Several sports media outlets released their latest Buffalo Bills mock drafts in March, outlining a range of prospects who could be selected with the team’s first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. The projections come as the Bills seek to address key roster needs and adjust to recent changes on both offense and defense.
The draft predictions matter for fans and analysts as they provide insight into how national experts view the team’s priorities after an offseason marked by salary cap challenges, player departures, and new acquisitions. The selections also reflect ongoing discussions about how Buffalo will adapt under new defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard.
Among the most frequently mentioned names is wide receiver KC Concepcion from Texas A&M. Both Eric Edholm of NFL.com and Mike Renner of CBS Sports projected Concepcion at No. 26 overall, citing his versatility as a multi-tool weapon and his ability to return punts—a skill that has been missing from Buffalo’s special teams in recent seasons. Edholm noted that “Buffalo also has gone two seasons without returning a punt for a TD — something Concepcion pulled off twice in 2025.” Renner said Concepcion’s separation skills could help revamp the receiving corps but acknowledged concerns about his consistency catching passes.
Other analysts focused on defensive prospects. Daniel Jeremiah of NFL.com predicted edge rusher Cashius Howell would be chosen, highlighting Howell’s speed at the scouting combine despite questions about his arm length. Mel Kiper Jr. from ESPN pointed to cornerback Avieon Terrell as a solution for depth issues following several departures in Buffalo’s secondary: “Terrell is great in man coverage, showing the ability to stick on receivers.” Additional suggestions included safeties Emmanuel McNeil-Warren (Yahoo Sports) and Dillon Thieneman (PFF), along with edge rushers T.J. Parker (CBS Sports/USA Today) and Zion Young (The Athletic).
Some experts emphasized strategic flexibility created by recent moves such as acquiring veteran receiver DJ Moore, which could allow general manager Brandon Beane to target positions other than wide receiver if needed.
As anticipation builds ahead of the draft, these mock projections offer possible directions for how Buffalo might shape its roster heading into next season.
