On one hand, the 2010 Bills played a lot more competitively than their 4-12 record indicated. They looked improved on offense under Chan Gailey and could have won many more games, often against playoff teams.
On the other hand, they still finished 28th in points scored and points allowed, bottoming out with only ten points combined in blowout losses the final two weeks. The Bills are up next in our team needs series, and they have plenty of them.
DL: Buffalo needs numbers badly here to help their run defense. Kyle Williams is an underrated star, and his versatility is a big bonus. The team could use an early pick on a defensive end or tackle and move Williams around to fit where he’s needed. A few linemen would help.
LB: Buffalo switched to a 3-4 defense last year, creating a number of new “needs” and an inferior defensive group to the one Dick Jauron coached. Outside linebackers Shawne Merriman and Chris Kelsay are making good money, but any production from Merriman should be considered a bonus. Second-year player Arthur Moats would fit best on passing downs. This group is not good enough to pass on Von Miller just because they have players at the position. He’d be a great fit.
Getting help on the inside later in the draft would also make sense with Paul Posluszny likely to be a free agent and no young talent at the position.
QB: Gailey can coach up quarterbacks. Ryan Fitzpatrick is a solid option in Gailey’s offense, but he’s not a guy you build your future around. Gailey knows how to get creative with mobile guys, so Cam Newton makes some sense. Taking a signal caller in second round seems like the better bet this year.
T: Gailey said the Bills have to find a tackle in free agency or the draft. Right tackle was a turnstile last year for the team. If they can get the right tackle position settled, an improving line led by guards Eric Wood and Andy Levitre could surprise people.
Overview: The Bills have five picks in the first four rounds and they could use even more. They should be focusing on defensive playmakers unless they really believe in a quarterback. Reaching for one that doesn’t fit at No. 3 overall would set this franchise back once again.