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A Mid-Season Look At Buffalo's Positional Needs
This is a mid-season look at some draft prospects that could help address what look to be Buffalo's positions of need. These are just a few options I have spent some time watching, and I tried to include players that aren't necessarily early picks, as some positions could use more than one player added to the roster. Also, this is just one man's opinion. Some players got more attention than others when being evaluated, and some may not even be in this year's draft. These aren't what I think the only positions of need are, but probably the ones that need to be addressed more than others at this point.
OG: 6
Cyril Richardson - OG/OT - Baylor - 6'5'' 335 Lbs - Sr.(R) - Dominant player that helped RGIII/Ganaway (2011) Martin (2011-2013) Seastrunk (2012-2013) and Linwood (2013) be some of the biggest offensive threats in college football. Richardson might be the top guard in this draft class, and could possibly fill a gaping hole on Buffalo's line at LG. He looks exceptionally athletic for his size, and has experience at OG and OT. Does well against good competition, playing with a violent style and steady effort. (1st Round)
Gabe Jackson - OG - Mississippi State - 6'4'' 335 Lbs - Sr.(R) - Athletic guard and 4 year starter. Jackson has dominated some of the SEC's best and keeps just about everyone in check. What he lacks can be coached into him, but he doesn't appear to lack much. Like Richardson, could be an instant fix for the biggest hole on the OL, and has had an impact on the success of those around him. Ideal size and experience, also in the conversation for best OG in the class. (1st-2nd Round)
La'el Collins - OG/OT - LSU - 6'5'' 321 Lbs - Jr. - Collins has played both LG and LT for the Tigers with a lot of experience in the SEC, and he might have the ability to play both positions in the NFL. Extremely young at just 20 years old, his ceiling looks to be very high, and he has been able to steadily improve his game over time. Might take more development because he is so young, but also has the potential to be good from the start, especially with the supporting lineman he would be surrounded by. Could go early if he declares, probably a better fit at OG. (2nd-3rd Round)
David Yankey - OG/OT - Stanford - 6'5'' 311 Lbs - Sr. - Experienced at both OG and OT on the left and right side. Balanced OL with an athletic build. Key contributor to Stanford's success over the past few seasons. All-American that could address LG and provide another option if Glenn or Pears go down. (1st-3rd Round)
Tre Jackson - OG - Florida State - 6'4'' 330 Lbs - Jr. - Athletic OG considering his size. Jackson has helped Manuel in 2012 and Winston in 2013 achieve quite a bit of success on offense against pretty good competition. Could stay in school, but declaring could land him in the early-mid rounds. (2nd-4th Round)
Brandon Thomas - OG - Clemson - 6'3'' 305 Lbs - Sr.(R) - Thomas has helped Clemson's offense be very successful over the past few seasons. He could add some bulk, but has played well overall for the Tigers, and has experience at guard and tackle. (5th-6th Round)
- LG appears to be the biggest hole on the offensive line. Glenn and Pears look to be solid bookends, and if Hairston can come back healthy next season and play like he has, OT doesn't appear to be a massive need. Wood looks like he wants to be a Bill for life, as he is signed until 2018. He has played very well, and seems to always be getting better. Urbik also committed to the team long-term signing until 2017, and has proven to be one of Buffalo's best acquisitions outside the draft in recent memory. This class has a good amount of OG prospects with OT experience. Buffalo does need a solid OG/OC capable backup, but that can be addressed in the mid-late rounds.
