Bills Can Build Stronger Connection with Pitt in Draft
INDIANAPOLIS -- Two former Pitt Panthers began the 2023 NFL season roaming the back end of the Buffalo Bills' defense. Damar Hamlin and Dane Jackson - two Day 3 picks turned starters for the Super Bowl contenders from Buffalo - could be just the beginning of an increasingly strong connection to the Panthers.
The Bills, one of the most talented rosters in the AFC and football in general last year, are still looking to make additions that cover for some expected losses and keep the franchise moving forward. They can do that by adding some former Panthers through the 2023 NFL Draft.
One of the biggest needs Bills general manager Brandon Beane identified when he spoke with media assembled at the NFL Combine was for explosive athletes that can create big plays out of thin air. Israel Abanikanda, who led the NCAA in touchdowns scored and ACC in rushing yards, thanks to frequent long runs created by his decisiveness and speed, fits that bill. Leading rusher Devin Singletary's future with the team is up in the air and Abanikanda would make their running backs room younger, cheaper and more capable of breaking off big runs that take pressure off Josh Allen's arm.
Buffalo wandered severely over the salary cap to build this team and is facing decisions on whether or not to retain aging unrestricted free agents Shaq Lawson or Jordan Phillips. A young, athletic replacement for those pass rushers is right under their nose in Habakkuk Baldonado, the long-armed Italian native that has slid after his production took a dip in his senior year, somewhat due to a mid-year injury.
Starting safety Jordan Poyer's status for next season is still up in the air too. The Bills like their versatility and Brandon Hill's abilities make him a viable option for a team that has hit on late-round defensive backs before, particularly ones from Pitt. Jackson (seventh-round pick) and Hamlin (sixth-round pick) were both starters for Buffalo this season.
Hill isn't being talked about as one of the top-line defensive backs in this draft, but the way he played in Pitt's scheme made him versatile. He's a hard hitter, and strong athlete who was forced to cover at a high level when left on islands against slot corners. The Bills have had a rotating cast of characters manning the back end of their defense this year and but Hill could give them depth at a position of sore need.
Between Abanikanda, Hill and Baldonado, there is value for the Buffalo Bills all over this Draft emanating from Pittsburgh. It's a short ride up up I-79 to Buffalo, New York and there are familiar faces waiting for the Panthers who would be great fits in that city and with that team.
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