The Buffalo Bills have stirred up quite the buzz with their recent trade for DJ Moore, sparking discussions about potentially trading back in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft. The move has left the Bills with just two picks in the top 100, as the 60th overall pick now belongs to the Chicago Bears.
In a recent mock draft by ESPN’s Field Yates, the Bills are predicted to shuffle their draft position to gain more capital. The proposed scenario has the Arizona Cardinals moving up to snag Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson, while the Bills slide back to the 34th overall pick. With this move, Yates suggests the Bills could select Georgia linebacker CJ Allen, a strategic choice to bolster their roster.
Though the mock draft doesn’t specify trade terms, the Bills could potentially gain the 65th overall pick, a valuable asset for a team in need of young, affordable talent. The linebacker position, in particular, could use some fresh faces, as veterans Matt Milano and Shaq Thompson remain unsigned.
CJ Allen stands out as a leader from Kirby Smart’s renowned Georgia defense. Known for his quick decision-making and high football IQ, Allen is a player who instinctively finds the ball. While he didn’t participate in athletic testing at the NFL Scouting Combine or Georgia’s Pro Day, his lateral movement and muscular build suggest he has the athleticism needed for a MIKE linebacker.
The Bills have already strengthened their interior offensive line with the recent signings of Lloyd Cushenberry III and Austin Corbett. Now, it seems their draft strategy will focus on enhancing the front seven, a crucial area for new defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard.
Allen’s high character and football intelligence make him an attractive prospect who could make an immediate impact. With the addition of C.J.
Gardner-Johnson to the secondary, the Bills are clearly aiming to add some grit to their defense. Bringing in a player like Allen could be just what they need to elevate their defensive game.