DE/OLB: 6
Khalil Mack - OLB/ILB - Buffalo - 6'3'' 248 Lbs - Sr. - Mack is explosive, fast, and strong. In a D like Pettine's, Mack is the type of player that could be utilized as the biggest playmaking threat on the field. He has shown that he can come up big against top level competition, and higher quality coaching and support could put him in the position to be great at the next level. Watch his performance against Ohio State. He isn't a sack master, but has the versatility to become a threat in so many ways. Has the ability to play ILB (3-4), OLB (3-4 and 4-3), and DE(4-3). (1st-2nd Round)
Trent Murphy - DE/OLB - Stanford - 6'6'' 261 Lbs - Sr. - Murphy is a huge reason Stanford's D has been successful in recent years. Good ability as a run stuffer and pass rusher standing up or as a down lineman, Murphy shows good hand work, leverage, power, and instincts. Regularly drops into coverage, so his sack numbers could be even higher if he wasn't used as a utility player, which isn't necessarily a bad thing. Potential 1st rounder with a lot of success against top competition. (1st-2nd Round)
Chris Smith - DE/OLB - Arkansas - 6'3'' 251 Lbs - Sr. - 4-3 DE / 3-4 OLB that has experience with his hand in the dirt and standing up. Looks to have exceptional burst and surprising power. 2 year starter that saw a good amount of action as a freshman and sophomore. Athletic enough to fill that "utility" role in Pettine's looks. (2nd-4th Round)
Ben Gardner - DE/OLB - Stanford - 6'4'' 275 Lbs - Sr. - Smart and physical player with experience standing up and in a 3 point stance. Sound in most areas technically. Might be athletic enough to play a utility role in a multi-front D, but would be best in a 4 man front. (3rd-4th Round)
Scott Crichton - DE/OLB - Oregon State - 6'3'' 265 Lbs - Jr. - Crichton had a solid sophomore season in 2012 but hasn't done much as a junior. He might benefit from waiting another season to enter the draft, but he could be a mid-round developmental pick that could be moved around in Pettine's varied front. (4th-5th Round)
Demarcus Lawrence - DE/OLB - Boise State - 6'3'' 244 Lbs Jr.(R) - Very athletic player that has been able to get after the quarteback with 17 sacks since the start of the 2012 season. Another player that could be used as a utility-type player in Buffalo's varied front. Might return for his senior season. (5th-6th Round)
- So far, Buffalo's down lineman (M. Williams, K. Williams, Dareus, Lawson) have provided some of the biggest plays of the season. Also, Jerry Hughes is proving he was worth trading for, but the team doesn't have many hybrid types outside of that. Some of the players in this class may have the ability to play multiple roles in varied fronts, with a good amount of them having experience doing so. The defense obviously needs help, and I think LB is one of the weaker positions for the Bills.
TE: 6
Austin Seferian-Jenkins - TE - Washington - 6'6'' 276 - Jr. - 130 Rec - 1634 Yds - 17 TD Career - Possibly the best TE in this draft class, Seferian-Jenkins is an exceptional receiving TE with great size. He has some huge games against very good teams. Keith Price isn't a great QB, but S-J has made plays when given the chance. The Washington passing game hasn't been as successful this season and his numbers are down, though his blocking has improved quite a bit. Only 21 years old, he could just be scratching the surface. This pick making sense will depend on how he finishes the season, where Buffalo ends up in the draft, if he declares or not, if Buffalo chooses to move back like they did last season, and if they re-sign Chandler. (1st-2nd Round)
Jace Amaro - TE - Texas Tech - 6'5'' 260 Lbs - Jr. - 96 Rec - 1327 Yds - 9 TD Career - Reliable receiving TE with some highlight-reel catches under his belt. Has the size to become an effective blocker, though his obvious strength is catching the ball, as Tech regularly splits him out. Presents a physical mismatch to most opponents displaying the ability to stretch the field. Some people have him as a possible 1st rounder, but it is extremely rare for more than one TE to be a 1st round choice, though it isn't out of the question with this class. Amaro is absolutely on fire this season with 64 Rec - 861 Yds - 3 TD through 8 games. He has had less than 8 catches only once this season in the opener. (2nd-3rd Round)
Eric Ebron - TE - North Carolina - 6'4'' - 245 Lbs - Jr. - Doesn't have the ideal #1 TE size, but isn't far off, and some have him as a top 3 player at his position. Look around the league and see how just about every dominant TE has an imposing size/athleticism combo. If Ebron can attain the size the potential is there. Ebron is an exceptional athlete, makes highlight-reel catches, and is very hard to tackle. (1st-3rd Round)
Arthur Lynch - TE - Georgia - 6'5'' 254 Lbs - Sr. (R) - Balanced TE with good size. Not that explosive, but shows the ability to make the tough catch and he knows how to use his size. Gives his all when run blocking, and also has lined up as an H-back. Lynch has had good games against some of the better teams on the schedule and has the frame to bulk up. I wouldn't expect him to become a major receiving threat, but he could become a utility-type player. (3rd-4th Round)
C.J. Fiedorowicz - TE - Iowa - 6'7'' 265 Lbs - Sr. - Scott Chandler reincarnate? Virtually identical in size, he appears to have above average speed for his size. Also has a lot of blocking experience with solid ability in that department. He hasn't had a solid QB throwing him the ball yet, but has made some impressive catches in his career. Probably not a #1 TE, but might be worth developing. (3rd-4th Round)
Marcel Jensen - TE - Fresno State - 6'6'' 270 Lbs - Sr.(R) - Balanced TE with the size to be a solid blocker. Shows some receiving ability with good athletic ablility for his size. Developmental TE . (5th-6th Round)
- Hackett's scheme looks like it doesn't put the TE into consideration all that much as a receiving option, but Chandler's future as a Bill is uncertain, possibly making this position one of the top needs. I'm not saying they should jump the gun and take a TE in the 1st, but depending on where they end up in the 1st round or if they move back. Some might be players worth the pick if they end up picking later in the 1st, and this is only a mid-season opinion.
