The 2021 NFL Draft is less than three months away and there is certainly plenty that can change over that time in terms of roster needs with what takes place in free agency. However, for the Buffalo Bills most of the work should be focused on the defensive side of the ball.
The offense this past year became one of the best passing offenses in the league while the defense took a step backward, particularly early on. While it is unlikely, let’s take a look at what a draft class, with the help of The Draft Network’s Mock Draft Machine, could look like for the Buffalo Bills if they only selected defensive players.
First Round: Christian Barmore, IDL (Alabama)
One of the biggest weaknesses of this defense last year was against the run. The Buffalo Bills definitely missed the presence of Star Lotulelei, who would be an anchor and could engage with multiple blockers at one time.
While Lotulelei is set to return this year after missing last season due to the pandemic, he is not necessarily a long term solution to the position. That is why a player like Christian Barmore could make sense for the Bills.
However, Barmore isn’t a true replacement for Lotulelei as he is more like a three-technique with an excellent ability to pressure the quarterback and play on the other side of the line. One of the things the Buffalo Bills should try to improve this offseason is their pass rush so having a bigger player like Barmore to pair alongside Ed Oliver could give them a great pass rush while not necessarily giving up too much against the run.