman, Javon Baker, Adonai Mitchell, Troy Franklin, and Ja’Lynn Polk could be available if General Manager Brandon Beane chooses to stay put and observe the draft unfold.
However, if an elite safety prospect like Kamren Kinchens were to fall into their lap, don’t discount the possibility of head coach Sean McDermott’s history with the position influencing the decision to draft a premier talent. The same could be true if defensive tackle T’Vondre Sweat becomes available.
If you have already voted, feel free to share your reasoning behind your choice. It’s a conversation where there is no wrong answer, as long as it doesn’t involve selecting a quarterback, tight end, running back, or specialist.