CB: 5
Kyle Fuller - CB - Virginia Tech - 6'0'' 189 Lbs - Sr. - Tough corner that has done just about everything for the Hokies. He can cover, blitz, help against the run, and play solid special teams. Very experienced against good competition. I'm still iffy on Buffalo going CB this early with Gilmore and McKelvin locked up long term, but Fuller could be a versatile addition to a shallow secondary. If they can't re-sign Byrd, Fuller would allow A. Williams to go back to FS full time and give the Bills a big boost to a somewhat weak spot in the D. (2nd-3rd Round)
Justin Gilbert - CB - Oklahoma State - 6'0'' 200 Lbs - Sr. - Solid size and a 3 year starter, Gilbert has success and experience against some very good passing teams. Exceptional return man. He could be a player that kicks McKelvin inside in nickel situations or replaces him on special teams, allowing #21 to stay fresh as the #2 CB. Like Fuller, he could be the missing piece in Buffalo's CB unit. One more solid corner could give them depth and versatility with Gilmore on the rise, McKelvin developing into a solid player, and Robey appearing to be another UDFA steal. (2nd-4th Round)
Bennett Jackson - CB - Notre Dame - 6'1'' 185 Lbs - Sr. - Solid size/athleticism combo that has shown he isn't afraid to come up hard in run support. Some experience at safety. Looks like he needs work like most mid-rounders. 2 year starter that saw a lot of reserve action in his first two years. (3rd-5th Round)
Jaylen Watkins - CB - Florida - 6'0'' 188 Lbs - Sr. - Watkins is a talented corner that happens to play behind two of the best DBs in college football (Purifoy and Roberson) similar to Ron Brooks' situation at LSU. Smooth athlete with a lot of experience. (4th-5th Round)
Merrill Noel - CB - Wake Forest - 5'10'' 180 Lbs - Jr.(R) - Cover corner needing development that may stay in college. Noel had an exceptional freshman campaign with 19 PD and 2 INT. After a down sophomore year, he has started 2013 strong. Might return for his senior season, but could be a mid-late pick in 2014 if he declares. (5th-7th Round)
- If Gilmore stays on track he should be a good #1 CB, though an injury has caused some delay. McKelvin has stepped up this season after flashing ability in previous seasons, and looks to be the long-term #2 after signing an extension until 2017. Robey has been a pleasant surprise as a UDFA, but probably should be the 4th CB option. The team doesn't have many proven CBs, so this could be one of the bigger needs when it comes to solidifying the defense. I think they could look at this position from the 2nd and on if they want to kick McKelvin inside, or even if they think a stud nickel is worth an early pick.
ILB: 5
Yawin Smallwood - ILB - UCONN - 6'3'' 244 Lbs - Jr.(R) - While UCONN has been pretty awful this season, they have produced some quality NFL talent over the past few seasons. Smallwood has been a steady force for the Huskies, and has played very well when facing tougher competition. He sheds blocks well and diagnoses plays pretty fast. Very durable and productive. (3rd Round)
Shayne Skov - ILB/OLB - Stanford - 6'3'' 244 Lbs - Sr.(R) - Plays with a nasty streak. Big hitter that also blitzes well and has some ability in pass coverage. Attacks blockers and sheds well, he has improved since coming back from a torn ACL a few seasons ago, appearing to be a top ILB in this class. Skov could be an instant upgrade over Moats and welcome compliment on the inside. (3rd Round)
Andrew Jackson - ILB - Western Kentucky - 6'1'' 257 Lbs - Jr.(R) - Big, violent, and a 3 year starter. Jackson plays with fire and could be a solid Mike backer in Pettine's 3-4 hybrid. 2 down LB, but a thumper next to Kiko in 3-4 looks seems to be what the team needs. (3rd-4th Round)
Max Bullough - ILB - Michigan State - 6'3'' 245 Lbs - Sr. - Experienced senior with good production, Bullough has the size and aggresive nature to play the strong side ILB spot in a 3-4. (4th-5th Round)
Caleb Lavey - ILB - Oklahoma State - 6'3'' 235 Lbs - Sr. - 3 year starter with solid production. Should be able to contribute on special teams with the potential to become a contributor on defense. (6th-UDFA)
- ILB is an interesting position with the current roster taken into consideration. Kiko has emerged as a playmaker, and a second ILB doesn't appear to be as crucial of a part in this multi-front D. With that being said, it does seem to be one of the positions the team lacks depth at, and a step up in talent never hurts. The run D clearly needs help, and linebacker looks to be one of the reasons. A true ILB will only expand versatility and strengthen traditional fronts, and some of these prospects could play 4-3 OLB as well.
