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Bills Enter 2026 Draft Without a Second-Round Pick as Beane Eyes Flexibility

Buffalo targets players who fit Jim Leonhard’s speed-first defense.

Overview

  • The Bills hold No. 26 overall and six later picks (91, 126, 165, 168, 182, 220) after sending their second-rounder away in the D.J. Moore trade.
  • That limited early capital points to a possible trade-back, a move general manager Brandon Beane has used to add picks in past drafts.
  • Top needs identified are an edge rusher, a wide receiver, a true middle linebacker, and a space-eating nose tackle for Leonhard’s scheme.
  • Names linked to Buffalo’s slots include edge rushers Cashius Howell, Zion Young, and Malachi Lawrence, nose tackle Kayden McDonald, and receivers KC Concepcion and Omar Cooper Jr.
  • One analysis warns against Clemson edge T.J. Parker as a poor speed fit, argues No. 26 is rich for LB C.J. Allen, and flags WR Denzel Boston’s separation concerns.