As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, the Buffalo Bills find themselves at a crossroads with the No. 26 overall pick. The decision they make could shape their roster for years to come.
General Manager Brandon Beane faces the intriguing possibility of trading out of the first round. While this draft class may not be the most heralded, there’s promising depth at wide receiver, linebacker, and edge - all areas of need for Buffalo.
Having already traded their second-round pick for D.J. Moore, the Bills could benefit from acquiring additional picks to bolster their defense and add a reliable target at receiver.
Buffalo Bills Strategize for 2026 NFL Draft
In a recent mock draft by ESPN’s Field Yates, the Bills were projected to trade with the Arizona Cardinals, moving out of the first round. Let’s explore what this strategy could mean for Buffalo.
Trade Strategy:
Round 2, Pick 34: CJ Allen, Linebacker, Georgia
Initially hesitant to pick CJ Allen in the second round, the depth at wide receiver proved too thin to ignore. While edge rusher is a priority, the immediate need for a linebacker to pair with Terrel Bernard is more pressing.
Allen, though a fringe first-round talent, offers a strong complement to Bernard with his football IQ and pedigree from Kirby Smart’s system at Georgia. The trade-off of losing a fifth-year option on his contract is mitigated by his potential to excel in Buffalo’s defense.
Round 3, Pick 65: Romello Height, Edge, Texas Tech
Romello Height, despite being labeled undersized at 6-foot-3, 239 pounds, brings a dynamic presence to the Bills' pass rush. His impressive 10 sacks in 2025 highlight his ability to disrupt offenses.
New defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard has a knack for maximizing the potential of players like Height. This pick isn’t about immediate impact but about developing a player with a unique skill set to enhance the Bills' defensive scheme.
Round 3, Pick 91: Deion Burks, Wide Receiver, Oklahoma
Deion Burks remains a compelling choice for Buffalo. Despite concerns over his injury history, his playmaking ability and 4.3-speed make him an intriguing prospect.
Burks’ knack for finding the end zone, evidenced by 14 touchdowns over three seasons, makes him a potential asset for the Bills. While he might not make waves immediately, learning alongside talents like D.J. Moore could unlock his full potential.
Round 4, Pick 126: Tim Keenan III, Defensive Tackle, Alabama
Tim Keenan III embodies the classic high-IQ player who compensates for physical limitations with savvy play. Standing at 6-foot-1, Keenan’s stout presence was pivotal for Alabama’s defense.
While not a pass-rushing force, Keenan’s ability to anchor the run defense is crucial for a Bills unit that struggled against the run last season. His addition allows flexibility for other defensive players like Deone Walker.
Round 5, Pick 165: TJ Hall, Cornerback, Iowa
Addressing depth concerns at cornerback, the Bills look to Iowa’s TJ Hall. Known for producing overachieving defensive backs, Hall’s physical style suits Buffalo’s needs.
Though his 4.59 40-yard dash raises questions about speed, his aggression and strength against the run make him a versatile option, potentially offering depth at nickelback.
Round 5, Pick 168: Cade Klubnik, Quarterback, Clemson
While doubling up on wide receiver or linebacker might be tempting, the Bills wisely consider quarterback depth. Behind Josh Allen, the need for a developmental prospect is clear.
Cade Klubnik, once a first-round hopeful, saw his stock drop after a challenging final season. However, his dual-threat ability and strong arm make him an intriguing project. Learning behind Josh Allen could help Klubnik grow into the quarterback many anticipated.
In summary, the Bills are poised to make strategic moves that could fortify their roster. With a blend of immediate needs and developmental prospects, Buffalo is setting the stage for sustained success.