DE/DT: 3
Ed Stinson - DE/DT - Alabama - 6'4'' 292 Lbs - Sr. - Strong run defender with the potential to improve his pass rush skills. 3 year starter for an exceptional Bama D. Could be a solid rotational DL as a 3-4 DE and 4-3 DT similar to what Carrington provided in recent years as his future with the team is uncertain. (2nd-3rd Round)
Henry Anderson - DE - Stanford - 6'6'' 282 Lbs - Sr. - 3-4 DE / 4-3 LE with a balanced skill set considering position projection. Plays strong and reacts quick, could kick inside on passing downs. Anderson was injured in the first game, but a strong return could place him in the mid rounds. (3rd-5th Round)
Deandre Coleman - DE/DT - Cal - 6'5'' 315 Lbs - Sr. - 3-4 DE / 4-3 DT that displays good power at the line. Doesn't give much ground, and holds down the strong side well on an otherwise shaky Cal run D. Coleman has made some impressive stops and has some success getting to the QB. (3rd-5th Round)
- Again, depending on how things unfold, this may be a pretty big need. Carrington has developed into a good utility lineman (even standing up at times) but suffered a season ending injury and is a free agent next season. Alan Branch has played pretty well in his absence and played well for Seattle, but he is also a free agent in 2014. Re-signing either could push this need down and would be ideal, but I think they might add a player or two in that mold in the mid rounds even if they do.
RB: 3
Charles Sims - RB - West Virginia - 6'0'' 213 Lbs - Sr.(R) - Balanced back with good receiving ability. Sims has been productive between his time at Houston (2009 2011 2012) and WVU (2013). Fluid runner that follows his blocks well that could be a solid complimentary NFL RB. (2nd-4th Round)
James Wilder Jr. - RB - Florida State - 6'2'' 226 Lbs - Jr. - Power Back with decent burst. Servicable receiver out of the backfield. Wilder Jr. Splits time with Devonta Freeman who is also an early-mid round prospect. (3rd-5th Round)
Glasco Martin - RB - Baylor - 6'1'' 220 Lbs - Sr.(R) - Power Back coming off injury, he has been a good compliment to one of the top RBs in this class Lache Seastrunk, and actually had more TDs on the ground in 2012 with 15 than Seastrunk did with 7. (5th-7th Round)
- RB isn't a huge concern, but Fred and C.J. have been banged up, and Fred isn't getting any younger. A long-term compliment to C.J. with some power could give the team a change-of-pace back to keep Spiller fresh. Choice has been a good #3, but competition never hurt. I'd like to see them add a bruiser for some insurance.
WR: 3
L'Damian Washington - WR - Missouri - 6'4'' 205 Lbs - Sr.(R) - Washington wasn't a big part of the Missouri offense until this season, but he took advantage of his opprotunities as a sophomore and junior averaging 17.9 yds per catch over those two seasons. Tall WR that could fill a role the Bills currently lack on offense. (5th-7th Round)
Matt Miller - WR - Boise State - 6'3'' 218 Lbs - Jr.(R) - Big, physical WR with decent production as a 3 year starter. If he declares, he could be a mid-late rounder at this point. Uses his size to fight for yards after contact. (5th-UDFA)
Alex Neutz - WR - Buffalo - 6'3'' 205 Lbs - Sr.(R) - Productive hometown kid (Grand Island, NY) that has had big games against some pretty good teams like Baylor, Georgia, and Pitt. He also gave a very good UCONN corner tandem (Gratz, Wreh-Wilson) trouble with 11 catches for 173 yds in two games. (7th-UDFA)
- Buffalo lacks height somewhat at the WR spot, though they have built what appears to be a talented group with loads of speed. I don't think they will invest much more in the position with an early pick, but a mid-late rounder seems like a reasonable move. Bringing in someone with the ability to go up and get it could add another dimension to the offense, especially in the red zone. If they feel that there is a WR in this class they can't pass up, I wouldn't be shocked if they took one early if they don't think Graham or Goodwin are starters. Someone like a Mike Evans, Sammy Watkins, or Marquise Lee. If they invest that much into the position, size isn't as big of an issue.
