Free agency has mostly wrapped up, with teams securing the top available players. The Buffalo Bills made a bigger splash than expected, with General Manager Brandon Beane adding three defensive linemen—Joey Bosa, Michael Hoecht, and Larry Ogunjobi—and spending significantly on new wide receiver Joshua Palmer.
With the NFL Draft just weeks away, we reached out to “SHOUT!” Insiders for their thoughts on the biggest questions surrounding the Bills.
1. Are you expecting a major trade soon? If so, which players are realistic targets?
Matt: A trade before or during the draft is definitely possible. While the Bills filled some gaps in free agency, there are still needs for a disruptive defensive player and a speedy outside receiver. Beane could target a player like Texas receiver Matthew Golden, Michigan defensive tackle Kenneth Grant, or Marshall edge rusher Mike Green, though moving up the draft board might be necessary for those picks.
Trading for an established star is another option, but would require a hefty contract. Cincinnati’s Trey Hendrickson would be an ideal addition to Buffalo’s defensive line, allowing the Bills to rotate him, Bosa, and Greg Rousseau effectively, especially in the playoffs. However, the Bengals may be working on an extension for Hendrickson. If not, Beane might look to the offensive side, though it’s unlikely the Jets would trade receiver Garrett Wilson to a divisional rival. Other possible trade targets include New Orleans’ Chris Olave (despite his concussion history) and Minnesota’s Jordan Addison, who could become available as his contract nears extension.
2. If the Bills move up in the draft, what would have a bigger impact: a lockdown corner or a game-changing WR?
Matt: I’m still disappointed the Bills didn’t trade up for Brian Thomas Jr. last year. This year, Golden is a similar player, but landing him would likely require a major trade up. There’s also the cornerback option, though there are questions about the fit. Most of the top cornerbacks in this draft are criticized for their tackling, which might make Beane hesitant to trade up for one.
Golden’s speed (4.29-second 40-yard dash) and ability to perform in big moments would be exciting for the Bills. If the Bills trade up, I think they’d target a pass rusher, either on the edge or inside, with players like Grant or Donovan Ezeiruaku being solid options.
3. Will Stefon Diggs be booed more than Jack Eichel when returning to Buffalo?
Matt: It’s an interesting question. Initially, I thought Diggs would receive heavy boos, especially after his controversial departure and subsequent move to the Patriots. However, former Bills quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick made a compelling point—Diggs was crucial in Josh Allen’s development, helping elevate his game. I think there will be some boos, but Diggs’ contributions to the team, particularly in helping Allen’s growth, will lead to many positive memories as well. It’s also worth considering whether Diggs will even be playing in that game, as he is recovering from a torn ACL.
4. If you’re the Bills GM at pick #30 and you have an elite DT and WR on the board, which do you choose?
Matt: If the Bills are at pick #30 and both an elite defensive tackle and wide receiver are available, it would be a tough decision. The receiver class this year is peculiar, with no clear-cut top 10 player. Historically, second and third-round wide receivers have been more successful than pass rushers in this range. If someone like Grant or Oregon’s Derrick Harmon is still available, it might be the right time to address the defensive line. However, if a top edge rusher falls, Beane should consider trading up to secure a highly-rated player.
In this draft, defensive talent may have more value than a receiver, especially given the Bills’ current roster.
