Without drafting an edge rusher with either of my first two picks, this position becomes an instant priority in my mock draft. After recently signing Efe Obada, I no longer think the Buffalo Bills have to target a powerful edge rusher. With A.J. Epenesa likely to put on some weight for the 2021 season, the retainment of Mario Addison, and the signing of Obada, the edges of the Buffalo Bills defensive line should be powerful in 2021.
Jumping off this idea, I think the Buffalo Bills should target a bendier and leaner edge rusher in this draft. Similar to the point I made with Lotulelei, Jerry Hughes isn’t getting any younger and there’s no guarantee he re-signs with the Bills after this season. This is why I decided to select Quincy Roche with the Bills 3rd round pick in this mock draft.
At 6’3″ and 245 pounds, Roche is one of the bendier edge rushers in this draft class with consistent evidence of making opposing offensive tackle look silly. Additionally, Roche really performed well during his week at the Reese’s Senior Bowl. Roche might not be a natural speed rusher, but he has a bag full of moves when it comes to pass rushing. He has a plan on each snap for how he’s going to attack his matchup and that can be a rare find sometimes at the edge position.
The performance Roche had during his week at the Senior Bowl could really bolster his draft stock, but there are still some concerns. For instance, Roche doesn’t fire off the snap how you would think considering he’s on the leaner side. So the worry with him at the next level is if he will be bullied by NFL offensive tackles. However, he could be a valuable addition to the edge rusher position for the Buffalo Bills in the 3rd round.