The Buffalo Bills will be busy this offseason. Though fans would like them to chase a high-profile free agent or two, the draft is likely the best option for stocking up on young talent that can make an impact sooner rather than later.
The Bills are rumored to be looking heavily into receiver, edge rusher, safety, and linebacker in the coming draft. One of the most intriguing prospects is R Mason Thomas of Oklahoma, an explosive if raw pass rusher who could present an ideal fit for new defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard.
Oklahoma EDGE R Mason Thomas 2026 NFL Draft Scouting Report
Height: 6’2”
Weight: 240 lbs
Official 40-yard dash: 4.67
Recruiting: Four-star prospect, No. 208 nationally, No. 22 EDGE in the class of 2022
College Production: 40 total tackles, 25.5 tackles for loss, 17 sacks, 4 forced fumbles, 2 defensive touchdowns in 42 career games
Strengths
- Explosive off the snap, making it difficult for tackles to react properly.
- Has deceptive power and catches blockers off guard with violent technique.
- Great bend, allowing him to get around the edge against quicker tackles.
- Great motor, fantastic closing speed especially from the backside.
- Gets better later in games, racking up six of his nine sacks in 2024 late while helping his team protect a lead.
Thomas has the kind of explosive first step that can be disruptive at the NFL level. Combined with great bend, a relentless motor, and a nasty competitive streak, he has all the tools needed to become a force off the edge, even in a specialized role.
Weaknesses
- A bit smaller than average, with shorter arm length, which can see him get caught up by bigger blockers.
- Durability is a concern; had high-angle sprains early in his career, plus soft-tissue concerns later on.
- Taller tackles can divert him further outside the pocket, riding him out of the play.
His size and hand movement on pass rushes are concerns, but the latter can be worked with. He also needs to dispel any notion of durability concerns by being on the field. Thomas can add bulk to his frame, but he isn’t going to negate the size issue by simply getting bigger.
R Mason Thomas NFL Player Comparison: Tuli Tuipulotu
On the high-end, Thomas has been compared to other diminutive rushers like Elvis Dumervil and Nik Bonitto. His size is a knock against him, but his physicality, motor and athleticism make him a constant threat to get to the quarterback in much the same way that those players did.
R Mason Thomas’ Fit with the Buffalo Bills
Thomas is the kind of explosive pass-rushing threat that the Bills have been lacking for years. Switching to a 3-4 base defense under Leonhard, he looks like a natural fit that can play situationally early while refining the rest of his game and adding NFL strength. He also allows Leonhard to be more creative with other, more versatile pieces.
R Mason Thomas NFL Draft Grade: Late Round 1-Early Round 2
The Bills can opt to address other areas of concern, but edge rusher is perhaps the most pressing. Thomas has been on the rise in recent weeks and could be there when the Bills pick 26th overall. It wouldn’t be shocking to see him slide into the second round, but he likely won’t be there when the Bills pick again at No. 60 overall.