The Buffalo Bills boasted a high-powered offense in 2024, led by MVP quarterback Josh Allen, but defensive struggles throughout the season may push the team to focus on strengthening that side of the ball in the 2025 NFL Draft.
A recent Pro Football Network (PFN) mock draft projects Buffalo using its first four picks on defensive prospects in an effort to bolster the roster and finally break through to the Super Bowl for the first time in over three decades.
Bills Select DT Kenneth Grant at No. 30 Overall
Analyst Ben Rolfe highlighted Buffalo’s need for defensive reinforcements in his latest mock draft, starting with Michigan defensive tackle Kenneth Grant in the first round.
“The Bills addressed edge-rusher depth with Joey Bosa and Michael Hoecht, but defensive tackle remains a priority,” Rolfe wrote. “Kenneth Grant, an explosive lineman from Michigan, offers size, speed, and power, making him a disruptive force in the trenches. While he may not always fill up the stat sheet, his ability to occupy blockers will free up teammates to make plays. His floor is that of a dominant run defender, with the potential to develop into a high-impact pass rusher.”
Grant would provide a strong presence in the middle of the defensive line, complementing Ed Oliver in a rotation that could solidify Buffalo’s interior defense.
Buffalo Loads Up on Secondary and Edge Talent
The defensive overhaul continued in this mock draft, as Rolfe projected Buffalo selecting Kentucky CB Maxwell Hairston at No. 56 overall.
“The Bills’ secondary depth was exposed by the Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC Championship Game,” Rolfe noted. “With Dane Jackson returning to join Christian Benford and Taron Johnson, depth remains a concern. Maxwell Hairston, one of the standout performers at the NFL Combine, possesses elite speed and playmaking ability. He could push for a starting role right away or provide high-level depth.”
Buffalo then added another defensive weapon at No. 62 overall, selecting Ohio State EDGE JT Tuimoloau to reinforce the pass rush.
“Buffalo continues to invest in its defense, this time with a pass-rusher,” Rolfe explained. “Tuimoloau has the physical tools and explosiveness to be a dominant edge defender, but he hasn’t fully unlocked his potential. While he still needs development, he has the upside to be a high-impact pass rusher.”
Bills’ Defensive Emphasis Signals Confidence in Offensive Core
If Buffalo prioritizes defense early in the draft, it would signal confidence in the current offensive roster. Key playmakers like James Cook, Khalil Shakir, and Dalton Kincaid would remain integral parts of the attack, while the front office focuses on building a championship-caliber defense around them.
With multiple defensive prospects projected to land in Buffalo, this draft strategy could provide the missing pieces needed for the Bills to take the next step in their Super Bowl pursuit.
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