Buffalo Bills fans, you're probably well aware that the team doesn't have a second-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. That's because the Bills traded the 60th pick to the Chicago Bears in a deal that brought wide receiver DJ Moore to Buffalo. The reaction among Bills Mafia has been mixed, but let's take a deeper dive into General Manager Brandon Beane's history with second-round picks and see how they've fared.
Drafting is an art, not a science, and Beane's track record reflects that reality. While he didn't make a second-round selection in 2018, opting instead to trade up for Josh Allen, his other picks offer a fascinating look at the Bills' draft strategy.
Let's break down Beane's second-round selections:
8. DE Boogie Basham (Pick 61, 2021)
The decision to pick Boogie Basham raised eyebrows, especially after drafting Gregory Rousseau the day before. Basham's time in Buffalo was brief, playing only 23 games over two seasons before being traded to the Giants.
**7. DT T.J.
Sanders (Pick 41, 2025)** T.J.
Sanders' rookie season was hampered by injuries, making it too soon to judge his impact. Beane traded up to secure Sanders, indicating high expectations for the South Carolina standout.
6. OT Cody Ford (Pick 38, 2019)
Cody Ford came in as a promising right tackle but eventually transitioned to guard. After starting 29 games, Ford was traded to the Cardinals, highlighting the challenges of draft projections.
5. WR Keon Coleman (Pick 33, 2024)
Keon Coleman's tenure has been a rollercoaster, with ups and downs both on and off the field. Trade rumors swirl around Coleman, making his future in Buffalo uncertain.
**4. DE A.J.
Epenesa (Pick 57, 2020)** A.J.
Epenesa recently moved to the Browns on a prove-it deal. While solid, his performance never quite matched his draft expectations, despite contributing 24 sacks over six seasons.
3. S Cole Bishop (Pick 60, 2024)
Cole Bishop found his stride in 2025, becoming a defensive cornerstone with impressive stats. His development has been a bright spot for the Bills' defense.
2. RG O’Cyrus Torrence (Pick 59, 2023)
O’Cyrus Torrence has been a rock on the offensive line, starting 50 of 51 games. As he approaches a contract extension, Torrence's consistency at right guard is undeniable.
1. RB James Cook III (Pick 63, 2022)
James Cook led the league in rushing last season and has been a Pro Bowl staple. His explosive play makes him Beane’s standout second-round success.
Beane's draft strategy has yielded more hits than misses, with Cook and Bishop emerging as key contributors. While some picks like Basham and Ford didn't pan out as hoped, others like Torrence and Cook have solidified their roles in Buffalo's future.
The decision to trade up for Josh Allen remains a pivotal moment, overshadowing the second-round picks that followed. But what do you think? Share your thoughts and rankings of Brandon Beane’s second-round picks below.