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Bills GM Doug Whaley expects three rookies to start this season

Buffalo Bills general manager Doug Whaley believes that the 2016 draft class will have a very immediate impact on his team’s roster.
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Buffalo Bills general manager Doug Whaley believes that the 2016 draft class will have a very immediate impact on his team’s roster, he said on NFL Network.

When asked if there will be any week 1 starters among the rookies, Whaley responded with a specific number.

"At least three," Whaley said. "Shaq Lawson is going to walk in off the bus starting. Reggie Ragland and then Adolphus Washington—all three of those guys will start right off the bus. And we're excited for some guys from the fourth through sixth rounds that will contribute for us."

All three of those players line up on the defensive side of the ball, were the Bills finished 15th in points per game and 19th in total defense last season.

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Lawson was a consensus All-American at defensive end for Clemson, while Ragland was the SEC Defensive Player of the Year as a linebacker. Washington played 11 games at defensive tackle for Ohio State, making 49 tackles and four sacks.