Buffalo Bills Draft Needs

ORCHARD PARK, NY (WIVB) - Even with a busy offseason, the Bills have some significant needs heading into this weekend's NFL Draft.  A big one was created with the trade of Jason Peters.  News 4 Sports breaks down the positions the team should focus on with their nine draft picks.

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Offensive Tackle

The trade of Peters creates a big hole at the line's most important position.  Team sources say the plan is to move right tackle Langston Walker over from his right tackle spot.  He played there in last season's training camp and opening game during Peters' holdout.  Can Walker handle it?  He's a strong run blocker, but is he quick enough to handle the NFL's speed rushers who line up across from the left tackle?  During Peter's holdout, even Walker admitted that he is much more comfortable on the right side.  The only other option would be a draft pick who steps in and starts.  Some, like the Browns Joe Thomas, have done it and been successful.  That would allow Walker to go back to the right side.  A rookie could start at RT, a much easier spot to break in.  Or the Bills could turn to Kirk Chambers, who has been the main backup to both tackle spots.  They like 2nd year player Demetrius Bell, a draft pick last year who was inactive for all 16 games.

Offensive Guard

The release of Derrick Dockery creates a void at right guard.  Chambers and Bell were candidates to start, but they may be needed at tackle.  The team did sign veteran Seth McKinney.  This could be a spot for a rookie to step right in, although that may depend on the left tackle resolution.  I doubt the Bills would want to start an all-rookie left side.  Starting right guard Brad Butler could move over. 

Defensive End

Aaron Schobel returns from his foot injury to bolster a weak pass rush.  Chris Kelsay and Ryan Denney return at the other end spot.  Don't forget about Chris Ellis, last year's third round pick who's rookie year was a washout.  But the chance to add a game-changing pass rusher at this spot, in a deep draft, makes this a priority need for the Bills.  There have been reports of the team shopping Kelsay, which would open up a spot. 

Tight End

The release of Robert Royal leaves only Derek Schouman and Derek Fine.  Another body is a must-get.  A downfield pass catcher would be a nice addition for Trent Edwards.  There are number of them available.  Schouman and Fine are adequate blockers, but neither is much of a speed threat.  The addition of Terrell Owens and the glut of receivers could lessen the pass-catching role of a tight end, but this team hasn't had a good one since Jay Riemersma.  Its about time they found one. 

Linebacker
 

Kawika Mitchell and Paul Posluszny are set at two of the three spots.  Keith Ellison returns as the third starter.  Rookie Alvin Bowen, who missed the season with a knee injury, is also in the mix.  An upgrade over Ellison would help, although the coaches do like Ellison's smarts and athletic ability.  They may not view OLB as a huge need.  There is very little depth at any of the linebacker spots, although John DiGiorgio returns from his injury.

Safety

It appears that Donte Whitner will move to free safety, with Bryan Scott starting at strong safety.  George Wilson and Ko Simpson are in reserve.  But another playmaker could be welcome addition, although it might not be a high priority.

Defensive Tackle

Marcus Stroud is set at one spot.  Kyle Williams also starts.  Spencer Johnson is one backup.  John McCargo is the other, although his spot on the roster has been tenuous.  Remember, the Bills traded him before the deal was negated due to McCargo's injured back.  A high draft pick, impact player could make a real difference.  But at the least, look for the Bills to add a backup player to push McCargo.

*Wide receiver, quarterback, running back and cornerback appear to be mostly set, with the top spots at each position already filled