As the NFL Draft approaches, the Buffalo Bills find themselves in an interesting position. After a busy free agency period that saw the addition of key players like defensive line trio Joey Bosa, Michael Hoecht, and Larry Ogunjobi, as well as outside receiver Joshua Palmer, the team has filled several gaps. But with the NFL Draft just around the corner, the question on the minds of fans and analysts alike is: Should the Bills make a blockbuster trade before or during the draft?
This question was addressed by “SHOUT!” insiders, who weighed in on what the Bills’ next move should be. From potential trades for established playmakers to targeting specific positions in the draft, here’s a look at the biggest questions surrounding Buffalo’s plans for the 2023 season.
Could a Big Trade Shake Things Up for the Bills?
One of the primary questions surrounding the Bills heading into the draft is whether a significant trade is on the horizon. General manager Brandon Beane has done well in free agency, but there are still areas of need that could be addressed with a trade. Specifically, the Bills are looking for a defensive game-wrecker and a speedy outside receiver to complement their already potent roster.
As for trade possibilities, a player like Cincinnati edge rusher Trey Hendrickson could be a game-changing addition to the defensive line. Hendrickson, who posted 17.5 sacks last season, would be a perfect fit for Buffalo’s defensive scheme, and adding him would allow the Bills to unleash their other defensive stars, such as Joey Bosa and Greg Rousseau, in the playoffs. However, with the Bengals reportedly trying to secure a contract extension for Hendrickson, it remains uncertain whether the Bills can lure him away.
On the offensive side of the ball, wide receiver Garrett Wilson from the New York Jets has been mentioned as a potential target. Although trading within the AFC East is always a challenge, Wilson’s addition could elevate the Bills’ offense, giving quarterback Josh Allen a dynamic playmaker on the outside. Additionally, receivers like Chris Olave from the New Orleans Saints or Minnesota’s Jordan Addison could be intriguing targets. Addison, in particular, has shown flashes of greatness when All-Pro receiver Justin Jefferson was absent, and his vertical threat could open up the Bills’ offense in new ways.
What Would Have a Bigger Impact: Lockdown Corner or Game-Changing WR?
Another key question is whether the Bills should focus on a cornerback or a wide receiver in the draft. With the No. 30 pick looming, fans and insiders have debated which position would make the bigger impact for Buffalo’s Super Bowl aspirations.
A lockdown cornerback would solidify the secondary, and with several top-tier cornerbacks expected to be taken before the Bills pick, it’s a position of need. However, Matt, one of the insiders, pointed out that most of the top cornerbacks come with concerns, especially regarding their tackling abilities. This could be a turn-off for Beane, making a trade up for a cornerback less likely unless the right player falls to them.
On the other hand, the need for a top-tier wide receiver is undeniable. The Bills are looking for a true WR1 to pair with Gabe Davis and help Josh Allen. One intriguing prospect is Matthew Golden, a wide receiver from Texas, who ran a 4.29 40-yard dash at the combine and is projected to go in the early rounds. His game has been compared to that of Chris Olave, and Golden’s ability to make big plays in critical moments could be exactly what the Bills need. However, acquiring him may require trading up in the draft, which Beane may be willing to do to secure a potential game-changer.
Should the Bills Focus on a Defensive Tackle or Wide Receiver at Pick 30?
With the draft drawing nearer, the question of whether to go for a defensive tackle or a wide receiver with the No. 30 pick is another dilemma facing the Bills. If an elite defensive tackle is available, it could be the missing piece to bolster the defensive line, giving the Bills much-needed strength in the middle. Players like Michigan’s Kenneth Grant or Oregon’s Derrick Harmon are expected to be available and could make a major impact right away.
On the other hand, the wide receiver class is somewhat unpredictable this year. There isn’t a surefire top-10 player, making the 30th pick a potentially sweet spot for a WR that could open up the field for Allen and his supporting cast. While the Bills have had success drafting wide receivers in later rounds in recent years, trading up for a receiver like Golden, who could fill the role of a vertical threat, might be worth the investment.
In the end, the decision will come down to who is available when the Bills make their pick. If an elite defensive tackle is on the board, that could provide immediate help to the defensive front. But if the Bills feel that a game-changing wide receiver is worth the trade-up, they might just pull the trigger.
What’s Next for Stefon Diggs and the Bills?
Finally, a more personal question for Bills fans revolves around Stefon Diggs. Following the infamous “Are you sure?” tweet and his departure from Minnesota, there’s speculation about whether Diggs will be booed upon his return to Buffalo—if he’s healthy enough to play after recovering from a torn ACL. Although Diggs’ contributions have been invaluable to the team, there’s still some lingering tension surrounding his exit from the Vikings, especially after he joined their division rival, the New England Patriots.
However, former Bills quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick weighed in, suggesting that while there might be a few boos, the good memories and Diggs’ pivotal role in unlocking Josh Allen’s potential should result in a warm reception. Regardless of the fan reaction, Diggs’ return to Buffalo promises to be one of the most intriguing storylines of the upcoming season.