2017 NFL Draft: 5 First Round Options for the Buffalo Bills
By Tyler Olson
2. Jamal Adams, S – LSU
Gone are both Aaron Williams and Corey Graham. In are both Micah Hyde and Jordan Poyer. Jamal Adams could be the next safety to join the group in Buffalo.
The Hyde signing was a big upgrade for the Bills. He can play multiple positions on the defense, including slot corner, and he’s also an asset on special teams. Poyer, however, hasn’t started more than six games in a season and that came last year in Cleveland, going on injured reserve after a big hit that lacerated his kidney.
Adams is a do-it-all safety. He’s shown the ability to jump routes in the middle of the field, play centerfield and come up and play the run. If drafted, he’d be plugged in and run with the starters from Day 1. He’s a hot commodity, though, as many teams in the first nine picks are certainly getting a good look at him prior to draft day.
1. Deshaun Watson, QB – Clemson
Tyrod Taylor has one year to prove himself to McDermott, otherwise he’s done in Buffalo. He may have more pressure than he wants going into the season from a quarterback like Deshaun Watson.
A pedigree with national champion written all over him, Watson would be a welcomed site in Buffalo. Although Taylor is a favorite throughout Bills Mafia, the Bills haven’t had a quarterback with the type of credentials Watson has in a long time.
Taylor brings excitement to Buffalo. He brings a swagger that fans love but that ship might’ve set sail the second Rex Ryan was fired. Doug Whaley has made it obvious he’s not a fan of Taylor ( a large reason why Cardale Jones took over in week 17. But as I previously stated, he doesn’t have a choice; bringing in Watson would ultimately be a call from McDermott, the rest of the coaching staff and possibly ownership.
Next: 2017 NFL Draft: Bills Early-April 7-Round Mock Draft
Through two full seasons starting for Clemson, Watson led the Tigers to the National Championship Game while throwing for 86 touchdowns and 30 interceptions. He gets flagged for his decision-making, but he’s a winner. That just needs to translate to the pro level.