JUST NOW: Buffalo Bills Receive Low Marks in Latest 2025 NFL Mock Draft
The Buffalo Bills have struggled to stop the run this season, which has become a glaring weakness for their defense. Despite their “next man up” mentality, run defense remains their Achilles’ heel, as the unit is allowing 119 rushing yards per game. Heading into the second half of the season, that statistic is a significant concern.
Even with a strong 9-2 record, the Bills need to address this issue both down the stretch and in the offseason. Ed Oliver hasn’t lived up to his performance from last year, and DaQuan Jones isn’t having the same impact as in previous seasons. Rookie DeWayne Carter was beginning to contribute but was sidelined with a wrist injury and has been on IR since Week 8.
With a bye week ahead, the Bills have an opportunity to make critical adjustments. Meanwhile, the focus is slowly shifting to NFL draft preparations. While the battle for the No. 1 pick unfolds, the Bills are likely to draft in the late 20s—or even the 30s if they make a deep playoff run.
General Manager Brandon Beane has a mixed track record with drafting, hitting on some picks while missing on others. Given the team’s tight financial situation due to significant contracts, Beane must capitalize on future draft picks as player salaries continue to rise.
Bills projected to draft position of desperate need in CBS Sports mock draft
CBS Sports Analyst Josh Edwards developed a mock draft following Daniel Jones’ release from the New York Giants. Edwards projects that the Bills will select Alabama defensive tackle LT Overton with the 30th pick.
“Buffalo made a significant investment in pass rushers by drafting Greg Rousseau, Boogie Basham, and A.J. Epenesa. Basham is no longer with the Bills, but the pick of LT Overton provides them options in the future if they are forced to make difficult financial decisions.”
– Josh Edwards of CBS Sports
The Bills drafted DeWayne Carter in the third round last offseason to add into the mixture of Ed Oliver and DaQuan Jones. Outside of those three, the Bills don’t have anyone else long-term in the trenches. Getting a player like Overton gives them flexibility at that position and Overton is a little bit like Oliver.
He isn’t the biggest player, but he has a motor that can help create an interior pass rush. Transferring from Texas A&M to Alabama, Overton gets to take on more NFL prospects which should help him in his development from now until the draft next year.
The Bills getting Overton wouldn’t be the biggest splash of a pick for Buffalo, but it does show the attempt to address a need of concern. Buffalo has always had a tough time stopping the run since Star Lotulelei was released by the team. It’s time to find an answer and Overton could be the answer if given the chance to come to Buffalo.