2020 NFL Draft: Ranking Brandon Beane, Sean McDermott’s draft picks

Here is an updated ranking of the McBeane-era draft picks for the Buffalo Bills. 

Buffalo Bills defensive back Siran Neal. Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports

  1. DT Harrison Phillips

“Horrible Harry” had a nice start to his career, playing a rotational role on the interior of the Bills defensive line. He suffered an ACL injury early last season, and he subsequently missed the majority of the year. He will look to return to his rookie form, where he registered 35 total tackles and played 38-percent of the defensive snaps. Phillips was preforming at a high rate before being hurt. 

  1. S Siran Neal

Neal stepped up last season, playing the “big nickel” position to help fulfill scheme matchups for McDermott. He registered 36 total tackles, two tackles for loss, and a forced fumble. The 2018 fifth rounder hasn’t played much safety for the Bills to this point, though. 

  1. CB Taron Johnson

Johnson has played well as the Bills slot nickel back. In two seasons, Johnson has recorded 92 total tackles, eight passes defended, two forced fumbles, and two sacks. He fits in well with his versatility. He’s expected to play an important role in the Bills secondary moving forward. The 2018 fourth rounder has struggled at times to stay healthy in his career, though. 

  1. TE Dawson Knox

The athletic tight end was a bit of a surprise last year. He bowled over opposing defenders, making a mark as a powerful player in the open field. Knox moved to the top of the tight end depth chart after an injury to Tyler Kroft. Knox held the position and looks to be the starter for the foreseeable future. The third-round pick will look to improve his catch ratio though, as there were some issues with his hands at the time. Nevertheless, he is the best option for the Bills at tight end. Buffalo moved back into Round 3 a year ago to take Knox. 

  1. T Cody Ford

Ford stepped in as the team’s starting right tackle last year. Early in the season, he split snaps with Ty Nsekhe.  There were some growing pains, but Ford gradually improved throughout the season. Ford will continue to refine his game into next season, as he enters camp as the No. 1 right tackle on paper. Buffalo returns all their starters next season along with Ford, which should help him in Year 2. 

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