Latest: Buffalo Bills Now Identify Three Key Targets for 2024 offseason Draft At Senior Bowl
These three potential candidates are among the considerations for GM Brandon Beane and the Buffalo Bills organization at One Bills Drive. The Senior Bowl practices in Mobile, AL are currently underway, attracting the attention of the Bills’ management and representatives from the other 31 NFL teams. This event marks the initial phase of a series of showcases for the prospective NFL Draft class of 2024 during the offseason.
The Senior Bowl not only features on-field practices but also crucial interview processes. Teams, including the Bills, will engage in face-to-face interactions with the attending prospects, aiming to gain insights into their personalities and skills. This will aid in the formulation of the Bills’ draft board, expected to be finalized by late April.
A notable development in the 2024 Senior Bowl is the inclusion of underclassmen, adding a new dimension to the event’s traditional name. This change has led to the inclusion of numerous talented young prospects on the roster in recent weeks.
With over 130 players participating this week, practices kicked off on Tuesday at 10:30 am EST. For those following the action on ESPN or NFL Network, here are a few key prospects to keep an eye on throughout the week.
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Kam Kinchens, S (Miami)
Within the realm of possibilities, One Bills Drive may find itself in need of two new starting safeties in 2024, given that 33-year-old Micah Hyde is a pending unrestricted free agent, and Jordan Poyer, also approaching 33, is on the last year of his contract in 2024. A notable prospect at the safety position in this year’s class is set to participate in the All-Star game, leveraging the new rules that allow underclassmen to join.
This prospect, emerging from his true junior season at Miami, possesses exceptional ball skills and the versatility to play effectively in deep coverage. Additionally, he demonstrates a willingness to contribute to run support, showcasing both range and stopping power evident on game footage.
However, there’s an element of inconsistency in Kinchens’ current performance. He has been involved in several busted coverages, and there are instances where his aggressive approach to coverage, while seeking big plays, has inadvertently benefited the opposing offense.
The upcoming week holds significant importance for Kinchens as he has the opportunity to showcase his skills once again. This will serve as a platform for him to reaffirm why many initially considered him a potential top safety in the draft class before his senior season.
Devontez Walker, WR (North Carolina)
— Reese's Senior Bowl (@seniorbowl) January 29, 2024
In 2024, the Buffalo Bills noticeably lacked a dynamic deep-threat wide receiver. While they appreciated the contributions from rookie first-round tight end Dalton Kincaid, the absence of a true vertical threat, particularly evident in critical matchups like the game against the Kansas City Chiefs resulting in Buffalo’s elimination, was evident. A prospect with the attributes of being tall, fast, and possessing the capability to stretch the defense will be showcasing his talents in Mobile, offering the Bills’ decision-makers a firsthand look.
Walker garnered national attention early in the season due to NCAA denial of eligibility when he transferred from Kent State to North Carolina. This led to him missing a significant portion of the season while awaiting approval for a waiver, which was eventually granted. Once on the field, Walker proved to be an immediate impact player on the outside, contributing to the success of potential number-one overall pick Drake Maye.
Standing at 6’1 1/2″ with legitimate length and smooth, long strides, Walker effortlessly maneuvers through defenses. His reliable hands, adept ball tracking, and impressive speed further enhance his skill set. While there is room for improvement in his NFL route tree, Walker represents a player archetype that aligns with the Bills’ needs. This week in Mobile presents a significant opportunity for Walker to solidify his standing as a Day 2 prospect.
T’Vondre Sweat, DT (Texas)
— Reese's Senior Bowl (@seniorbowl) January 29, 2024
Another significant potential offseason need for the Buffalo Bills may arise at the defensive tackle position, especially with the impending free agency of DaQuan Jones, a notable 2022 free-agency acquisition. The situation is further complicated by the potential departures of free-agent defensive tackles Tim Settle and Jordan Phillips, leaving Ed Oliver as the solitary presence with a long-term contract.
The Bills are in need of young talent, particularly at the one-technique position. One standout prospect to keep an eye on, recognized as the top one-technique in the class, is Texas’ T’Vondre Sweat. Standing at an impressive 6’4″ and weighing around 360 pounds, Sweat is considered a physical marvel. Unlike traditional players of his size, Sweat boasts remarkable lower body explosiveness and serves as a disruptive force in the middle, showcasing versatility beyond being a conventional nose tackle.
Sweat is anticipated to be one of the standout performers at the Senior Bowl, regardless of position, and his physical attributes relative to his size are exceptional. Given the Bills’ pressing need, the one-on-one matchups will be particularly intriguing for Sweat as he aims to demonstrate his potential as a pass rusher. The Senior Bowl presents a crucial opportunity for Sweat to showcase his abilities and address the Bills’ significant need in the defensive tackle position.