Obviously there are plenty of players that could be in Buffalo uniforms next season that weren't mentioned. Safety is another potential big need depending on the Byrd situation, but I'm going to leave that one alone for now. Now, to the point of the thread, discuss!
OG: 6
Cyril Richardson - OG/OT - Baylor - 6'5'' 335 Lbs - Sr.(R) - Dominant player that helped RGIII/Ganaway (2011) Martin (2011-2013) Seastrunk (2012-2013) and Linwood (2013) be some of the biggest offensive threats in college football. Richardson might be the top guard in this draft class, and could possibly fill a gaping hole on Buffalo's line at LG. He looks exceptionally athletic for his size, and has experience at OG and OT. Does well against good competition, playing with a violent style and steady effort. (1st Round)
Gabe Jackson - OG - Mississippi State - 6'4'' 335 Lbs - Sr.(R) - Athletic guard and 4 year starter. Jackson has dominated some of the SEC's best and keeps just about everyone in check. What he lacks can be coached into him, but he doesn't appear to lack much. Like Richardson, could be an instant fix for the biggest hole on the OL, and has had an impact on the success of those around him. Ideal size and experience, also in the conversation for best OG in the class. (1st-2nd Round)
La'el Collins - OG/OT - LSU - 6'5'' 321 Lbs - Jr. - Collins has played both LG and LT for the Tigers with a lot of experience in the SEC, and he might have the ability to play both positions in the NFL. Extremely young at just 20 years old, his ceiling looks to be very high, and he has been able to steadily improve his game over time. Might take more development because he is so young, but also has the potential to be good from the start, especially with the supporting lineman he would be surrounded by. Could go early if he declares, probably a better fit at OG. (2nd-3rd Round)
David Yankey - OG/OT - Stanford - 6'5'' 311 Lbs - Sr. - Experienced at both OG and OT on the left and right side. Balanced OL with an athletic build. Key contributor to Stanford's success over the past few seasons. All-American that could address LG and provide another option if Glenn or Pears go down. (1st-3rd Round)
Tre Jackson - OG - Florida State - 6'4'' 330 Lbs - Jr. - Athletic OG considering his size. Jackson has helped Manuel in 2012 and Winston in 2013 achieve quite a bit of success on offense against pretty good competition. Could stay in school, but declaring could land him in the early-mid rounds. (2nd-4th Round)
Brandon Thomas - OG - Clemson - 6'3'' 305 Lbs - Sr.(R) - Thomas has helped Clemson's offense be very successful over the past few seasons. He could add some bulk, but has played well overall for the Tigers, and has experience at guard and tackle. (5th-6th Round)
- LG appears to be the biggest hole on the offensive line. Glenn and Pears look to be solid bookends, and if Hairston can come back healthy next season and play like he has, OT doesn't appear to be a massive need. Wood looks like he wants to be a Bill for life, as he is signed until 2018. He has played very well, and seems to always be getting better. Urbik also committed to the team long-term signing until 2017, and has proven to be one of Buffalo's best acquisitions outside the draft in recent memory. This class has a good amount of OG prospects with OT experience. Buffalo does need a solid OG/OC capable backup, but that can be addressed in the mid-late rounds.
DE/OLB: 6
Khalil Mack - OLB/ILB - Buffalo - 6'3'' 248 Lbs - Sr. - Mack is explosive, fast, and strong. In a D like Pettine's, Mack is the type of player that could be utilized as the biggest playmaking threat on the field. He has shown that he can come up big against top level competition, and higher quality coaching and support could put him in the position to be great at the next level. Watch his performance against Ohio State. He isn't a sack master, but has the versatility to become a threat in so many ways. Has the ability to play ILB (3-4), OLB (3-4 and 4-3), and DE(4-3). (1st-2nd Round)
Trent Murphy - DE/OLB - Stanford - 6'6'' 261 Lbs - Sr. - Murphy is a huge reason Stanford's D has been successful in recent years. Good ability as a run stuffer and pass rusher standing up or as a down lineman, Murphy shows good hand work, leverage, power, and instincts. Regularly drops into coverage, so his sack numbers could be even higher if he wasn't used as a utility player, which isn't necessarily a bad thing. Potential 1st rounder with a lot of success against top competition. (1st-2nd Round)
Chris Smith - DE/OLB - Arkansas - 6'3'' 251 Lbs - Sr. - 4-3 DE / 3-4 OLB that has experience with his hand in the dirt and standing up. Looks to have exceptional burst and surprising power. 2 year starter that saw a good amount of action as a freshman and sophomore. Athletic enough to fill that "utility" role in Pettine's looks. (2nd-4th Round)
