Buffalo, NY – April 2026
Momentum is quietly building in Western New York, and according to Mel Kiper Jr., the Buffalo Bills may be preparing to make one of the boldest moves of Day 2.
After trading out of the first round and stockpiling draft capital, Buffalo now finds itself in prime position to trade up early in Round 2 to target a premier edge rusher — with one name rising above the rest: Cashius Howell.
The logic behind the move is clear. Buffalo entered the draft with multiple needs, but none more pressing than adding explosiveness to its pass rush.
Howell, widely viewed as one of the most athletic and disruptive edge defenders still on the board, represents the kind of upside swing that could immediately elevate the Bills’ defensive front.
For a team with playoff expectations, waiting and hoping he falls may not be an option.
Kiper’s projection suggests Buffalo won’t sit back at No. 35 and risk missing out. Instead, the Bills could package some of their additional picks to move up a few spots, securing a player who fits both their scheme and long-term vision.
With nine total selections across the final two days, Buffalo has the flexibility to be aggressive without compromising overall depth.
Still, the front office understands that draft boards rarely unfold exactly as planned. If Howell comes off the board earlier than expected, Buffalo is expected to pivot quickly.
One alternative target is CJ Allen, a physical, high-floor linebacker known for his ability to stop the run and bring stability to the middle of the defense.
While his ceiling may not match Howell’s, Allen offers immediate reliability — something the Bills could value highly.
Beyond the front seven, Buffalo is also expected to address depth in the secondary. Malik Muhammad has emerged as a strong Day 2 option, particularly in Round 3.
With lingering concerns at cornerback, adding a young, capable outside defender could provide much-needed competition and insurance behind the current starters.
Offensively, the Bills have not ignored the need to upgrade their receiving corps. Chris Bell is viewed as a potential third-round target, bringing size, production, and steady development throughout his collegiate career.
His addition would give Buffalo another weapon and help balance an offense that has faced criticism for lacking consistent playmakers outside of its core stars.
The broader strategy is beginning to take shape. Buffalo appears committed to using its draft capital not just to fill holes, but to control the board — moving when necessary, waiting when advantageous, and maximizing value across multiple positions.
The possibility of a trade-up for Howell signals a willingness to be proactive rather than reactive.