2025 NFL Draft: Buffalo Bills Breakdown
After narrowly missing a Super Bowl appearance due to defensive struggles, the Buffalo Bills made a concerted effort to improve their defense through the 2025 NFL Draft. General Manager Brandon Beane focused on this area, selecting six defensive players, including three within the top 55 prospects. This strategic approach earned the team strong marks in post-draft evaluations.
Buffalo Bills 2025 Draft Class:
- Round 1 (30): CB Maxwell Hairston, Kentucky
- Round 2 (41): DI T.J. Sanders, South Carolina
- Round 3 (72): ED Landon Jackson, Arkansas
- Round 4 (109): DI Deone Walker, Kentucky
- Round 5 (170): S Jordan Hancock, Ohio State
- Round 5 (173): TE Jackson Hawes, Georgia Tech
- Round 6 (177): CB Dorian Strong, Virginia Tech
- Round 6 (206): T Chase Lundt, Connecticut
- Round 7 (240): WR Kaden Prather, Maryland
Key Picks and Analysis:
Maxwell Hairston (Round 1, CB):
Hairston brings strong tackling skills and ideal size for the position. Though his 2024 season was cut short due to injury, he had shown promise with an 81.8 PFF grade the previous year. He fits well in a zone-heavy scheme and should complement Christian Benford in the secondary.
T.J. Sanders (Round 2, DI):
An explosive interior lineman with gap-penetration ability, Sanders posted a career-best 81.9 PFF pass-rushing grade and recorded 33 pressures in 2024. His quickness and growth trajectory make him a strong addition to the defensive front.
Landon Jackson (Round 3, ED):
Known for his size and sound technique, Jackson stands out for his run defense (88.8 grade), despite a lower pass-rush win rate in college. His length and mobility suggest potential as a reliable starting edge defender.
Position Battle to Watch:
Safety: Jordan Hancock vs. Cam Lewis
Buffalo’s secondary ranked near the bottom in coverage last season, prompting multiple reinforcements. Hancock, a key figure in Ohio State’s title run, excels in the slot and box with a 75.3 PFF grade in those alignments. He’ll compete with Cam Lewis, whose inconsistency last season puts his role at risk.
Overall Draft Grade: A-
The Bills targeted key defensive needs with athletic, versatile players who could contribute early, especially in the secondary and defensive line.
