The Buffalo Bills received a gift when Carolina and Denver both passed on defensive tackle Marcel Dareus. The Bills electing not to draft a quarterback is an indicator that they are happy with the production of Ryan Fitzpatrick, which was wise considering he threw for 3,000 yards with 23 touchdowns and just 15 interceptions in his first year as a starter in 2010. The Bills receive a grade of A - in their draft.
RD. 1, Marcel Dareus, Defensive Tackle, Alabama: The Bills' selection of Dareus is worthy of an A + grade. He can do it all along the defensive line in Buffalo's 3-4 front. He can line up at either the defensive end spot or play at the nose. Dareus lining up next to All-Pro Kyle Williams should present a formidable duo. Both are supreme run stuffers and get to the quarterback. Something tells me the Bills will no longer be the league's worst team against the run.
RD. 2, Aaron Williams, Cornerback, Texas: A great selection as Williams adds another quality defensive back to the Bills. Terrence McGee missed nearly half the season last year with a nerve issue in his knee so depth at corner was a must. Williams is a solid run defender in addition to his cover skills.
RD. 3, Kelvin Sheppard, Inside Linebacker, LSU: Sheppard adds depth and will have the opportunity to vie for a starting spot at inside linebacker. If Paul Posluszny can stay healthy, the addition of Sheppard will help the Bills improve their run defense.
Other Selections: RD. 4, Da'Norris Searcy, Strong Safety, North Carolina; RD. 4, Chris Hairston, Offensive Tackle, Clemson; RD. 5, Johnny White, Running Back, North Carolina, RD. 6, Chris White, Inside Linebacker, Mississippi State; RD. 7, Justin Rogers, Cornerback, Richmond; RD. 7, Michael Jasper, Offensive Guard, Bethel.
Fantasy Impact: The Bills defense should improve greatly, but don't expect them to have fantasy value yet. Ryan Fitzpatrick is clearly the quarterback in Buffalo and will be a fine bye-week replacement and QB2. He's worth drafting in the late rounds, especially in deeper leagues. The Bills did not draft a receiver so they are clearly happy with the production of Steve Johnson and Lee Evans. Their selection of running back Johnny White is just to provide depth. Remember, they parted ways with Marshawn Lynch last year. Expect Fred Jackson to continue to receive the most touches.
Bills 2011 Season Opener: The Bills open the 2011 season at the Kansas City Chiefs on Sep. 11.
