NFL insiders indicate Buffalo may look to upgrade the front seven in the first round, a move that would align with the team’s long-term investment in pass rusher Bradley Chubb, who signed a three-year deal this offseason. Even with Chubb in the fold, some expect the Bills to consider an edge presence if a top prospect remains available.
The debate includes the possibility of drafting a middle linebacker, given free-agent departures at that position and the lack of progress there in free agency. A front-seven upgrade could come even if the team doesn’t select an edge rusher, as youth at linebacker could help infuse the unit with speed and versatility.
Buffalo has already retooled its offense by trading for DJ Moore, signaling a likely focus on defense in the first round. Moore is expected to be the Bills’ top wide receiver this season, reducing the emphasis on adding a premium pass catcher early and allowing the Bills to prioritize defensive impact players.
Josh Allen’s elite play at quarterback gives Buffalo confidence in its offense, but experts say reinforcing the defense could more directly support a deep playoff run and potential Super Bowl aspirations. The Bills’ draft strategy will likely balance preserving cap flexibility and pursuing high-upside defensive prospects in the back half of the first round.
In sum, the prevailing narrative among insiders is that Buffalo will target defensive help with the 26th pick, with front-seven production and linebacker depth as primary considerations, while utilizing the newly acquired DJ Moore to maintain offensive horsepower.
