Leading into the combine, national media make their predictions for the Bills and the 2019 NFL Draft.
No. 9 – TE T.J. Hockenson, Iowa
Hockenson will be a welcome addition to Buffalo's offense as a safety valve for second-year quarterback Josh Allen and a devastating blocker for the running game.
No. 40 – T Greg Little, Mississippi
Even though Little played left tackle at Ole Miss, he could plug in on the right side for the Bills as a rookie.
No. 74 – WR J.J. Arcega-Whiteside, Stanford
Arcega-Whiteside could significantly improve his draft status by testing well at the combine. If he doesn't, a team will still understand that his ability to fight for the ball in traffic will help him succeed at the next level.
No. 9 – T Jonah Williams, Alabama
The Bills need to build a supporting cast now that they have found their quarterback in Josh Allen. … Jonah Williams is a smooth, quick-footed technician who can also clock defenders as a run-blocker on the second level. … the Bills expect Allen to take a big step forward in the offseason. Williams can help make that happen.
No. 9 – DT Ed Oliver, Houston
The Bills might look to replace 13-year stalwart Kyle Williams in this draft, and Oliver is a disruptive interior player with a high ceiling. His 2018 season was disappointing compared to his '17 tape, but Oliver's athleticism is rare for a near-300-pounder and teams see his potential.
No. 9 – DT Christian Wilkins, Clemson
The Bills also need an outside rusher, OT and WR, but they take the best D-lineman on the board here.
No. 9 – DT Ed Oliver, Houston
There will be some questions about Oliver's ability to rush the passer but there is no doubting his quick-twitch abilities as a penetrator in the run game. He can slide immediately into the spot of the retiring Kyle Williams, and the Buffalo defense won't miss a beat.
No. 9 – T Jonah Williams, Alabama
They got their quarterback in Josh Allen last year, so now it's time to get help around him. Williams could also play guard.
No. 9 – T Jawaan Taylor, Florida
This is becoming a trendy pick for the Bills, but it makes a lot of sense. Given the depth of the wide receiver class, Buffalo has an opportunity to claim one of the best offensive tackle prospects in the class and make sure Josh Allen is protected while also providing much-needed power in the run game. Taylor is a massive man who carries his weight well while offering outstanding mobility for his size.
No. 40 – WR JJ Arcega-Whiteside, Stanford
A technically refined route runner who dominates at the catch point, Arcega-Whiteside can be the x-receiver Buffalo so desperately needs. His body control is exceptional and the game slows down for him at the catch point. He profiles as a short to intermediate threat for the Bills who also gets his work done as a blocker. He can help keep the chains moving while presenting a nightmare for opponents to defend in the redzone.
No. 9 – WR D.K. Metcalf, Mississippi
This offseason is all about building around Josh Allen. And this big, talented receiver is the perfect fit.
