With the Buffalo Bills headed into the playoffs to face the Indianapolis Colts, and expectations that they can make it to the Super Bowl, it’s understandably difficult for fans to turn their attention to the upcoming NFL Draft. Having said that, ESPN’s Todd McShay just released one of his first mock drafts of the season (subscription required) which, outside of marking the beginning of draft season for the NFL, is always an event we should be talking about at Buffalo Rumblings. With the Bills projected to have the 29th pick in the first round through utilizing ESPN’s Football Power Index, the seasoned draft evaluator has the Bills selecting Ohio State interior offensive lineman Wyatt Davis. Here’s what McShay had to say regarding the choice:
29. Buffalo Bills
Wyatt Davis, G, Ohio State
The Josh Allen-Stefon Diggs connection was electric this season, but with Jon Feliciano, Daryl Williams and Brian Winters starring (sic) at free agency, the interior offensive line will likely need new blood to keep Allen upright and flinging it to Diggs. Cody Ford will return from a knee injury, but Davis has the 315-pound size, mobility and awareness to make a big impact. In 666 pass-blocking snaps over the past two seasons, Davis has allowed just two sacks.
Grif’s Take
The need to further invest in their offensive line is firmly established. Even if Buffalo were to re-sign Feliciano and Daryl Williams, they would still need additional support, as both Brian Winters and Ike Boettger will be free agents entering the offseason. (Boettger will be a Restricted Free Agent). Beyond that, center Mitch Morse suffered his fifth confirmed concussion during the 2020 season and carries a contract that does not necessarily match his production.
Built like a square block of granite, Davis has the anchor strength, movement skills and agility required to earn a starting role on an NFL offensive line early in his career. As McShay points out, his pass protection has been strong throughout his career. In the ground game, there’s a reason Ohio State running back Trey Sermon has had a breakout year. In terms of fit, his skillset would work for both gap- and zone-blocking schemes, which is a valuable skill in the Buffalo’s offense.