Buffalo Bills general manager Brandon Beane and head coach Joe Brady spoke to the media on April 20, sharing their thoughts ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft and providing updates on the team’s voluntary minicamp.
Beane addressed how this year’s draft class presents fewer consensus first-round prospects than usual, which could affect Buffalo’s decisions with their first pick. “There’s players that feel like they’re going in [Round] 1 but their agent or someone close to them also realizes they could go anywhere from 20 to 40. And there’s always players like that. I would say there’s probably maybe more in that category this year,” Beane said.
He explained that while top-end talent may be limited, there is depth at certain positions, allowing for incremental improvements to the roster. “You don’t have to hit homers; hit singles, doubles, triple, whatever it is. If a homer falls to you, great. But just continue to find ways to incrementally help our roster,” he said.
Beane also discussed what he looks for in potential draftees beyond athletic ability: “We’re looking for smart dudes. They love ball,” he said. He emphasized that team needs will be addressed over the course of the draft but not necessarily in early rounds.
Regarding injuries, Beane provided updates on several players recovering from various ailments—including Michael Hoecht (Achilles), Dorian Strong (neck), Tyler Bass (sports hernia), Tyrell Shavers (ACL), Landon Jackson (knee), Khalil Shakir (ankle), DeWayne Carter (Achilles), and Jordan Hancock (shoulder). Most are progressing through rehab with varying timelines for full participation.
Head coach Joe Brady highlighted his approach during prospect visits by focusing on player personalities as much as football skills: “The football element to me, you can see on tape, but I’m always so much more interested in what makes them tick…” Brady said.
Brady expressed satisfaction with attendance at voluntary workouts and described his evolving role as head coach: “I don’t want to micromanage. I’m trying to do a good job of letting them coach … remove myself a little bit.” He noted quarterback Josh Allen’s continued involvement has set a positive tone for the team during offseason activities.
Looking ahead, both Beane and Brady underscored flexibility heading into the draft weekend and ongoing efforts during offseason training as they prepare for the upcoming season.
