Before we can move beyond talking about what the Buffalo Bills did this past weekend during the 2026 NFL Draft, we should take a few minutes to revisit the collective grade handed out by Buffalo Rumblings readers via our latest Reacts poll. Many find grading a rookie class mere hours or days after the selection process to be a fruitless endeavor.
While no one has a clue yet as to how any of Buffalo’s rookie will fare on the field, there is merit to grading the team’s intent and execution based on a player’s observed college resume. The Bills once again prioritized defense, this time looking to add more explosive athletes to a group set for a scheme overhaul in 2026.
That Buffalo went defense surprised almost no one, but what caught most off guard was their willingness to ignore prototypical zero-tech nose tackles. The Bills did select a defensive tackle in Zane Durant, but he profiles more in the mold of someone like Ed Oliver. Some folks remain concerned about the situation, but when one steps back to consider that the team may not intend to operate using a classic nose tackle, things begin to look different.
It’s clear the Bills want to build a defense that attacks opponents, and one that perhaps has less room for a space eater up front. Still, there were other moves made to add defenders that didn’t meet many fans’ expectations. Namely, the selection of cornerback Davison Igbinosun. He represents a departure from prior McDermott players who fit the mold of zone-savvy corners. Igbinosun thrives in press-man coverage, and he’s a highly physical player who will make sure his opponent gets to know him in little time.
As for Buffalo’s top pick, edge rusher T.J. Parker, the team views him in the mold of Bradley Chubb, who just so happens to play for the Bills now. While selecting Parker may have caused folks to question when and where he finds opportunity as a rookie, his potential is enormous. Can he build off a stellar 2024 college season? Time will tell, but that’s exactly what should benefit Parker in learning from Chubb, Rousseau, and company as he gets his feet wet in the NFL.
So what did Rumblers give the Bills for an immediate grade? Leading the way were 43% of voters who handed One Bills Drive a “B” for their work on draft weekend. The only other group of votes nearby that figure were the 31% of folks who gave Buffalo a “C” grade. After that, there were 13% of voters who saw fit to give the Bills an “A,” while 8% of votes went toward a “D,” and 6% of votes to an “F” grade.
It is understandably challenging to gauge how the team intends to use many of this year’s rookies, especially on defense. That’s mostly due to the lack of news on Leonhard’s intended system, and little to go off in regards to his work leading a defense in the NFL.
We’ve officially entered wait and see season, Bills Mafia!
Think you’ve got the moves to make a play on the Buffalo Bills in 2026? Join the game within the game at FanDuel Sportsbook today!