Bills Gear Up for NFL Draft After Combine Assessment

ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. — With NFL free agency just around the corner, the Buffalo Bills are analyzing their roster moves following the conclusion of the NFL Combine. As teams prepare for free agency and the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft, the Bills are shaping their draft strategies based on the latest evaluations of top prospects.

The Bills currently hold picks Nos. 30, 56, 62, 108, 131, 171, 175, 178, 205, and 207, including several compensatory picks. As draft expert Dane Brugler outlined in his recent mock drafts, the focus is on enhancing areas of need, particularly the edge rusher and wide receiver positions.

In Brugler’s latest mock, two standout players, edge rusher James Pearce and Missouri wide receiver Luther Burden III, remain available for selection. Although both players could strengthen the Bills, the edge rusher position takes priority due to Greg Rousseau‘s impending free agency in 2026.

Pearce, standing 6-foot-5 and weighing 245 pounds, boasts a unique combination of speed and explosiveness, achieving a 97th percentile 10-yard split and 92nd percentile broad jump at the Combine. Over three seasons at Tennessee, Pearce accumulated 19.5 sacks, with an impressive pressure rate of 21.2% from 532 pass-rushing snaps.

“The Bills have been targeting a high-impact edge rusher, and Pearce’s metrics suggest he could fill that role effectively,” said Brugler. “His ability to pressure quarterbacks consistently is exactly what the team needs. The history of choosing edge rushers has not delivered the expected production, which could explain their interest in a different type of pass rusher.”

With the talent pool for wide receivers deep, the Bills are expected to secure a veteran option ahead of the draft, positioning Pearce as an ideal pick given the youth already present in the receiving corps.

Defensive back prospect Darion Revel remains on the Bills’ radar, following his recovery from an ACL injury. Revel has the potential to be a starter opposite corner Christian Benford by 2026, depending on his rehabilitation progress. His size and versatile coverage capability appeal to the Bills’ defensive strategy.

As for the second-round pick, defensive tackle Phillips is projected to enable the Bills to address their run-stopping needs effectively. He can potentially develop pass-rushing skills alongside the recently extended DaQuan Jones. “Selecting Phillips early aligns with the Bills’ strategy to build a reliable defensive line,” said Brugler.

With moves made to bolster the team’s future and provide flexibility, the Bills are set to examine trade possibilities. They have previously shown willingness to acquire additional picks to address their priorities, possibly looking to fill gaps in their receiving and running back units.

The need for a reliable backup middle linebacker could see the team trading up to secure a player like Simon, who could provide immediate special teams contributions while offering depth behind Terrel Bernard.

The team has also released veteran punter Sam Martin, indicating a potential focus on securing a new punter in this draft. With a history of seeking cost-effective options, the Bills could use one of their mid-round picks to target Crawshaw, an Australian punter who has gained attention for his performance in college.

As the Bills navigate the upcoming days until the free agency period, all eyes will be on potential signings that could influence their draft strategy on April 27.