Buffalo Bills Mock Draft: A trade up for the Odell Beckham backup plan

Buffalo Bills, 2023 NFL Draft (Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images)
Buffalo Bills, 2023 NFL Draft (Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images) /
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Buffalo Bills, Anthony Johnson Jr.
Buffalo Bills, Anthony Johnson Jr. (Photo by Brian Bahr/Getty Images) /

player. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. S. Iowa State. 5. Anthony Johnson Jr.. 837

In the fifth round, general manager Brandon Beane does his best to go back to six picks from his earlier five, after trading up in the first round. He executes a trade with the New York Giants, here, moving back in the fifth round while also netting a sixth rounder.

At no. 160, the Bills go with Iowa State safety Anthony Johnson Jr.

There was a time, this offseason, that some thought the Bills would lose star safety Jordan Poyer to another team. Fortunately, Buffalo was able to keep him around for two more seasons. However, the veteran is set to turn 32 later this month, and the Bills should work on planning ahead here.

As a former cornerback, Johnson has some coverage skills. However, his size makes it easier for him to play closer to the line of scrimmage, over the slot and also help out against the run. He plays physically and is athletic for the position.

At 6-feet, Johnson has a good frame for the position. It’s a frame that he uses well, running downhill to attack plays as they’re developing. Again, he’s a willing run defender and works hard to knock tight ends off their routes when playing closer to the line.