The Bills are set along the edge for the 2020 season, if things project out well. Jerry Hughes and the recently signed Mario Addison should be leading the way with Trent Murphy looking at a chance to contribute as well.
However, that starting duo is not young. They’ll contribute in 2020 and perhaps 2021, but they’re both already 30-plus years old while Murphy is entering the final year of his contract. The Bills don’t have many needs, but bringing in a younger option along their defensive front with that trio is of importance.
With that in mind, that doesn’t mean Buffalo has to reach for one at the upcoming 2020 NFL Draft. There’s a chance the Bills could land their pass-rushing prospect at defensive end in the middle of the selection process.
Here are seven mid-round edge defender prospects that should be on the Bills draft radar this week:
Jonathan Greenard | Florida
Jonathan Greenard is certainly on the Bills draft radar since he reportedly met with the team at the recent scouting combine. Pegged anywhere from Day 2 to an early Day 3 pick, Greenard could impact an NFL roster next season. Greenard was a first-team, All-SEC selection last year, notching a team-high 15.5 tackles for loss and 9.5 sacks in 12 starts. He also had an interception and three forced fumbles, so he has a knack for some game-changing plays. Greenard is also described as a “worker bee” in terms of effort.
A red flag on Greenard is certainly a wrist injury he suffered in 2018. Last season he played with it wrapped and padded all season. Analysis of his game expresses some concerns on getting outside the tackle as well, whether it’s to set the edge against the run or beating tackles on the outside while rushing the passer.
Jonathan Greenard doesn't much care for Kentucky – comes away with the sack pic.twitter.com/NkH5pzlQb7
— libgator (@lib_gator) September 14, 2019