“Is it advisable for the Bills to select two wide receivers in the NFL Draft? Addressing key queries about draft strategy.”

We’re just over a week away from the 2024 NFL Draft, which holds significant anticipation for the Buffalo Bills compared to recent years. This week, we invited you to share your most pressing questions about the Bills, and you certainly didn’t disappoint.

Let’s dive right in where we expected to start: wide receiver.

Question 1: If a flurry of wide receivers are taken in the first round before the Bills’ pick, could we see General Manager Brandon Beane making a real-time trade for a veteran wide receiver to address the need? — Carson D.

While never ruling out Beane’s strategies, it seems less likely this time around. Unlike the situation in 2020 when the Bills acquired Stefon Diggs, circumstances have changed. Back then, Josh Allen was still establishing himself, and his contract was far more cap-friendly. Trading for a veteran now would not only mean sacrificing a potentially cost-controlled rookie deal but also eating into the team’s 2025 salary cap space. While the depth of this year’s receiver class could provide options, forcing a pick at No. 28 isn’t advisable.

Question 2: Are there any late-round receiver prospects who could warrant the Bills selecting two receivers in this draft? Could we find a hidden gem akin to Puka Nacua? — Chris M.

While finding another Nacua is improbable, taking advantage of the draft’s receiver depth by selecting two is wise. Players like Jalen McMillan, Luke McCaffrey, and Javon Baker offer versatility, while others such as Jacob Cowing, Ainias Smith, and Anthony Gould present their own strengths. Double-dipping in later rounds could alleviate the pressure for immediate impact.

Question 3: Considering the Bills’ existing investments in pass-catching options, is it wise to draft two receivers in the top rounds? — Andrew

Having invested in receivers like Stefon Diggs and Curtis Samuel, along with promising talents like Khalil Shakir and Dalton Kincaid, doubling down on top picks might create redundancy. Opting for one receiver in the early rounds and another in the later rounds spreads risk and ensures depth without overwhelming the roster.

Question 4: What’s the potential trade value of a package involving a first- and fourth-round pick this year and future picks? — Anthony W.

The trade value depends on various factors and the trade chart used by the teams involved. Using the Rich Hill trade value chart, the proposed package could potentially land the Bills around the 7th to 9th pick, offering a shot at a top-tier receiver.

Question 5: Is it realistic for the Bills to consider drafting a safety in the first round, given their emphasis on the center position? Can the Bills field a competitive defense with Taylor Rapp and Mike Edwards as starting safeties? — Tyler H.

While the Bills prioritize the center position, they won’t rule out a safety pick, especially if the right player fits their scheme. As for the defense, relying on Sean McDermott’s coaching and a potent offense led by Josh Allen could compensate for any defensive shortcomings, making offensive investments crucial for success in the upcoming season.

I’d argue that addressing the pass rush is just as crucial a need as adding to the wide receiver corps. We saw how ineffective the Bills were at getting to Patrick Mahomes or even disrupting him when it mattered most. So, how do you think the Bills plan to rectify this issue? Are they banking on Von Miller to deliver, even if he’s not at the peak of his career? Or will they look to the draft or free agency for pass rush solutions? — Tom A.

While edge rusher is indeed a requirement, the Bills seem to have some faith in Greg Rousseau potentially becoming their primary defensive end for the long haul. Brandon Beane’s response regarding Rousseau’s fifth-year option at the owners’ meetings was straightforward, indicating their confidence in him. Additionally, A.J. Epenesa is locked in for the next couple of years, providing some stability at the position. This might alleviate the immediate pressure to draft an edge rusher this year, although it remains an option if the draft board dictates it.

If they don’t address it in the first round, it’s unlikely that they would rely on a later pick to step in as a starting defensive end this season. Thus, it’s probable that the Bills will utilize their newly available $10-plus million in cap space, which opens up on June 1, to bolster the pass rush. This could be their best bet to fortify the team for 2024.

Could we see Brandon Beane opting for a Day 2 running back pick, given the renewed emphasis on the run game under Joe Brady’s leadership? It feels like the Bills could benefit from another option in the backfield.

With just one Day 2 pick and pressing needs at safety, defensive tackle, edge rusher, and interior offensive line, it’s likely that the running back need will be addressed on Day 3. However, the visit from Trey Benson suggests some level of interest. If the Bills manage to acquire another Day 2 pick, perhaps through a trade, the likelihood of selecting a running back early in the draft increases significantly.

What’s more probable: Beane trading up a few spots to secure his desired player or trading back with a familiar partner like the Carolina Panthers and making their first 2024 selection on Friday night?

Given Beane’s track record of trading up in the first round with the Bills, it’s safe to assume that’s the more likely scenario.