If this kind of scenario plays out, Bills fans will be ecstatic.

It’s clear that the Buffalo Bills need to strengthen their defense, and this should be their top focus heading into the offseason. Whether through free agency or the draft, general manager Brandon Beane must address all three levels of the defense.

Given the numerous injuries and underwhelming performances from several players, it’s evident that the defense will need significant changes for the 2025 season. Before last season even started, the Bills lost Mike Edwards and Cole Bishop to injuries for an extended period. To fill the gaps, they had to bring in veteran Kareem Jackson to add depth to the secondary.

The Buffalo Bills’ defense took a major hit when linebacker Matt Milano suffered a torn bicep, sidelining him for much of the season. As a result, the defense started to fall apart. While they weren’t bad all season, there were games where the defense played a major role in their losses (or near losses).

Buffalo’s run defense was particularly troubling at times in 2024, with their worst performance coming in Week 4 against the Ravens, when they allowed 271 rushing yards in a 35-10 loss.

How Brandon Beane approaches free agency will heavily influence their draft strategy. Both Beane and head coach Sean McDermott prioritize player development through the draft, so fans should expect a heavy focus on defensive additions.

Buffalo Bills’ 3-Round NFL Mock Draft for Defensive Help

Round 1, No. 30: DT Kenneth Grant, Michigan
If Kenneth Grant is available when the Bills are on the clock, it should be a no-brainer to select him. At 6’3” and 340 lbs, Grant would be a perfect complement to Ed Oliver on the defensive line. He excels at stuffing the run and generating quarterback pressure—two areas the Bills struggled with this past season. Grant wouldn’t need to rack up huge stats; his primary role would be to absorb double teams and create interior pressure alongside Oliver.

Round 2, No. 56 (from MIN): DE Jack Sawyer, Ohio State
Adding both a Wolverine and a Buckeye in the same draft would be a fun storyline, but more importantly, it would help improve Buffalo’s defensive line for years to come. Jack Sawyer had a breakout season with Ohio State, registering nine sacks, three forced fumbles, fumble recoveries, and his first interception. With Von Miller potentially on his way out and key players like A.J. Epenesa and Greg Rousseau heading into contract years, Buffalo needs a physical pass rusher who can disrupt plays. Sawyer could fill that role immediately.

Round 2, No. 62: CB Darien Porter, Iowa State
It wouldn’t be a typical Bills draft without a defensive back, and Darien Porter fits the bill. A larger cornerback, Porter could help address the secondary issues that have plagued Buffalo due to injuries and inconsistent play. With Rasul Douglas set to hit free agency, the Bills may need to draft a corner if he leaves. Porter’s size and potential make him a solid choice to strengthen the Bills’ secondary.