Bills Could Secure Future at Linebacker with 2025 First-Round Pick
The Buffalo Bills have strengthened their offense by extending star receiver Khalil Shakir and maintaining a solid offensive line. The running back room remains unchanged, with Ty Johnson returning.
However, the defense faces another year of transition. Key departures include Rasul Douglas, Von Miller, and cornerback Kaiir Elam, who was traded to the Cowboys. Matt Milano’s future is also uncertain after he took a pay cut, making him a potential free agent by 2026.
Given Milano’s uncertain status, the Bills may target a young, talented linebacker in the 2025 NFL Draft. While top off-ball linebackers are rare, two prospects stand out:
Jihaad Campbell, Alabama
Campbell led Alabama’s 10th-ranked defense with elite athleticism, earning First-Team All-SEC honors in 2024. He recorded 119 tackles, 11.5 tackles for loss, and 5 sacks. A projected top-10 to top-15 pick, the Bills may need to trade up for him, though he could slide into the late teens.
Jalon Walker, Georgia
Walker is an energetic, versatile linebacker who can play off-ball or as an edge rusher. Despite being undersized, he excels in run defense and brings rare athleticism. He’s likely a late-first-round pick, making him a realistic option for the Bills at No. 30.
Buffalo must decide whether to invest in a high-upside prospect like Campbell or a developmental talent like Walker to solidify their linebacker corps for the future.
