What does Nick McCloud need to do to make the Buffalo Bills 53-man roster?
The Buffalo Bills have had success finding talent at cornerback in the undrafted free agent classes. In 2018, it was Levi Wallace who has started a majority of games opposite Tre’Davious White and then in 2019 the Bills signed Cam Lewis, who has a chance to be the primary backup to Taron Johnson at nickel.
This season, Nick McCloud is hoping he is the player that can continue that trend after the Bills signed him as an undrafted free agent after the 2021 NFL Draft. While it will be an uphill climb, McCloud is a player that could certainly earn a spot this season on the Bills 53-man roster.
Profile
Position: Cornerback
Age: 23
Height: 6’0″
Weight: 193 pounds
Years of Experience: R
College Stats
Nick McCloud played four seasons at North Carolina State and then transferred to play one final season with Notre Dame. He would finish college with 138 total tackles, four interceptions, 28 passes defended, and three fumble recoveries.
Expectations for the 2021 season with the Buffalo Bills
The cornerback position is one of the positions the Bills have the most uncertainty entering training camp. The only spots on the depth chart that is secure are Tre’Davious White on the outside and Taron Johnson as the nickel.
The starting job opposite Tre’Davious White is likely going to come down to Levi Wallace and Dane Jackson. However, the remaining bench spots are certainly up for grabs and Nick McCloud will be in a group that consists of Olaijah Griffin, Cam Lewis, Siran Neal, and Rachad Griffin.
If Nick McCloud wants to make the 53-man roster, he will not only need to play well during the preseason on defense but show he can contribute in other areas. One of the best ways a player can increase their chances to earn a roster spot is to play well on special teams and if McCloud can prove he is a valuable part of that team, he may have a chance to earn a roster spot.