The Buffalo Bills have a dilemma when it comes to making a decision on taking a QB in the first round Thursday night. They have the 12th and 22nd picks in the first round but quarterback should not be in the mix and here's why:
A.J. McCarron is still young:
McCarron was drafted out of Alabama back in 2014 by the Bengals, but didn't break through as the starter because Andy Dalton hadn't disappointed them. He has started a handful of games and has a decent QB rating (93.6) and completion percentage (64.7). McCarron is still only 27 years old, so rushing to get a future starter should not be on their immediate plans. I personally think McCarron can hold up at least the first year of his two year deal.
Nathan Peterman is the back up heading into training camp but he will probably have to compete for that position because of a lackluster 2017 campaign. He threw 5 interceptions in his first NFL game against the Los Angeles Chargers and only played sparingly the rest of the way.
Buffalo has others needs/Needs to add depth:
Buffalo played better than expected in 2017 after trading key players like Marcel Dareus, Sammy Watkins and E.J. Gaines. This season will another monster because the AFC East will get better and their schedule is on the tougher road this upcoming season. The Bills were active in free agency, finding former All-pro center Eric Wood's replacement and solidifying key positions on defense at every level. Second year receiver Zay Jones is now a question mark after his off-the-field issues this past off season so look for the Bills to add depth there.
Buffalo needs to also think about LeSean McCoy's future as the 10-year veteran will turn 30 in July and they should be in the market to find his replacement soon. McCoy's production has remained consistent throughout his career but every running back has everyone questioning their ability once they reach 30. There will be good talent at both of those picks in the first round and in the middle of the second so there shouldn't be a problem with getting him a running mate.
There are solid Quarterbacks in 2nd round and beyond:
NFL draft analysts are predicting the Bills to move up in the top 5 to take Josh Allen, but that would be a BIG mistake largely because of the before mentioned reasons and there will be solid quarterbacks on day 2 & 3. Mason Rudolph is a name that's gaining steam since his performance at the Resse's Senior Bowl. Rudolph has the NFL size (6'4 1/2), arm and shows good pocket presence but the only questions that are remaining is his adjustment at the next level.
Another name that's also getting attention is Richmond QB Kyle Lauletta who also had an impressive Senior Bowl and kept his momentum going at the NFL combine in February. Lauletta was CAA offensive player of the year in 2017 and the 6'3 drew comparisons to Jimmy G during his week of practice in Mobile. He threw for 3,000 yards in 3 consecutive seasons and holds school records for passing yards and touchdown passes. One concern of NFL scouts is the torn ACL he suffered during his junior season.
Buffalo will have to stretch it out with McCarron and Peterman if they want to avoid another setback as a team. Use as many picks as it takes to build your team back up as a contender in the AFC.
Follow me on:
Twitter: @fatboislim_ 21
Facebook: The Sports Machine
Instagram: an2won
Pinterest: Antwon Smith
Comments
Post a Comment