Could KC Concepcion Be the Answer for WR-Hungry Bills or Patriots?
As the NFL Draft buzz starts to build, one name that’s gaining traction among scouts and insiders is Texas A&M wide receiver Kevin “KC” Concepcion. ESPN’s Matt Miller floated the idea that both the Buffalo Bills and New England Patriots could be eyeing the dynamic junior during the College Football Playoff-and based on the tape, it’s easy to see why.
Concepcion isn’t just a receiver-he’s a weapon. At 5-foot-11 and 190 pounds, he’s the kind of playmaker who can hurt you in multiple ways.
This season alone, he notched 57 catches for 886 yards and nine touchdowns through the air. But that’s just part of the story.
He also added 63 rushing yards and a score on just eight carries, and was a serious threat in the return game, tallying 460 yards and two touchdowns on 23 punt returns.
That versatility has NFL teams paying close attention. Concepcion’s role has evolved significantly since transferring from NC State, where he initially carved out a niche as a gadget player. Now, he’s running a full route tree, showing polish as a receiver and proving he can be more than just a spark plug-he can be a reliable offensive engine.
If he declares for the 2026 NFL Draft, Concepcion would be a true junior entering the pro ranks. And if a team falls in love with his skill set early enough, he could join Mike Evans as the only Texas A&M receivers ever taken in the first round. That’s elite company, and while there’s still a long way to go in the pre-draft process, the buzz around Concepcion is very real.
Why Buffalo Makes Sense
The Bills haven’t dipped into the first round for a wide receiver since 2014, when they took Sammy Watkins at No. 4 overall. Since then, they’ve patched together their receiver room with mid-round picks, trades, and free agency, but the need for a true difference-maker remains.
Right now, Khalil Shakir is Buffalo’s most productive wideout, leading the team with 62 receptions and 650 yards. Keon Coleman, last year’s second-round pick, has shown flashes but has also spent time in the doghouse due to off-field issues, including being benched for tardiness to meetings. With only two receivers on the roster having more than 20 catches this season, the Bills are clearly in the market for help.
Concepcion’s ability to contribute immediately-whether in the slot, on jet sweeps, or in the return game-makes him an intriguing fit in Buffalo. He’s the kind of player who could take pressure off Josh Allen and open up the offense in ways the current group hasn’t been able to.
Why New England Could Be in Play
The Patriots are in a similar boat. Their top two receivers, Stefon Diggs and Mack Hollins, are both 32 years old. Kayshon Boutte has shown flashes of explosiveness, but he’s entering a contract year and hasn’t locked down a long-term role.
New England hasn’t spent a first-round pick on a receiver since 2019, when they selected N’Keal Harry at No. 32.
That pick didn’t pan out, but the need for a young, dynamic pass-catcher hasn’t gone away. In fact, it’s more pressing than ever.
Concepcion could bring the kind of juice this offense desperately lacks. His ability to create after the catch, stretch defenses horizontally, and contribute on special teams would make him a valuable asset for a Patriots team that’s trying to reboot its offensive identity.
Draft Stock on the Rise
In a recent mock draft, KC Concepcion was projected to go No. 32 overall to the Denver Broncos. That’s a strong indication of how highly he’s viewed by some evaluators. While that slot could certainly change as the pre-draft process unfolds, it’s clear that Concepcion is on the radar for receiver-needy teams picking late in the first round.
The Bills, who currently hold pick No. 24, were linked to Washington wideout Denzel Boston in that same mock. But depending on how the board shakes out, Concepcion could easily be in play-especially if Buffalo is looking for a player who can contribute in multiple phases of the game right away.
Bottom Line
KC Concepcion is the kind of player who forces teams to take notice. He’s not just productive-he’s dynamic.
Whether it’s as a receiver, runner, or returner, he finds ways to impact the game. And for teams like Buffalo and New England, who are both in desperate need of young talent at wideout, Concepcion could be more than just a good fit-he could be the spark that ignites a stagnant offense.
Keep an eye on him as the College Football Playoff unfolds. If he continues to shine on the big stage, don’t be surprised if his name climbs even higher up draft boards.