Nothing says “Monday after the Super Bowl” like a new mock draft. Luckily, we can always count on SB Nation’s Dan Kadar to deliver. Kadar put in the extra work to write a three-round mock draft for us this morning, so let’s take a look at who he sent to Buffalo. This mock gets the Bills a few talented options, but by focusing on positions with potential free agents, it ignores the option to upgrade weaknesses at safety or right tackle.
Round 1: Deshaun Watson, QB, Clemson
We’ve touched on the quarterback question dozens of times already, so we won’t rehash it much further. If the Bills jettison Tyrod Taylor, and they draft Watson, they’re getting a “gamer” who plays well in clutch situations, but a passer with accuracy issues and the tendency to take risks to try and generate big plays.
Round 2: Sidney Jones, CB, Washington
In the same vein of “news that has been rehashed endlessly now that we don’t have Rex Ryan’s antics to report about anymore,” Stephon Gilmore is a free agent, and he has no qualms with leaving Buffalo to secure a hefty payday.
If they’re looking for an immediate starter to replace him, Jones is one of a number of cornerbacks in this talent-laden draft who would fit the bill. The 6’0”, 180-pounder can get his hands on the ball, with nine interceptions and seven forced fumbles in three seasons. He mixes up in the run game, adding 8.5 career tackles for loss. The Bills could use his playmaking skills as they try to set up Sean McDermott’s opportunistic defense.
Round 3: Chad Hansen, WR, Cal
While it’s possible that the Bills re-sign at least one of their pending free agent receivers, the position group is in serious need of an overhaul and some depth. Kadar didn’t provide an explanation for the 6’2” 205 pound Hansen’s choice, but he could be seen as a potential WR2 or WR3 for the Bills.
Hansen was a one-year wonder that jumped into the draft after a great junior season catching passes from Davis Webb. This pick may be a bit of an overdraft, in my opinion, although beauty is always in the eye of the beholder.
Hansen found success in Cal’s “Air Raid” offense because of his ability to navigate between zone defenders and earn yards after the catch on screen plays. He isn’t an elite athlete, however, and he struggles with contested catches, making it hard to see a true starter’s upside.