Ben Gardner - DE/OLB - Stanford - 6'4'' 275 Lbs - Sr. - Smart and physical player with experience standing up and in a 3 point stance. Sound in most areas technically. Might be athletic enough to play a utility role in a multi-front D, but would be best in a 4 man front. (3rd-4th Round)
Scott Crichton - DE/OLB - Oregon State - 6'3'' 265 Lbs - Jr. - Crichton had a solid sophomore season in 2012 but hasn't done much as a junior. He might benefit from waiting another season to enter the draft, but he could be a mid-round developmental pick that could be moved around in Pettine's varied front. (4th-5th Round)
Demarcus Lawrence - DE/OLB - Boise State - 6'3'' 244 Lbs Jr.(R) - Very athletic player that has been able to get after the quarteback with 17 sacks since the start of the 2012 season. Another player that could be used as a utility-type player in Buffalo's varied front. Might return for his senior season. (5th-6th Round)
- So far, Buffalo's down lineman (M. Williams, K. Williams, Dareus, Lawson) have provided some of the biggest plays of the season. Also, Jerry Hughes is proving he was worth trading for, but the team doesn't have many hybrid types outside of that. Some of the players in this class may have the ability to play multiple roles in varied fronts, with a good amount of them having experience doing so. The defense obviously needs help, and I think LB is one of the weaker positions for the Bills.
TE: 6
Austin Seferian-Jenkins - TE - Washington - 6'6'' 276 - Jr. - 130 Rec - 1634 Yds - 17 TD Career - Possibly the best TE in this draft class, Seferian-Jenkins is an exceptional receiving TE with great size. He has some huge games against very good teams. Keith Price isn't a great QB, but S-J has made plays when given the chance. The Washington passing game hasn't been as successful this season and his numbers are down, though his blocking has improved quite a bit. Only 21 years old, he could just be scratching the surface. This pick making sense will depend on how he finishes the season, where Buffalo ends up in the draft, if he declares or not, if Buffalo chooses to move back like they did last season, and if they re-sign Chandler. (1st-2nd Round)
Jace Amaro - TE - Texas Tech - 6'5'' 260 Lbs - Jr. - 96 Rec - 1327 Yds - 9 TD Career - Reliable receiving TE with some highlight-reel catches under his belt. Has the size to become an effective blocker, though his obvious strength is catching the ball, as Tech regularly splits him out. Presents a physical mismatch to most opponents displaying the ability to stretch the field. Some people have him as a possible 1st rounder, but it is extremely rare for more than one TE to be a 1st round choice, though it isn't out of the question with this class. Amaro is absolutely on fire this season with 64 Rec - 861 Yds - 3 TD through 8 games. He has had less than 8 catches only once this season in the opener. (2nd-3rd Round)
Eric Ebron - TE - North Carolina - 6'4'' - 245 Lbs - Jr. - Doesn't have the ideal #1 TE size, but isn't far off, and some have him as a top 3 player at his position. Look around the league and see how just about every dominant TE has an imposing size/athleticism combo. If Ebron can attain the size the potential is there. Ebron is an exceptional athlete, makes highlight-reel catches, and is very hard to tackle. (1st-3rd Round)
Arthur Lynch - TE - Georgia - 6'5'' 254 Lbs - Sr. (R) - Balanced TE with good size. Not that explosive, but shows the ability to make the tough catch and he knows how to use his size. Gives his all when run blocking, and also has lined up as an H-back. Lynch has had good games against some of the better teams on the schedule and has the frame to bulk up. I wouldn't expect him to become a major receiving threat, but he could become a utility-type player. (3rd-4th Round)
C.J. Fiedorowicz - TE - Iowa - 6'7'' 265 Lbs - Sr. - Scott Chandler reincarnate? Virtually identical in size, he appears to have above average speed for his size. Also has a lot of blocking experience with solid ability in that department. He hasn't had a solid QB throwing him the ball yet, but has made some impressive catches in his career. Probably not a #1 TE, but might be worth developing. (3rd-4th Round)
Marcel Jensen - TE - Fresno State - 6'6'' 270 Lbs - Sr.(R) - Balanced TE with the size to be a solid blocker. Shows some receiving ability with good athletic ablility for his size. Developmental TE . (5th-6th Round)
- Hackett's scheme looks like it doesn't put the TE into consideration all that much as a receiving option, but Chandler's future as a Bill is uncertain, possibly making this position one of the top needs. I'm not saying they should jump the gun and take a TE in the 1st, but depending on where they end up in the 1st round or if they move back. Some might be players worth the pick if they end up picking later in the 1st, and this is only a mid-season opinion.
