This post is part of a continuing series in which we break down 13 2011 NFL Draft prospects - our Baker's Dozen - that should interest the Buffalo Bills. Keep up to date on our Baker's Dozen series here.
Yesterday, we spent some time with Dan Kadar of MockingTheDraft.com discussing Clemson defensive end Da'Quan Bowers and his fit with the Bills. Given the fact that Bowers was less than satisfactory at his pro day, and the theory that the Bills are still looking for defensive ends that can do more than simply stuff the run (though that would be nice too), it seemed timely to ask Dan about a player perceived to be a safer prospect - Cal's Cameron Jordan.
I asked Dan three simple questions about Jordan in relation to yesterday's Bowers piece. He graciously sent us some opinions to chew on despite the fact that he's an extremely busy dude. Our conversation appears after the jump.
BG: Yesterday, you compared Bowers and Jordan, saying that Bowers is a bit quicker in his base. What advantages does Jordan have over Bowers?
DK: The best advantage Jordan has over Bowers is that he's been playing in a 3-4 system already. He's also more experienced in general. So in Jordan, you'd get a player who can probably make a more immediate impact than Bowers, but doesn't have quite as high of a ceiling.
BG: Is Jordan capable of providing the same scheme flexibility alongside Kyle Williams that Bowers does (theoretically)?
DK: For the most part. He might not be as good as Bowers rushing the passer, but he's just as good holding the edge against the run.
BG: Is there any reasonable argument that can be made for taking Jordan over Bowers? In the Top 5?
DK: The only argument that that seems plausible is Bowers' injury situation. The rumor now is that he may need microfracture surgery. That could be a big risk for a team to take on. With the Bills really needing to hit with the third pick, that could cause them to view Jordan as a safer player. Still, though, it's hard to imagine him being taken in the top five.
We're less than four weeks away from the start of the 2011 NFL Draft. Maybe it's just me, but I'm starting to get the feeling that if the Bills stay at No. 3 overall, there's really only one defensive lineman worthy of being picked that early - and the odds of him being available are slim to none.