The Buffalo Bills are heading into the NFL offseason with a full plate of challenges. With a tight salary cap and several key areas to address, GM Brandon Beane has a crucial draft ahead to keep the Bills in the Super Bowl conversation.
While many analysts expect the Bills to focus on wide receivers, there's also a pressing need on the defensive line. As the team shifts to a 3-4 base defense, one prospect stands out: Peter Woods, a first-round defensive line talent from Clemson.
Clemson DL Peter Woods: 2026 NFL Draft Scouting Report
- Height: 6’3”
- Weight: 315 lbs
- Expected 40-Yard Dash: 4.75-4.80
- Recruiting Rank: No. 36 nationally in 2023, No.
8 DL, No. 6 in Alabama
- College Stats: 84 tackles, 14.5 tackles for loss, 5 sacks, 2 forced fumbles in 35 games
Strengths
Woods brings elite first-step explosiveness, a nightmare for guards from the get-go. His ability to bend through gaps is exceptional, and his hand strikes are powerful enough to unsettle offensive linemen.
Despite his size, he covers a lot of ground, chasing down smaller players with ease. His swipe move is a consistent guard-beater, and his athleticism is off the charts.
Woods plays with a relentless motor, always pushing to the whistle, setting the tone for his teammates.
Areas for Improvement
However, Woods does have some areas to work on. His gap discipline can be inconsistent, as he sometimes gambles rather than sticking to his assignments.
While his physical traits are impressive, his production hasn't fully matched up. His tackling technique needs refining, and his pass-rushing arsenal could use some expansion to handle stronger blockers.
Woods is more of a disruptive force than a traditional anchor in the middle. He thrives when used creatively, rather than being a straightforward plug in the defense.
Player Comparison: Grady Jarrett
At 6’3”, Woods might not have the textbook size, but he brings power and disruption reminiscent of Grady Jarrett. At his peak, he could emulate Jeffrey Simmons of the Titans, with his high motor and explosive athleticism making him a challenge against both the pass and run.
Fit with the Buffalo Bills
Woods' size and quickness make him a great fit as a defensive end in Jim Leonhard’s 3-4 scheme. His explosive first step and strong hands are exactly what the Bills need to create chaos on the line.
However, he'll need to improve his ability to handle double teams, especially if the Bills lack a true space-eater at DT. Refining his gap discipline will be key to his development into a more complete player.
Draft Outlook: Mid-First Round
There's some debate about Woods' draft position. While some see him as a fringe top 10 pick, others predict he might slide to the late first round. If he lands at No. 26 for the Bills, it would be a steal, providing the disruptive presence Leonhard's defense needs.