For many seasons, the Bills have been trying to find their franchise edge rusher. Whether it’s through free agency or the NFL Draft, they have struggled to find consistency at that position. In terms of the draft, they have drafted notable edge rushers like Greg Rousseau, A.J. Epenesa, Javon Solomon, and Landon Jackson. Rousseau has been the most consistent player but he’s more of a run-stopper rather than edge rusher.
Through free agency, Brandon Beane has taken swings on players like Von Miller, Joey Bosa, and now with Bradley Chubb. While there has been sparks here and there, Buffalo just can’t seem to find a franchise edge rusher that can take over a game in critical moments.
With the Bills having the 26th overall pick in this year’s draft, it is very possible that they could spend that pick on an edge rusher who can become a game-wrecker for the future. There is one prospect that isn’t getting a ton of notice that should be, and that is Malachi Lawrence out of Central Florida.
NFL mock draft has Bills acquiring Malachi Lawrence (and fans should remember his name)
Pete Prisco from CBS Sports recently put together a mock draft that has the Bills drafting Lawrence in the first round, and Prisco’s reasoning is strong.
"They [Buffalo] need a young edge player to come in and supplement what they have there. Bradley Chubb isn't a kid, and they are seemingly in never-ending pursuit of speed off the edge." said Prisco.
The Bills did just draft Landon Jackson last year in the third round and if the Bills were to draft another edge rusher early on, it could certainly put Jackson’s future in Buffalo in doubt during training camp.
When it comes to Lawrence, he has great size and ideal speed coming off the edge. With Jim Leonhard looking to implement a defense that is about bringing consistent pressure, Lawrence would be an ideal fit especially late in the first round.
His stats don’t jump off the chart, but the Bills could very well use someone like him because they will have to watch other top edge rusher prospects go off the board early on. The Bills don’t have the capability to trade up for a top prospect because they are already down a second round pick. However, getting someone like Lawrence who would be a solid addition.