Buffalo Bills NFL Mock Draft Roundup 1.0

As a transfer from Purdue, Thieneman had back-to-back seasons with 100-plus tackles to go along with six interceptions as a freshman (2023). His new coaching staff at Oregon is singing his praises as well. "His attention to detail, his work ethic, is unlike anyone I've ever coached," co-defensive coordinator and defensive backs coach Chris Hampton said. "The guy's relentless in his pursuit for greatness. He's trying to get better each and every day. I mean, he's all about growth, every rep, every day, every meeting, like he's a pro ... the intangibles about this guy was really tremendous."

Thieneman's instincts can not be taught or replicated. The Purdue transfer had six interceptions and two forced fumbles as a true freshman. He should be targeting that level of production for the Ducks and opportunity will be available considering the players who left that secondary unit since the season ended.

Three of the Bills' first four draft picks this year were dedicated to the defensive front, but that shouldn't stop them from adding more. Bailey was a late transfer to Texas Tech from Stanford, where he finished with seven sacks and three forced fumbles in 2024. He is most comfortable from a stand-up position, and defensive coordinator Bobby Babich could scheme him off the edge in Buffalo.

One of my favorite defenders to watch from the 2026 class, Weeks (6-2, 228 pounds) leads all returning Power 4 linebackers with 56 stops to go with 17.0 havoc plays and a 22.2% pressure rate when blitzing. Buffalo's run defense would be instantly upgraded by plugging a blue-collar warrior like Weeks in the middle of the front.

The Bills could look for some new options in the secondary, and Smith is the rare safety who actually led the SEC in tackles last season to prove how well he can play the run in addition to dropping deep. He has the speed and solid size to become an excellent option for teams at the next level.

A potential top-50 pick had he declared for the 2025 draft, Ramsey is a rangy athlete with a good feel for coverage. He gives scouts a reason to focus on the Trojans' defense in 2025.

Veteran Connor McGovern has performed well since signing a three-year deal with the Bills out of Dallas, earning a Pro Bowl nod this past season. Given the salary cap restraints they are facing, will the Bills prioritize re-signing him after this year? Brailsford isn't as big or physical, but his agility and smarts could make him a cheap alternative.

When you have to slow the likes of Patrick Mahomes, Joe Burrow and Lamar Jackson, it never hurts to have a robust group of defensive backs capable of deterring deep shots. Thieneman intercepted six passes as a freshman at Purdue, and his transfer to Oregon might further highlight how much he could aid a defense that doesn't offer much excitement with its current safety tandem of Taylor Rapp and Damar Hamlin.