Howell is 6-2 and around 253 pounds, with elite combine bursts and bend as a rusher but concerns about arm length (roughly 30 1/4 inches) and technique against bigger linemen. Feldman notes Howell’s 4.59 40-yard dash and a 1.58-10 split, highlighting a skill set reminiscent of Von Miller in terms of speed and bend, though Howell would be a later-first-round selection due to size.
At Texas A&M last season, Howell registered 11.5 sacks and 14 tackles for loss, including 11.5 sacks and a forced fumble in the best college campaign of his career. If he approaches Miller’s early-career impact, the Bills’ pass rush could receive a significant boost.
Buffalo has also undergone a defensive leadership shift, parting ways with defensive coordinator Bobby Babich and appointing Jim Leonhard to help craft a more versatile, attacking defense. Leonhard emphasizes flexibility and turnover opportunities, aiming to pressure opposing offenses and maximize Buffalo’s playmaking potential.
The Bills have already added multiple defensive free agents this offseason and may not be done. With a revamped approach and a focus on aggressive, frontline pressure, Buffalo remains in the market for impact players on defense as they navigate the draft.