CB: 5
Kyle Fuller - CB - Virginia Tech - 6'0'' 189 Lbs - Sr. - Tough corner that has done just about everything for the Hokies. He can cover, blitz, help against the run, and play solid special teams. Very experienced against good competition. I'm still iffy on Buffalo going CB this early with Gilmore and McKelvin locked up long term, but Fuller could be a versatile addition to a shallow secondary. If they can't re-sign Byrd, Fuller would allow A. Williams to go back to FS full time and give the Bills a big boost to a somewhat weak spot in the D. (2nd-3rd Round)
Justin Gilbert - CB - Oklahoma State - 6'0'' 200 Lbs - Sr. - Solid size and a 3 year starter, Gilbert has success and experience against some very good passing teams. Exceptional return man. He could be a player that kicks McKelvin inside in nickel situations or replaces him on special teams, allowing #21 to stay fresh as the #2 CB. Like Fuller, he could be the missing piece in Buffalo's CB unit. One more solid corner could give them depth and versatility with Gilmore on the rise, McKelvin developing into a solid player, and Robey appearing to be another UDFA steal. (2nd-4th Round)
Bennett Jackson - CB - Notre Dame - 6'1'' 185 Lbs - Sr. - Solid size/athleticism combo that has shown he isn't afraid to come up hard in run support. Some experience at safety. Looks like he needs work like most mid-rounders. 2 year starter that saw a lot of reserve action in his first two years. (3rd-5th Round)
Jaylen Watkins - CB - Florida - 6'0'' 188 Lbs - Sr. - Watkins is a talented corner that happens to play behind two of the best DBs in college football (Purifoy and Roberson) similar to Ron Brooks' situation at LSU. Smooth athlete with a lot of experience. (4th-5th Round)
Merrill Noel - CB - Wake Forest - 5'10'' 180 Lbs - Jr.(R) - Cover corner needing development that may stay in college. Noel had an exceptional freshman campaign with 19 PD and 2 INT. After a down sophomore year, he has started 2013 strong. Might return for his senior season, but could be a mid-late pick in 2014 if he declares. (5th-7th Round)
- If Gilmore stays on track he should be a good #1 CB, though an injury has caused some delay. McKelvin has stepped up this season after flashing ability in previous seasons, and looks to be the long-term #2 after signing an extension until 2017. Robey has been a pleasant surprise as a UDFA, but probably should be the 4th CB option. The team doesn't have many proven CBs, so this could be one of the bigger needs when it comes to solidifying the defense. I think they could look at this position from the 2nd and on if they want to kick McKelvin inside, or even if they think a stud nickel is worth an early pick.
ILB: 5
Yawin Smallwood - ILB - UCONN - 6'3'' 244 Lbs - Jr.(R) - While UCONN has been pretty awful this season, they have produced some quality NFL talent over the past few seasons. Smallwood has been a steady force for the Huskies, and has played very well when facing tougher competition. He sheds blocks well and diagnoses plays pretty fast. Very durable and productive. (3rd Round)
Shayne Skov - ILB/OLB - Stanford - 6'3'' 244 Lbs - Sr.(R) - Plays with a nasty streak. Big hitter that also blitzes well and has some ability in pass coverage. Attacks blockers and sheds well, he has improved since coming back from a torn ACL a few seasons ago, appearing to be a top ILB in this class. Skov could be an instant upgrade over Moats and welcome compliment on the inside. (3rd Round)
Andrew Jackson - ILB - Western Kentucky - 6'1'' 257 Lbs - Jr.(R) - Big, violent, and a 3 year starter. Jackson plays with fire and could be a solid Mike backer in Pettine's 3-4 hybrid. 2 down LB, but a thumper next to Kiko in 3-4 looks seems to be what the team needs. (3rd-4th Round)
Max Bullough - ILB - Michigan State - 6'3'' 245 Lbs - Sr. - Experienced senior with good production, Bullough has the size and aggresive nature to play the strong side ILB spot in a 3-4. (4th-5th Round)
Caleb Lavey - ILB - Oklahoma State - 6'3'' 235 Lbs - Sr. - 3 year starter with solid production. Should be able to contribute on special teams with the potential to become a contributor on defense. (6th-UDFA)
- ILB is an interesting position with the current roster taken into consideration. Kiko has emerged as a playmaker, and a second ILB doesn't appear to be as crucial of a part in this multi-front D. With that being said, it does seem to be one of the positions the team lacks depth at, and a step up in talent never hurts. The run D clearly needs help, and linebacker looks to be one of the reasons. A true ILB will only expand versatility and strengthen traditional fronts, and some of these prospects could play 4-3 OLB as well.
