5 Defensive Tackles the Buffalo Bills Should Keep an Eye On
The Buffalo Bills’ defense has some work to do, especially when it comes to stopping the run. While they have Ed Oliver locked in long-term, DaQuan Jones is likely done after 2025, and last year’s third-round pick DeWayne Carter alone won’t cut it.
Buffalo’s run defense last season? Let’s just say it was rough. They gave up 120+ rushing yards in nine games and completely collapsed in Week 4 against the Ravens, surrendering a whopping 271 yards on the ground. Yikes.
To fix that, the Bills signed Larry Ogunjobi and Michael Hoecht, but both are suspended for six games due to PED violations. With ten draft picks this year, there’s no excuse not to add some muscle to the defensive line. Here are five prospects they should seriously consider:
1. JJ Pegues (Ole Miss)
If the Bills want versatility, Pegues is their guy. He played all over the defensive line at Ole Miss, racked up seven sacks over the past two seasons, and made Third-Team All-SEC. He could line up alongside Ed Oliver or DaQuan Jones in 2025 and possibly even take over a starting role down the line.
2. Kenneth Grant (Michigan)
Buffalo has been linked to Grant a lot lately, but the big question is whether he’ll still be available at pick No. 30. At 6’3″, 340 pounds, he can take on blockers with ease and even bat down passes at the line of scrimmage. If the Bills somehow land him, their run defense could take a major leap forward.
3. Deone Walker (Kentucky)
Walker is a massive 6’7″, 330-pound force who can overpower offensive linemen and shut down the run. If he had declared last year, he might’ve been a first-rounder, but his dip in production in 2024 could push him to Buffalo in Round 2. Don’t let that scare you he’d be a great fit in the middle of this defense.
4. Darius Alexander (Toledo)
Alexander isn’t a plug-and-play starter, but he has the tools to develop into one. He’s been a force on Toledo’s interior defensive line, and with some coaching, he could become a valuable depth piece in 2025 and potentially a starter in the future.
5. Joshua Farmer (Florida State)
If Buffalo wants a late-round steal, Farmer might be their guy. He plays with power, racking up nine sacks and 64 tackles over the last two seasons. His bull rush ability could add some much-needed physicality to the Bills’ defensive front.
Final Thoughts
Buffalo’s defensive line needs reinforcements, and with a deep draft class at defensive tackle, they have plenty of options. Whether they go for an immediate impact player or a long-term project, one thing is clear the Bills can’t afford to ignore this position any longer.
Buffalo Bills’ Wishlist: 5 Defensive Tackles Who Could Make an Impact
