When it comes to finding hidden gems on Day 3 of the NFL Draft, few executives do it better than Buffalo Bills GM Brandon Beane. Since taking the helm in 2018, Beane has turned the final day of the draft—typically a lottery for most teams—into a goldmine of talent.
Just look at the hits: Taron Johnson, Wyatt Teller, Gabe Davis, Tyler Bass, Dane Jackson, Christian Benford, Khalil Shakir, and Damar Hamlin. That's a mix of key starters, reliable role players, and even a playoff hero or two. Add in this year's late-rounders like Deone Walker and Jackson Hawes, and it's clear Beane has a knack for finding value when the spotlight fades.
In 2026, Buffalo made eight of its ten picks on Saturday—a testament to the front office's confidence in mining talent from the later rounds. For fans who love the draft's deep cuts, this is must-watch stuff.
So, which of this year's Day 3 picks will have the best NFL career? For us, it's not just about pre-draft grades anymore—team fit is everything. And in this case, the scouting report and the scheme align perfectly.
Our pick: Linebacker Kaleb Elarms-Orr. We had a Top 20 overall grade on him—yes, that high. He checked every box in our rookie profile. Sure, he's behind two veteran starters at inside linebacker right now, but don't sleep on defensive coordinator Jim Leonard getting creative. Expect a rotation based on matchups, downs, and distances.
Elarms-Orr is a rocket to the football. He reads leverage and positioning in coverage like a seasoned pro, and he's a reliable tackler who doesn't miss. Add in his blitzing ability, and you've got a modern three-down linebacker who can spy the quarterback, drop into coverage, or chase down plays sideline to sideline.
We see him stepping into a full-time role sooner rather than later—and making a serious impact for a defense that loves versatile, athletic playmakers.