DE/DT: 3
Ed Stinson - DE/DT - Alabama - 6'4'' 292 Lbs - Sr. - Strong run defender with the potential to improve his pass rush skills. 3 year starter for an exceptional Bama D. Could be a solid rotational DL as a 3-4 DE and 4-3 DT similar to what Carrington provided in recent years as his future with the team is uncertain. (2nd-3rd Round)
Henry Anderson - DE - Stanford - 6'6'' 282 Lbs - Sr. - 3-4 DE / 4-3 LE with a balanced skill set considering position projection. Plays strong and reacts quick, could kick inside on passing downs. Anderson was injured in the first game, but a strong return could place him in the mid rounds. (3rd-5th Round)
Deandre Coleman - DE/DT - Cal - 6'5'' 315 Lbs - Sr. - 3-4 DE / 4-3 DT that displays good power at the line. Doesn't give much ground, and holds down the strong side well on an otherwise shaky Cal run D. Coleman has made some impressive stops and has some success getting to the QB. (3rd-5th Round)
- Again, depending on how things unfold, this may be a pretty big need. Carrington has developed into a good utility lineman (even standing up at times) but suffered a season ending injury and is a free agent next season. Alan Branch has played pretty well in his absence and played well for Seattle, but he is also a free agent in 2014. Re-signing either could push this need down and would be ideal, but I think they might add a player or two in that mold in the mid rounds even if they do.
RB: 3
Charles Sims - RB - West Virginia - 6'0'' 213 Lbs - Sr.(R) - Balanced back with good receiving ability. Sims has been productive between his time at Houston (2009 2011 2012) and WVU (2013). Fluid runner that follows his blocks well that could be a solid complimentary NFL RB. (2nd-4th Round)
James Wilder Jr. - RB - Florida State - 6'2'' 226 Lbs - Jr. - Power Back with decent burst. Servicable receiver out of the backfield. Wilder Jr. Splits time with Devonta Freeman who is also an early-mid round prospect. (3rd-5th Round)
Glasco Martin - RB - Baylor - 6'1'' 220 Lbs - Sr.(R) - Power Back coming off injury, he has been a good compliment to one of the top RBs in this class Lache Seastrunk, and actually had more TDs on the ground in 2012 with 15 than Seastrunk did with 7. (5th-7th Round)
- RB isn't a huge concern, but Fred and C.J. have been banged up, and Fred isn't getting any younger. A long-term compliment to C.J. with some power could give the team a change-of-pace back to keep Spiller fresh. Choice has been a good #3, but competition never hurt. I'd like to see them add a bruiser for some insurance.
WR: 3
L'Damian Washington - WR - Missouri - 6'4'' 205 Lbs - Sr.(R) - Washington wasn't a big part of the Missouri offense until this season, but he took advantage of his opprotunities as a sophomore and junior averaging 17.9 yds per catch over those two seasons. Tall WR that could fill a role the Bills currently lack on offense. (5th-7th Round)
Matt Miller - WR - Boise State - 6'3'' 218 Lbs - Jr.(R) - Big, physical WR with decent production as a 3 year starter. If he declares, he could be a mid-late rounder at this point. Uses his size to fight for yards after contact. (5th-UDFA)
Alex Neutz - WR - Buffalo - 6'3'' 205 Lbs - Sr.(R) - Productive hometown kid (Grand Island, NY) that has had big games against some pretty good teams like Baylor, Georgia, and Pitt. He also gave a very good UCONN corner tandem (Gratz, Wreh-Wilson) trouble with 11 catches for 173 yds in two games. (7th-UDFA)
- Buffalo lacks height somewhat at the WR spot, though they have built what appears to be a talented group with loads of speed. I don't think they will invest much more in the position with an early pick, but a mid-late rounder seems like a reasonable move. Bringing in someone with the ability to go up and get it could add another dimension to the offense, especially in the red zone. If they feel that there is a WR in this class they can't pass up, I wouldn't be shocked if they took one early if they don't think Graham or Goodwin are starters. Someone like a Mike Evans, Sammy Watkins, or Marquise Lee. If they invest that much into the position, size isn't as big of an issue.
Obviously there are plenty of players that could be in Buffalo uniforms next season that weren't mentioned. Safety is another potential big need depending on the Byrd situation, but I'm going to leave that one alone for now. Now, to the point of the thread, discuss!
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