Top Defensive Draft Prospects Who Could Help the Buffalo Bills Right Away in 2025
With the 2025 NFL Draft just around the corner and Buffalo’s defense needing the most attention, here are three defensive prospects who could make an immediate impact.
3. Darien Porter, Cornerback, Iowa State
A former wide receiver turned cornerback, Darien Porter is an exciting prospect with rare physical tools — 6’3”, 195 lbs, 33 1/8” arms, and a 4.30-second 40-yard dash. His athletic testing was off the charts, with a near-perfect Relative Athletic Score (RAS) of 9.99. He thrives in zone schemes, particularly Cover 3 and quarters, making him a natural fit in Sean McDermott and Bobby Babich’s defense.
Porter has standout special-teams experience too, with nearly 1,000 snaps and five blocked kicks. Though he’s an older prospect (24) with limited starting experience, his speed and versatility make him a strong developmental option who could contribute right away on special teams while learning behind veterans like Tre’Davious White and Dane Jackson.
2. Xavier Watts, Safety, Notre Dame
Watts offers a high-ceiling replacement for Taylor Rapp and a strong long-term partner for Cole Bishop. At 6’0”, 205 lbs, he’s a ballhawk with elite instincts, winning the Thorpe Award in 2023 after leading the nation in interceptions. Over the last two seasons, he has racked up 12 picks and shown he can play multiple roles — in the box, deep safety, and in the slot.
While he’s still refining his man coverage skills, his range and anticipation are upgrades over Rapp. Watts also adds value on special teams, making him a well-rounded Day 2 target who can grow into a key piece of the secondary.
1. Tyleik Williams, Defensive Tackle, Ohio State
Williams might be the most NFL-ready of the group. A massive presence at 6’3” and 327 lbs, he’s a proven run-stopper who earned back-to-back All-Big Ten honors. His 2024 stats include 46 tackles, 8 for loss, and 2.5 sacks. He played a key role in Ohio State’s top-ranked run defense and possesses explosive athleticism (4.68-second 40-yard dash) for his size.
His ability to take on double teams and anchor against the run would free up linebackers and help Buffalo’s other pass rushers. As DaQuan Jones nears the end of his tenure, Williams would be an ideal long-term replacement, capable of contributing immediately and growing into a key starter alongside Ed Oliver.
Final Thoughts
Defensive tackle is the position most likely to yield immediate playing time, especially given the current depth chart. Other spots — like cornerback, safety, edge, and linebacker — will be tougher for rookies to break into due to the coaching staff’s preference for veteran reliability.
Still, Buffalo needs more than just depth from this class — they need playmakers. Trading up for a prospect they believe in could be the right move, especially if it means getting someone who can make a real difference come playoff time.
